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| Scotland Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Girdleness Lighthouse, Boddam, Peterhead, Aberdeenshire 11 December 2006 Girdleness Lighthouse, Boddam, Peterhead, Aberdeenshire 11 December 2006 Stanley Bruce Untamed and beautiful, Scotland is located in northern Europe and is bounded by the North Sea, the Atlantic Ocean and England. Its almost the size of England, but most of its landmass is composed of moorlands, mountains and about 800 islands. Scotland was inhabited by hunter-gatherers around 6,000 years ago but by the 7th century, the region was a warring mix of Norse invaders, Scots, Picts, Beakers, Britons and Anglo-Saxons. Several wars were fought as the movement for Scottish independence from British supremacy gained momentum. The Industrial Revolution brought prosperity to the towns and cities, especially in the south, but the global depression of the 1930s struck a mortal blow to the country's economy. Edinburgh , with its romantic castle, set atop an extinct volcanic plug, is one of the best cities in Europe. Calton Hill, with various important monuments, and the massive rocky cliffs of Arthur's Seat and the Salisbury Crags, provide a scenic backdrop to the city. Two miles from the city centre is the historic port of Leith where you can visit The Royal Yacht Britannia. Nearby is Glasgow , has much to offer a discerning tourist. You can visit the Glasgow Cathedral, Burrell Collection, St Mungo's Museum of Religious Life and Art and the 15th-century Provand's Lordship or take a walk through the majestic structures of the 18th-century Merchant City. More recently sports historians have come to realise that Glasgow is the capital of world football, The world's first international was held here in 1872. Every country then adopted the 'Scotch Professors' passing and running style. The Scottish Football Museum at the National Stadium, Hampden Park has the world's best collection for all enthusiasts. Aberdeenshire known by some as 'The Great North East Corner' has a wonderful coastline with long stretches of beach, cliffs such as the 'Bullers of Buchan' and 'Troup Head' packed with birds such as gannets and puffins. Secluded fishing villages such as 'Pennan', 'Crovie', and Cruden Bay. Castles by the dozen some such as Fyvie and Hatton you can even stay in for your holidays. Then there is the fishing towns of Fraserburgh, Banff, Macduff and Peterhead full of friendly folk eager to have a chat, many of these communities have relatives all over the world; Canada, USA, Australia and New Zealand in particular. The heritage of the picts and earlier Druids is there to see with around 100 stone circles scattered around Grampian. Many things to see and do find out more in this site. The medieval town of St. Andrews was once the ecclesiastical capital of the country. However, golfing is its only religion today, with golfers from all over the world thronging the world's most famous golf course in the town. Another destination worth exploring is Aberdeen , a veritable symphony in granite. The bewitching Inner Hebrides, located on the country's western coast, is the perfect locale to round up your trip to Scotland. The highlands of Scotland are perfect for cycling while Aviemore, Glencoe, Nevis, Glenshee, The Lecht, and the Nevis Range are ideal for skiing. The Scottish Bens (Mountains) are also famous for an activity called Munro Bagging, for mountaineers it is well worth trying. You may also undertake a trip to the world famous Loch Ness for an encounter with Nessie, the monster. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: temperatures ___________Sights Edit This photo_2 Conor McBride [Add Sight] Barra Edit This photo_2 photo by: Conor McBride Barra is the southern most island in the Outer Hebrides in Scotland. It is the ancestral homeland of the MacNeil clan. It is about eight miles by six miles. At the south part of the island there is the small town, Castlebay. In the bay there lies a small island and on the island there is a castle. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] email: gskellig47@yahoo.com _________Getting Around Edit This The loch ness in Scotland. The loch ness in Scotland. Although there are several carriers doing domestic flights in Scotland it's hardly worth the price unless there's no other way to get to the islands. Haggis Backpackers bus service runs between Scotland's Youth Hostels as does Go Blue Banana. Citylink bus company (Scotland's major player) has a tourist pass which can be used on all their buses. Scotland's train routes are stunning but limited and expensive. Roads are generally good and far less busy than those in England. On back roads you may have only one lane and petrol stations may be few and far between (as well as extremely pricey). Boats run to most of the islands from Oban Mallaig and Ullapool or you can get a ferry from Aberdeen to Orkney or Shetland. :::::::::::Aberdeen Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Brig O' Balgownie, Aberdeen Built 1320 Brig O' Balgownie, Aberdeen Built 1320 Stanley Bruce (Bard O' Buchan) With a proud and fascinating history, the City of Aberdeen presents a modern cosmopolitan image to visitors who are often surprised by the many diverse attractions which the regional capital of Grampian Highlands offers. The motto of the city is 'Bon-accord' The city has long been famous for its outstanding parks, gardens and floral displays which greet the visitor - with around 2 million roses, 11 million daffodils and 3 million crocuses, it is not difficult to see why Aberdeen is known as the "Flower of Scotland". Indeed, the city's top attraction is the wonderful Winter Gardens at the Duthie Park which are currently free entry, and is also home to the stunning Rose Mountain. One can sense that there is a true feeling of civic pride here and in order to discover more about the city and its people it is worth visiting some of the city museums and galleries. Aberdeen is fortunate in having excellent museums and galleries in its compact city centre which are all within easy walking distance of each other: Provost Skene's House is the oldest surviving "town house" and can be considered an architectural gem in the heart of the city while close by, the Marischal Museum located in the magnificent granite edifice of Marischal College founded by the Earl Marischal from Peterhead paints a picture of North East life. Aberdeen's fortunes have long been associated with the sea and a visit to the re-developed Aberdeen Maritime Museum with its state of the art, hands-on exhibits is a must. This museum focuses on fishing, shipbuilding and the oil industry and is an ideal point to view the activities of one of Britain's busiest harbours, just a few yards from Union Street. Aberdeen has a flourishing cultural scene with excellent collections of Scottish and impressionist works and contemporary exhibitions at the Art Gallery on Schoolhill, and there are smaller galleries worth seeking out. As befits a cosmopolitan centre such as Aberdeen there is a packed programme of arts performances and entertainments throughout the year. Pick up a copy of "What's On" to find out who is appearing at His Majesty's Theatre, which concert is on at the Music Hall or which acts are at the Lemon Tree. To the north, at Bridge of Don, the Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre is the venue for major events and top name concerts. This is very much a "festival" city with events throughout the calendar ensuring a real buzz of activity. "Rootin' Aboot" is the spring celebration of roots and folk music, the International Youth Festival brings young performers from all over the world while the Alternative Festival in October is an eclectic mix of music, comedy and artistic performances. The Winter Festival is growing in stature and encompasses seasonal events and activities, bringing light and laughter to the darker months. North of the city centre, Old Aberdeen provides an oasis of tranquillity in contrast to the bustle of city life. Once quite a separate entity from the city that grew up close to the River Dee, Old Aberdeen is chiefly associated with the University of Aberdeen whose King's College, with its distinctive crown tower, is a central feature. The King's College Visitor Centre tells the story of the 500 year old University. The quarter is an outstanding conservation area and other attractions in this area include the University's Cruickshank Botanic Garden, St Machar's Cathedral (one of Aberdeen's three cathedrals) and Seaton Park with its walks which lead to the Brig O'Balgownie across the River Don. It's not hard to imagine why Robert the Bruce had this narrow bridge built in the 14th century so he and others could head north to the Earldom of Buchan to one of the towns such as Peterhead, Fraserburgh, Macduff, Turriff or Banff. It is difficult to imagine a similar sized city which caters so well for all the family. Satrosphere is a science and technology discovery centre where the emphasis is very much hands on the exhibits and then there are the attractions of Aberdeen Beach. The city's two miles of sands ensured status as a coastal resort but modern attractions have meant that the area has kept pace with modern tastes with Codona's Amusement Park boasting indoor and outdoor funfair attractions. There are bars, cafes, restaurants, a golf complex on the King's Links, Pittodrie Stadium - the home of Aberdeen Football Club, the Beach Leisure Centre with its pool and the Linx Ice Arena. Nearby a modern cinema complex and "Aberdeen Fun Beach", with its year-round facilities, form one of Scotland's premier leisure and entertainment districts. At the end of the Esplanade and at the entrance to the harbour is the community of Footdee, known locally as "Fittie". This community was a planned fishing village in the city and provides a vantage point for harbour activity, as well as a fascinating insight into what life was like before oil changed the face of Aberdeen immeasurably. There are of course many interesting places to visit on the outskirts of the city. Doonies Farm at Nigg is a working farm where every animal is a rare breed. Hazelhead Park is a popular family location with its aviary, pets corner, maze, riding centre and gardens. The Gordon Highlanders Museum has recently been refurbished and extended and highlights the proud heritage of Grampian's famous regiment and nearby Johnston Gardens is an exquisite little park. Just outside the city, Storybook Glen's fairytale figures will enchant smaller children and there are many walks and trails on the city's western side including the Old Deeside Line and the trails in Countesswells and Tyrebagger Forests, the latter with its unique sculpture trail. With its host of big name stores, speciality shops, indoor shopping centres and markets, Aberdeen is a Mecca for "shopaholics" and with Thursday late opening and Sunday shopping too, the visitor is spoiled for choice. This elegant granite city welcomes visitors whatever the time of year and the warmth of this welcome is reflected in the toast associated with the words "Bon Accord" on the city Coat of Arms - "Happy to meet, sorry to part, happy to meet again"... :::::::::::::Achiltibuie Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Achiltibuie view across Loch Broom Achiltibuie view across Loch Broom Rory Brown - www.achiltibuiecottages.wordpress.com Achiltibuie is a straggling village on the western coast of Scotland north of Ullapoolwhich supplies glorious views over the Summer Isles. There are trips to these islands at times in the summer season although only one is inhabited. The road is long and winding and the owners of lochs near the side do NOT welcome swimmers! It passes the feet of Cul Beag and Stac Pollaidh. Possibly even more scenic, with the most beautiful shoreline scenes is the narrow, twisting road from Lochinver, where all but the manic drive slowly! ::::::::::Arran Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Sailing to Ardrossan Sailing to Ardrossan Edward Giejgo Aran is on of Scotland's most southerly islands and is often said to be like 'Scotland in Miniature', presumably on the grounds that it is mountainous in the north. However this may be it is a lovely island with some glorious mountains and beaches. It is one of the islands easiest to reach from the south. http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/areaarra/index.html _________Getting Around Edit This x It's possible to explore the island by public transport although you will feel far more versatile with a car. Scroll down to 'Getting around' on http://www.travelrate.co.uk/sc/guide/argyll/arg_47.htm to see what services run and how to get timetables. ________Getting There Edit This There are two ferries from the mainland to Arran. The main one running the whole year is from Ardrossan, accessible by train from Glasgow to Brodick, the island's capital. In summer there is a ferry from Claonaigh to the far north of the island at Lochranza. Both are run by Calmac nad details may be found on hteir website. http://www.calmac.co.uk/arran _______Things to do Edit This Arran provides some excellent mountain walks. Goat Fell, its highest mountain is the favourite but this is also reflected by the muddiness of the route. If you only have time for one walk you would do far better to do a circular [sort of!] route from Sannox Bay with the magically shapely Cir Mhor as your focus going up the ridge on your south side and back over the one to the north. This is quite a long hard walk but the scenery is outstanding. ::::Brodick Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo This is the largest town of Arran. There is a ferry connection to Ardrossan (Scotland mainland). Brodick is build in a lovely bay and has many placed worth visiting. The Walled Garden at Brodick Castle, built in 1710, is a great place to walk around. It has many varieties of exotic plants & very large trees. :::::::::Lochranza Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Lochranza Lochranza Simon S This is a very small village at the far north of the island with a Youth Hostel [see http://www.syha.org.uk/syha/Web/Site/Hostels/Lochranza.asp] and a ferry in summer to Claonaigh on the mainland. [see Getting there for Calmac site]. :::::: Ayr Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Burns Memorial , Ayr Burns Memorial , Ayr Stanley Bruce (Bard o' the Broch) Holiday town within easy reach of Glasgow, about a 30 minute drive south. Places to visit include Burns Heritage Park, the Heads of Ayr Farm Park, Culzean Castle, Ayr races, Burns Batchelor club, and Johnnie Soutar's Cottage. ________Sights Edit This Culzean Castle July 2006 Culzean Castle July 2006 Stanley Bruce (Bard o' the Broch) Ayr is famous for her association with Rabbie Burns who was born here. So all around the town you'll see pubs and shops with photos of the great Burns. Rabbie even has his own heritage park which a visit to is a must for any of his fans. Contributors July 23, 2006 new by bardofthebroch (1 point) [Add Sight] Burns Heritage Park Edit This Brig O' Doon, Ayr Brig O' Doon, Ayr photo by: Stanley Bruce (Bard o' the Broch) Situated on the southern outskirts of Ayr is the park dedicated to Rabbie Burns, included in the park is 'The Tam o' Shanter experience', 'Burns cottage', the 'Rabbie Burns memorial' and statues of 'Rabbie Burns', 'Tam o' Shanter', 'Soutar Johnnnie' and Rabbie's wife 'Jean'. Ajacent to the park is the 'Brig o' Doon', this brig is where Tam o' Shanter famously rode across the brig to escape the witches and the witch with the 'Cutty Sark' pulled the tail from his horse. type: Parks, Gardens and Zoos World66 rating: [rate it] Culzean Castle Edit This Culzean Castle July 2006 Culzean Castle July 2006 photo by: Stanley Bruce (Bard o' the Broch) Wonderful castle with delightful gardens and a massive country park. If in the area a visit to the castle is a must. Owned by the National Trust for Scotland, who now own around 300 properties in Scotland, join the Trust and your membership allows free entry to as many of them as you like as many times as you like, even if you're just in Scotland for a week it is worth joining and being a member allows free entry to some locations in England too. type: Castles World66 rating: [rate it] ::::::::::Banff Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Duff House Mansion, National Art Gallery, Banff Duff House Mansion, National Art Gallery, Banff Stanley Bruce (Bard of Banff) The name Banff is thought to come from Scottish Gaelic meaning ‘Young Pig’ or from a stream called ‘Pigs Burn’. The town started off as a port in the 10th century and became a royal centre at the end of the 12th century. The town was created a royal burgh in 1372. It has many 17th and 18th century buildings castle and town houses built and once owned by local lairds, prosperous tradesmen and merchants. Duff House mansion is open to visitors and houses many wonderful works of art owned by the nationl galleries, set in grounds with fantastic woodland walks to the most amazing scenic spot the 'Bridge of Alvah', see also www.banff-macduff.com 'out and about' photos. Fantastic beach, free museum in the high street, nice harbour with boat trips along the Moray Firth. Across the bridge eastward and you are in Macduff. ::::::::Barra Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i Barra is the southern most island in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. It is the ancestral homeland of the MacNeil clan. It is about eight miles by six miles. At the south part of the island there is the small town, Castlebay. In the bay there lies a small island and on the island there is a castle. The Island of Beneray shown is only one of the many islands in the Barra group. The highest mountain on the island of Barra is Ben Heaval or Mount Heaval, 1200 ft. elevation. It is a moderately difficult climb and offers a spectacular 360 degree view of the Atlantic ocean, The Minch (body of water separating the Outer Hebrides from on the Inner Hebrides and the mainland of Scotland) and the Barra group of islands. :::::Callander Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Callander / River Teith Callander / River Teith Detlef vom Hofe Callander is one of the two main towns in The Trossachs area (the other one being Abefoyle). The Trossachs area is known for its lakes, Sir Walter Scott who wrote about it and .... Rob Roy. This is his country and decide for yourself in Callandar's visitors centre (together with a lot of other travellers) whether Rob Roy MacGregor was a vicious villain or a noble hero. ::::::Cruden Bay Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Slains castle as viewed from Cruden Bay Slains castle as viewed from Cruden Bay Stanley Bruce (Bard o' Buchan) Cruden Bay was originally known as ‘Ward of Crudane’ and the name was derived from ‘Slaughter of the Danes’. A great battle took place here in 1012 where King Malcolm II of Scotland ’s army defeated the army of King Canute of Denmark . After the battle the Scot’s and the Danes jointly built a kirk near the beach where the dead invaders were buried. The kirk was dedicated to St Olaf the patron saint of Denmark and Norway , and King Canute agreed not to attack Scotland ever again, which he reneged upon when he attacked Fife in 1031. The baptismal font from the original church (1012 A.D.) was brought to the nearby St James church on Chapel Hill in the 1960’s where it exists to this day. King Canute later became king of England (1014), king of Denmark (1018), and king of Norway (1030). The village was renamed Port Erroll when the Earl of Erroll funded the building of the new harbour 1875 to 1880’s. The name was then changed again in 1924 to Cruden Bay . There was a RNLI lifeboat station here from 1876 to 1921, three lifeboats were used during this period. ‘The Ladies Bridge ’ was built from wood and was funded by a local group of ladies in 1922 hence the name. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: Bard O' Buchan Vol 1 by Stanley Bruce ISBN 0-9547960-2-0 ___________History Edit This St James Church, Cruden Bay 17 Nov 2005. St James Church, Cruden Bay 17 Nov 2005. Stanley Bruce (Bard o' Buchan) Events in Cruden Bay date back to 1012 when King Malcolm of Scotland defeated a Danish invasion by King Canute. The name Cruden Bay is actually derived from this battle as 'Slaughter of the Danes'. After the battle a church dedicated to St Olaf was built near the beach by the Scots and the Danes, and churches dedicated to St Olaf still exist today. The original baptismal font from the 1012 church is kept in St James Church, to the south of the village. ::::::Cullen Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see The Three Kings, Cullen Beach 4 Feb 2006 The Three Kings, Cullen Beach 4 Feb 2006 Stanley Bruce The village of Cullen was established around 1189 beside Cullen House and the first known church was built in 1236, this church still stands and is the finest mediaeval church in Banffshire. During the herring boom the seatown was built and the residents moved from the old town at the same time the harbour was developed (around 1819 – 1820). The now unused railway viaduct towers above the seatown and from the top spectacular views can be had. You can often see dolphins jumping in the bay. A fish soup made from smoked haddock potatoes and onions called ‘Cullen Skink’ is the town’s claim to fame. There is a nice walk heading west along the beach and golf course and onwards along the cliffs and caves to Portnockie. Cullen is a quiet peaceful place with very little nightlife other than a couple of pubs, so don’t go there if you want to live it up. There is a good little ice cream shop on the main street ( Seafield Street ) one of Scotland ’s finest for home made ice cream. ____________Beaches Edit This There is a fine beach at Cullen, it is dominated by three large rocks known as 'The Three Kings'. To the east of the town there is another beautiful secluded beach known as 'Sunnyside Beach' a little further east and you will find the ruin of Findlater Castle once an oustanding stronghold, but now in a ruinous state. ______Things to do Edit This Cullen golf club founded in 1870 is located at the beach and is popular with the locals and visitors. Contributors February 11, 2007 new by bardofthebroch (2 points) [Add Activity] Cullen Golf Club Edit This Situated at the west end of the town the Cullen Golf Club is popular with locals and tourists. It was founded in 1870 and from the greens spectacular views of the Moray Firth are to be had. type: Golf World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 01542 840685 url: www.cullengolfclub.co.uk :::::::::::Culross Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see This little village on the north bank of the Firth of Forth is a connoiseur's piece.It is quite near the shipyard area of Rosyth and there is nothing to suggest in advance the delight of this place. Nearly all the houses are old and the most historic places are all owned by the National Trust for Scotland. If you are staying at Edinburgh for more than a couple of days, make sure you get to Culross - you won't be disappointed. http://www.culross.org/index.html ::::::::::Dundee Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i There are many well known cities in Scotland that offer many exciting cultural attractions, and Dundee is not one of them; not 'well known', that is, but 'cultural attractions' it does have. Being that Dundee has been consistently voted one of the top ten cities in Britain for quality of life probably hints to why it is now the choice of most Edinburgh professionals looking for a hometown without the price tag of said 'Edinburgh'. Still, with growing popularity Dundee remains a lesser known city, good or bad. So what does Dundee offer? (Don't ask too many non-Dundonian Scots, they don't seem to know.) You will find a beautiful and proud city centered around an old town midway between the Mouth of the River Tay (longest in Britian) and the unusual dormant Volcano that towers over everything and lends itself to being the centerpoint of Dundee. The views are magnificent and stretch for miles on a clear day. Historically, Dundee was known for its Jute, Jam and Journalism. (Think of backs of carpets, Marmalade and, well, journalism. ) Nowadays, they don't really exist except the converted old mills and the odd museum giving you a good-old-days story. Today, they have been replaced by the industrial strength Universities, Research Centers, Hospital Training Grounds, Art school and pubs that service those who attend. The student population is very international and creates quite a sub-culture itself. Culturally, you can hit the Seaside fare of Broughty Ferry Castle (plenty more Castles on the outskirts) and venture aboard the Century old ship 'Discovery' that carried Captain Scott to the Arctic, or was it the Antarctic; anyway, it was a magnetic pole! Or, you can time your trip to coincide with one of the growing mini-festivals like the Guitar Festival sometime in the Summer. If that's not enough, the Indio-Pakistani-Chinese community have plenty food restaurants. Cafe's abound. And, no town is complete without endless pubs and bars, European style. To sum, Dundee is a great place to live but doesn't really boast of touristy stuff. There is much to shop, see, eat and learn but its just not made easy for the tourist. You have to go get it yourself, which for people who want to escape spoon-fed culture, its just perfect! Guide to Dundee Dundee is a compact city with wonderful views over the Tay Estuary. I think it is ideal as a short break destination as there are the attractions of the city; a choice of shops restaurants and cafes plus visiting the Discovery, the Verdant Works, an award winning industrial heritage museum and a beautiful sandy beach at adjacent Broughty Ferry. Dundee's location at the mouth of the River Tay has shaped much of its history. Dundee is documented as being a trading port from the 12th century. There were imports of wine, grain and later wool and linen. Dundee was the port for many whaling ships. Dundee was already established as a textile manufacturing centre wit the weaving of linen and sail cloth, when a new innovative jute spinning process was developed there in 1833. Dundee then became the centre of jute production and earned the nickname of "Juteopolis". However the industry slid into decline in the 1920s. Two thousand ships were built in Dundee between 1871 and 1881. The Discovery, which was used to transport Scott's ill fated expedition to the South Pole was built in Dundee in 1901. The Fleming Investment Trust company was started in Dundee in 1873, by Robert Fleming a jute baron when he started to invest in the growing US economy. His grandson was Ian Fleming, author of the James Bond books. In June 1878 the Tay Rail Bridge opened to great acclaim, it was the longest bridge in the world. It reduced the journey time from Dundee to London by 5 hours and was used by Queen Victoria to reach her Highland retreat, Balmoral Castle. However the bridge collapsed during a severe storm in December 1879, with the loss of 75 train passengers. The bridge was rebuilt opening in 1887 using some of the original bridges girders. You can still see the stumps of the former bridges piers running alongside the current rail bridge. The Tay Road Bridge was opened in 1966, after a three and a half year construction period. I have a vague recollection of there being constant banging noises during the construction. Dundee certainly suffered from the demise of its traditional industries which led to high unemployment and poverty. However I feel that the city really has picked itself up over the last couple of decades. I was born in Dundee but only lived there until I was five years old. Over recent years when I have visited the city I have witnessed many improvements. The city centre has been greatly improved, more attractions have been opened. Dundee is now a world class centre for biomedical research. Real Time Worlds, the developer of the computer games, Lemming and Grand Theft Auto is based in Dundee. It is also emerging as one of Scotland leading retail centres. The ship Discovery is probably the jewel in the crown of the reborn Dundee. The ship and the visitor centre give you an insight into Scott's Expedition in his race to beat Amundsen to the South Pole. If you are interested in ships, the Frigate Unicorn and the Lightship North Carr are located at the Victoria Docks only few minutes along a riverfront walk way from the Discovery. The Unicorn is a 46 gun wooden warship, built in 1824 and the oldest British built warship still afloat. The City Quay shopping centre is at the other side of the dock. Sensation is a hands on science museum with over 80 interactive exhibits. It is very popular with families and as offers fun education about science. The Verdant Works is a former European Industrial Museum of the Year winner, telling the story of the jute industry in Dundee. There is a film show, computer displays and original machinery to help you recapture the past. Mills Observatory, tel 01382 435967, is the only full time public observatory in the UK. The main telescope, a Victorian 10" Cooke Refractor was manufactured in 1871 but is still going strong. There are regular talks and displays. St Mary's Tower, know locally as the "Old Steeple",; is the highest existing medieval tower in the UK. It stands at 488 metres, and has 232 steps. It is the oldest surviving building in Dundee. To me the photo on the left of the five bronze penguins illustrates the new Dundee, fun and combining the old and the new. The sculptures were unveiled in 2005 as part of a public art programme. The penguins are heading in the direction of the Discovery, maybe hoping for a ride back to the south Pole! The Dundee Contemporary Arts Centre encompasses a cinema, exhibitions, events and talks. There is Dundee Rep Theatre which is home to the Scottish Dance Theatre, The Rep company is on the road in 2007 performing the new highly acclaimed "Sunshine on Leith" musical with music from the Scottish twins, The Proclaimers. The music scene in Dundee is pretty lively and the UK band tipped to become big in 2007 are the Dundee based "The View". Their debut album went straight to number one in the album charts. View of Broughty Ferry from the castle Broughty Ferry is a seaside town now part of Dundee. Broughty Ferry Castle was built in 1496, rebuilt in the 1860s, now houses a museum. The castle sits beside the long golden beach. Broughty Ferry was used as the northern port for passengers travelling north by rail before the first Tay Rail Bridge was constructed. It was home to the mansions built by the jute barons, away from the industrial city. It was known as "The Brighton of Scotland" as it was a popular seaside resort for day trips and holidays before the advent of package holidays to warmer climes. Monifieth is located a couple of miles east of Broughty Ferry in the country of Angus There are several sculptures by the beach. My favourite is the dolphin bench. There's a set of six embellished standing stones and four carved wooden sea birds. There are great kids adventure playground close by, so it's an ideal location for a family outing. ::::::::::Durness, Sutherland Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see x Cennabeinne beach Marina Premoli Durness is as far north-west as you can get by car and there is a bit of accommodation there including a camp site. There are good views of the Orkneys, though it can well follow the old adage: if you can't see them, it's raining; if you can, it's going to rain. There's so little to say about the village as such that the two nearest trips which make it a place to stay may as well come on this page. The first is a walk to Faraidh Head where families of eider ducks appear at the rght season, mothers leading their ducklings through the heavy swell. On the rocks near the headland itself you can look down well below the water at seals playing, though in really bad weather conditions you may well prefer not to see them being battered. For the second trip to Cape Wrath, the most northwesterly point in Scotland, you have to take a passenger ferry across an nlet of the sea to connect with a minibus. There is no alternative route to Cape Wrath, unless you are into long walks, as the road taken to the lighthouse does not connect with any other. On the way to the lighthouse the driver will advise on the best point to get off to see the nesting auks, including puffins. If there are children in the party, considerable caution is required as the cliffs are precipitous. __________________Sights Edit This Smoo Cave, just a 5-10 minute walk from the centre of Durness is an amazing experience. The cave itself houses an 80 foot underground water fall that is apparently an amazing sight (although it rained heavily when i was there and approaching the view point was like walking into a power shower) with a defening noise. The estuary of the cave provides a most stunning view comparable to images of unspoilt New Zealand. Also the path to the right of the cave going up to the headland, although slightly dangerous in one partciular place provides more incredible scenery. If you like peace and quite in a beautiful and remote setting, and don't mind too much about the weather i'd reccomend this place out of season. Don't expect too much snow though as the salinity of the North Atlantic means you genrally have to venture further in land for the white stuff. ______Day Trips Edit This Handa Island, a bird sanctuary [no dogs admitted] can be visited on a day trip from Durness or Lochinver or on the way up or down. It is accessed by a passenger ferry from Scourie which is just off A894 [reached by the A838 going southwest from Durness. In the nesting season you can expect to see masses of gulls, terns, fulmars, cormorants, auks and skuas. For the last named and some of the terns you would be well advised to have some form of head protection! Near the café on the mainland side of the ferry you can get meals or delicious light bites. _______Beaches Edit This About 15 miles from Durness is Sandwood Bay. Probably the most beautifull unspoilt beach in Britian backed by large sand dunes. Also a gorgeous inland loch is only seperated from the sea by a small strip of beach. It is however a 4 mile walk from the nearest village Blairmore. Although this walk makes the view when you get there even more satisfying. Make sure you allow 1 hour to walk back before the sun goes down though or you might end up have to stay the night. :::::::::Edinburgh Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Portobello on a good day Portobello on a good day D.K.Kerr The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is one of the world's greatest cities. The extraordinary architectural heritage and historical magnificence of Edinburgh soon charm the visitor. Edinburgh is a center of culture and one of Europe's most handsome cities. The beauty of its setting and its predominantly stone buildings, allied with its intellectual traditions have earned it the title of 'Athens of the North'. The city lies on rising ground, from the sea on the north side to hills on the south. The Old Town was developed from the 11th century, originally within defensive walls, around the rock on whose peak is situated the famed Edinburgh Castle. From the late 18th century, the City expanded to the north through a planned series of fine neo-classical streets and squares, which make up the New Town. Further expansion followed in the 19th & 20th centuries, and Edinburgh retains a rich architectural heritage within what is still a compact city of some 500,000 people. It is also a city of fine gardens, and open spaces including Holyrood Park - with the twin peaks of Arthur's Seat and Salisbury Crags - one of the largest city centre natural parks in Europe, and Princes Street Gardens, between the Old and New Towns. For the world of business, Edinburgh is a leading European financial and commercial centre, with a particularly important place in banking and insurance. The strength of its educational and scientific provision has also helped central Scotland to develop the new 'knowledge-based industries' of Silicon Glen. The statue of Grey Friars Bobby made from Peterhead granite stands proudly in the old town, now being made into a film to be seen all over the world. ::::::::Elgin Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Elgin Cathedral Elgin Cathedral Stanley (Bard of Banff) Elegant city in Moray with ruins of magnificent medieval Cathedral (HS), the 'Lantern of the North'. Visit Elgin Museum, Moray Motor Museum, the Cashmere Visitor Centre, Spynie Palace (HS), Duffus Castle (HS), the unique Biblical Garden, scant remains of Egin Castle and the mighty Duke of Gordons column. Millbuies Country Park and medieval Pluscarden Abbey are nearby. Small aviary, boating pond, bowling, fishing, gliding, golf, indoor sports, nature trail, pitch and putt, squash, leisure centre, tennis, walking, wayfaring courses, trampolines, skateboarding, putting. Tourist Information Centre, 17 High Street. (01343) 542666. Open all year. Bureau de Change. Lossiemouth on the Moray Firth coast only 5 miles north is also worth a visit to her Fisheries Museum and her wonderful golden beach. HS = Historic Scotland __________Sights Edit This Spynie Palace, Elgin, Moray, Scotland, 1 April 2006 Spynie Palace, Elgin, Moray, Scotland, 1 April 2006 Stanley Bruce Spynie Palace dating from the 13th century lies a couple of miles north of Elgin on the Lossiemouth road. The castle is currently in the care of Historic Scotland and is open for visitors (for a small fee). The palace has been home to many of the bishops of Moray over the centuries. Contributors April 01, 2006 new by bardofthebroch [Add Sight] Elgin Cathedral Edit This Elgin Cathedral 1 April 2006 Elgin Cathedral 1 April 2006 photo by: Stanley Bruce In the care of Historic Scotland is this wonderful but ruined cathedral built in the 13th century. Situated in the heart of Elgin the cathedral is a major landmark in the city. Climb to the top of the tower and get great views all around the city. Large pict symbol stone stands proudly in the main body of the cathedral. type: Churches and Cathedrals World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk ::::::::::::Ellon Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Ellon Castle Ellon Castle Stanley Bruce Ellon; once the seat of the Earls of Buchan, sits on the banks of the Ythan river in the heart of Aberdeenshire. Not so much known for tourism, but is ideally situated if you want to explore Aberdeenshire, only 15 minutes from the city of Aberdeen and about 30mins from the Moray Firth coast. Ellon has two castles, the ancient one and the relatively new one, unfortunately none of these are open to the public but you can still have a peek through the gates or over the wall. Nearby we have Haddo House which is run by the National Trust for Scotland and is open to the public and well worth a visit. Also nearby are the 'Pitmedden Gardens' also owned by the National Trust for Scotland so these too are open to the public. There is a third castle near Ellon and that is Esselmont Castle which is now a ruin, you can see it quite easily because it stands at the side of the road to Udny. The Ythan river meanders eastwards to the sea and does so at Newburgh about 10 minutes from Ellon and here you can explore the wonderful 'Sands of Forvie' reknown for the bird sanctuary and the ancient kirk. :::::::::::Fochabers Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Milnes Institute Fochabers Milnes Institute Fochabers Stanley Bruce On the main through fare between Aberdeen and Inverness is Fochabers and what a wonderful place. Home to the maker of world class haggis, the village stands aside the Spey river which boasts some of the best salmon fishing in Scotland. Baxters the purveyor of some of Scotland's finest foods was founded here and today still has a large factory here with a very large visitors centre which includes a replica of their first shop. On the main street there is a fantastic folk museum with literally thousands of exhibits. The Gordon's founded the village and Gordon Castle proudly stands on the outskirts of the village. Christies garden centre on the east end of the village is one of the finest in the area. A walk around the lake in the castle grounds is relaxing. Milnes Institute is probably the finest school building architecturaly speaking in the whole of Scotland and what a picture it makes at night - absolutely amazing! Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: Stanley Bruce ::::::::Forres Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Flower sculpture, Forres, 1-7-2006 Flower sculpture, Forres, 1-7-2006 Stanley Bruce (Bard o' the Broch) Situated in the heart of Moray this charming town, with its High Street full of character and historic buildings complimented by the wonderful gardens in Grant Park is one not to miss if visiting Scotland. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: Stanley Bruce _________Sights Edit This Nelson's Tower, Forres, Scotland 1-7-06 Nelson's Tower, Forres, Scotland 1-7-06 Andrew Bruce (13) Nelson's Tower high on a hill to the south of Forres was erected in 1806 to commemorate Admiral Lord Nelson and his victory at Trafalgar. The tower has been recently refurbished and free access is now given. From the top magnificent views of the area can be had, you can easily see the town of Forres, Findhorn Bay and the Moray Firth. Inside the tower there is three separate rooms and within these are old photographs of the area and lots of information about Nelson and Trafalgar. Opening Hours, May to September - 2.00pm - 4.00pm. Closed Mondays. :::::::::::Fort William Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i This is a fair sized town by the standards of north Scotland and it is probably easier to find somewhere to stay here without planing than anywhere else around. The town is basically a hiking/mountaineering/outdoor sports centred town, with plenty shops catering for anyone of your desires in those fields. It is the start (or end, depending on the direction on takes) to several well known multiple day hikes, such as the West Highland Way (Glasgow-Fort William, 5-7days going through the wildest parts of scotland) or the Great Glen Way (Fort William-Inverness, 4-6days going past the largest lochs(lakes) in scotland) Or for shorter jurneys there are plenty hills around with varying slopes and distances, including the famous Ben Nevis (the highest in the United Kingdom), which takes normally 4hours to get up to the top and bit less to get down (it is a easy climb, but dangerous as it gets very cold and misty and windy at the top, get a map and a compass before attempting to go up), but if you want something less energetic, you could always have a boat trip on Loch Linnhe. ::::::::Foyers, Loch Ness Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see foyers House - Loch Ness foyers House - Loch Ness Neil Innumerable cars pass by Loch Ness on the main road from Fort William or Kyle of Lochalsh to Inverness. If it's Nessie, the Loch Ness monster, that is your main fascination, this is certainly the best route as there are two monster exhibition centres at Drumnadrochit which lies on your way. However, if you fancy a break from heavy traffic and some delightful [rather than glorious] scenery, you would be well advised to travel on the other side of the loch [SE.] The one-shop village of Foyers will de reached very soon from Fort Augustus at the SW end of the loch. Leave your car at the parking place near the loch and enjoy the walk down by the splendid waterfalls [hardly Victoria or Niagara but quite delightful] to the lower village. This is safe for children with minimum control. :::::::::::Fraserburgh Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Fraserburgh Town Hall Fraserburgh Town Hall Stanley Bruce (Bard o' the Broch) Situated on the north east corner of Scotland is Fraserburgh, known locally as 'The Broch'. Fraserburgh is one of Scotland's major fishing ports and her harbour is well stocked with a large selection of fishing boats. An abundance of wildlife can also be seen around the harbour such as seals, cormorants and seagulls, a minke whale even paid the harbour a visit in 2007. The award winning Scottish Lighthouse Museum is located here which includes the lighthouse on Kinnaird Castle the first ever lighthouse to be built on the Scottish mainland. Even more interesting is the Fraserburgh Heritage Centre which is sited adjacent to the lighthouse museum. Visit the heritage centre and find out all about famous Brochers such as Thomas Blake Glover the founder of the Nagasaki shipyard which went on to become Mitsubishi, Glover is recognised in Japan as one of the founders of modern day Japan, he was the first non-Japanese to be awarded the medal - 'The Order of the Rising Sun'. Marconi the inventor conducted experiments from the Broch find out much more in the Heritage Centre, don't miss it if you go to the Broch! The Broch is also known for its wonderful golden sand beach which stretches southwards for about three mile. ::::::::::Fyvie Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Angel, Fyvie Church Angel, Fyvie Church Stanley Bruce (Bard o' Buchan) Fyvie is situated in the heart of Aberdeenshire and is home to one of the finest baronial castles in Scotland. It's a great place to be sited if you wish to explore Aberdeenshire. The village is a quiet peaceful place, so don't come here if you're expecting any exciting nightlife. Fyvie Castle is currently owned by the National Trust for Scotland see www.nts.org.uk for more information. Peaceful fishing in Seggat pond about two mile north of Fyvie on the A947 is also available. A brand new golf course has been built just south of the village and being in the heart of Aberdeenshire you are ideally placed for day trips south to Aberdeen north to Turriff, Banff and Macduff , north east to Fraserburgh or Peterhead west to the distilleries in Speyside, or south west to the Garioch and the north east's favourite peak; Bennachie. If you're interested in castles then purchase an annual ticket from the National Trust for Scotland and you can access as many as you like and there are plenty to see within 30 minutes to 1 hour from Fyvie. ::::::::::Gardenstown Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see St Johns Kirk, Gardenstown the first kirk was built here in 1004 when St John held off a Danish Viking invasion. St Johns Kirk, Gardenstown the first kirk was built here in 1004 when St John held off a Danish Viking invasion. Stanley Bruce (Bard O' Buchan) Gardenstown is a fishing settlement, on the north Aberdeenshire coast. Great views of cliffs and the Moray Firth from here. There is a footpath to the east which takes you to the wonderful fishing village of Crovie (Pronounced Crivie), Crovie has no roads only a small path between the houses and the sea. The houses are gable end to the sea and generally painted this was the fashion when built in the early 19th century to give some protection from the sea in rough weather. To the west of Gardenstown there is a beach and a path which takes you up the cliff to the site of St John's church, there has been a church at this spot for over 1,000 years. Gardenstown is a small place but does have a Hotel / pub, a couple of cafes and an art shop. _________History Edit This Gardenstown, Aberdeenshire 2005 Gardenstown, Aberdeenshire 2005 Stanley Bruce (Bard o' Buchan) Gardenstown (Locally known as Gamrie) – fishing village on the north shore of Buchan founded in 1720 by Francis Garden of Troup. The village clings to the steep hillside above Gamrie Bay. To the west of the village in a prominent position stands the ruined chapel built in 1513 which stands on the site of a much earlier church dedicated to St John built to commemorate the Scot's victory over invading Danes in 1004; and to the east we have the fishing village of Crovie now a conservation area. _______Beaches Edit This Gardenstoen Bay Beach 19 Feb 2006 Gardenstoen Bay Beach 19 Feb 2006 Stanley Bruce To the west of Gardenstown there is a nice sandy beach and to the east heading to Crovie there is a shingle beach. Contributors February 19, 2006 new by bardofthebroch [Add Beach] Gardenstown Beach Edit This Gardenstoen Bay Beach 19 Feb 2006 Gardenstoen Bay Beach 19 Feb 2006 photo by: Stanley Bruce To the west of Gardenstown there is a nice sandy beach with a path up the cliffs to the ruined church of St John founded in 1004. World66 rating: [rate it] ___________Things to do Edit This Crovie and Troup Head from the west Crovie and Troup Head from the west Stanley Bruce (Bard o' Buchan) This is a very scenic part of Scotland with cliffs eastwards to Rosehearty and westwards to Macduff, there are many secluded beaches between the cliffs, a special area for people looking for peace and quiet, great for painters and photographers, bird watching is becoming more popular with RSPB opening a sanctuary at nearby Troup Head. (Stan Bruce 21 Jan 2006) [Add Activity] Birdwatching Edit This Gannet 2005 Gannet 2005 photo by: Stanley Bruce Neary Troup Head has been purchased by the RSPB (Royal Society for Protection of Birds) at this location you can see a wide range of sea birds including Gannets, Puffins, Gullimots, Razorbills and just about every type of seagull you can imagine. It's a great place to see birds in their natural habitat, particularly the breeding Gannets currently 1300 pairs. But be aware these cliffs are dangerous not a place for small children. (Stan Bruce 21 Jan 2006) type: Other World66 rating: [rate it] ::::::::::Glasgow Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Buchanan Street Peacock Buchanan Street Peacock David Punter Glasgow is one of the largest cities in Britain, the third most visited city after London and Edinburgh (by tourists) and probably the friendliest city in the UK, thanks mainly to the warmth, vibrancy and energy of its inhabitants. Once "The second biggest city of the British Empire" and in the forefront of the industrial revolution, the city has undergone a transformation and rejuvenation bringing it into the 21st century, while still maintaining its history. It was the European City of Culture in 1991. Glasgow's carefully preserved Victorian architecture is the largest collection of its kind in the UK and is among the finest you will ever see and has earned the city the honour through 1999 as being the UK City of Architecture and Design. You will find yourself looking upwards and admiring the architecture in the first couple of days of your visit to Glasgow. No trip to Glasgow would be complete without paying a visit to some of its priceless art collections which contain pieces from all over the world. Indeed the City's Kelvingrove (closed until 2006 for restoration, but much of the collection is still available for viewing in a city centre museum) is currently host to the world famous Dead Sea Scrolls and expects to receive over 2 million visitors in the coming months. Glencoe Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Glencoe Glencoe wojsyl There is a village at Glencoe with two hotels , a youth hostel and a private bunkhouse. However the name also covers the immediate area around the village and, in particular, the excellent mountain chains on each side of the road. Historically Glencoe is known for the terrible and treacherous massacre of the MacDonald clan but any horrors associated with this are soon banished by the views from the tops, povided it is not misty. As you approach Glencoe from the south, the pinnacle ridge to the right of the road is Aonach Eagach. It is one of the best on the mainland but the potential falls really are prodigious so don't take anybody suffering vertigo. The lovely peaks to the left, leading to Bidean nam Bhean also have an unenviable accident record, though there are many good walks here in reasonable weather. Nearest the road are the 'three sisters of Glencoe.' Find your way to the delectable 'Lost Valley,' where the MacDonalds used to keep rustled cattle. If you bypass the village on the A82 you will reach a good information centre. If you are heading for anywhere in the north of Scotland, although it may be much quicker by the A9, you really should try to travel on the A82 from Fort William to Tyndrum in one direction for the glorious scenery. At the top end of the Glen you'll find one of the best hikes in the area that will take you up Buchille Etive Mor, a mountain that just peaks at over 3000ft. Locally known as The Buchille, its an easy 3 hour hike & from the summit you get glorious views of Rannoch moor, Ben Nevis (the UKs highest mountain), & Glen Etive. Most people start their Hike from the Kings House Hotel which is one of Scotlands oldest Inns & home to a number of Scottish climbing clubs. ::::::::::Handa Island Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Northwest side of Handa Northwest side of Handa Mari B Handa, an island off the coast of Sutherland, is formed of Torridonian sandstone and is covered in practically all types of seabirds in the nesting season. It is administered by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. There are regular boat trips from Tarbet, near Scourie, just off the coastal route from Ullapool to Durness, Sutherland The ferocity of the skuas at times makes it advisable to have your head covered but the wildlife and the scenery make it a delectable trip. ::::::::::: Inverewe Gardens Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Inverewe Gardens might not normally be regarded as a region but it cannot be less like a city! It is not near any town of any size but is between Gairloch and Ullapool beyond the end of beautiful Loch Maree. It should be included in any tour of northwest Scotland if you have the slightest interest in gardens or plants. Inverewe was conceived and started by Osgood Mackenzie in 1863 and has been owned by the national trust for Scotland since 1953. The gardens occupy a peninsula near Poolewe. If you had read nothing about them, you might well be astonished to find tropical plants so far north but Mackenzie must have appreciated the influence of the Gulf Stream. :::::::::Inverness Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Inverness castle Inverness castle Mirjana Zarnec Inverness is only City in the Scottish Highlands and is located some 160 miles north of Edinburgh. Inverness City Centre is dominated by Inverness Castle and the River Ness and is small enough to be explored and enjoyed on foot. The City is home to the world famous Tulloch Inverness Highland Games which is held on the banks of the River Ness in Bught Park ( www.invernesshighlandgames.com) which is held in July every year. The Games attract visitors from all over the World to the Highlands and once you have been to them you will understand why. These Games have been designed to take you hours to walk around and discover and dont miss the concerts at the end of every Games day in the football pitch sized beer tent. They also have some amazing free e-postcards on their website that you can send for free to the folks back home. Inverness is a great base for exploring the Scottish Highlands and is surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe including the world famous Loch Ness which you can take a cruise down if you wish to get up close to Nessie.Fort George, Europes largest fort and no trip to the Highlands would be complete without a visit to Culloden Moor. Culloden is the site of the last pitched battle fought on British soil and the new and expanded visitor centre is well worth a visit. :::::::::::::::::::::Isle of Coll Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Lonban Cottage Lonban Cottage Owner One of Scotland's Inner Hebrides, the island of Coll, 13 miles long and 3 miles wide in parts, is nowadays home to some 150 people. Located to the north-west of the Isle of Mull, it is just north of neighbouring Tiree. Coll is rockier than Tiree and has more acid moorland. Whether you want to walk on deserted beaches, go bird-watching, cycling, camping or simply gaze upon the sea, Coll is an island where you get close to nature again. The island was once home to Mairi Hedderwick, author of the children's books, Katie Morag. ::::::::::Iona Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see St Martin Cross, Abbey grounds St Martin Cross, Abbey grounds davidx Iona is a small island close to the south-west tip of the Ross of Mull, from where the ferry [cars need a permit] connects. However it is one of the most famous places in the UK, being the first centre of Christianity in the UK. Columba came from Ireland and introduced the Celtic Church here and this preceded St Augustine's founding an English branch of the Roman Catholic Church. There are beautiful beaches and unspoilt areas on the island but the crowds head for the reconstructed abbey and the ruins of the nunnery. The ancient crosses in the grounds and the museum at the abbey are of particular interest. :::::::Glasgow Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Buchanan Street Peacock Buchanan Street Peacock David Punter Glasgow is one of the largest cities in Britain, the third most visited city after London and Edinburgh (by tourists) and probably the friendliest city in the UK, thanks mainly to the warmth, vibrancy and energy of its inhabitants. Once "The second biggest city of the British Empire" and in the forefront of the industrial revolution, the city has undergone a transformation and rejuvenation bringing it into the 21st century, while still maintaining its history. It was the European City of Culture in 1991. Glasgow's carefully preserved Victorian architecture is the largest collection of its kind in the UK and is among the finest you will ever see and has earned the city the honour through 1999 as being the UK City of Architecture and Design. You will find yourself looking upwards and admiring the architecture in the first couple of days of your visit to Glasgow. No trip to Glasgow would be complete without paying a visit to some of its priceless art collections which contain pieces from all over the world. Indeed the City's Kelvingrove (closed until 2006 for restoration, but much of the collection is still available for viewing in a city centre museum) is currently host to the world famous Dead Sea Scrolls and expects to receive over 2 million visitors in the coming months. Glasgow is the only UK venue after it toured some of the major museums in the States, such as the Field Museum in Chicago. The Burrell Collection on the South Side of the river features over 8,000 items from Chinese Ceramics to French Impressionist paintings, all housed within a purpose built gallery set in the scenic Pollok Country Park. The Hunterian Art Gallery in the West End is home to the James McNeill Whistler Collection. The Art Gallery and Museum at Kelvingrove Park houses one of Britain's most priceless and best art collections. Other unique collections include the Museum of Transport in the West End and the once controversial St. Mungo Museum of Art and Religion. A new addition to the range of galleries and museums is the highly popular Museum of Modern Art situated in heart of the City Centre. Many of the galleries and museums offer free admission, giving additional incentive for them not to be missed! Glasgow boasts Britain's second biggest shopping district. The City Centre area is the largest shopping zone in Britain outside London and contains all the big high street chains as well as a wealth of the unusual. From designer clothes and lively cafe-bars at the Italian Centre or Princes Square to Europe's largest glass covered mall at St Enoch Square or Argyle Street and Sauchiehall Street the city has it all. Another major shopping centre, Buchanan Galleries, hosts over 80 of the best high street shops and eateries. In the East End, just minutes from the shopping centres and cafes is the Barras - Glasgow's very own 'flea market'. Alive every weekend with colourful market traders the Barras is the original Glasgow shopping experience. In the West end of the city a host of unusual and specialist outlets can be found. With 3 major universities and several colleges, Glasgow has a large young and cosmopolitan population. University of Glasgow, one of the 4 oldest universities in Britain (est. 1451) is located in the west-end of the city, and has one of the most beautiful campus areas in the UK. The university's main building is a magnificient gothic style structure located on the top of Gillmorehill, with its tower visible from many parts of the city. The Botanic Gardens are also located nearby- if coming from the University, find Byres Road and turn right. Follow Byres until it reaches the end, and the gardens will be directly in front of you. The greenhouses are spectacular, and a walk through the greenhouses is a nice activity in the Winter. University of Strathclyde which is located on the north eastern wing of the city centre has one of the most famous business schools in the UK, as well as the world famous Scottish Hotel School. Glasgow's history is synonymous with many important figures in science, art and technology such as Lord Kelvin, James Watt, James Maxwell, Charles Darwin, Adam Smith, Frederick Soddy, Alexander Graham Bell, John Baird, Alexander 'Greek' Thompson, and Charles Rennie Mackintosh; who were either born and brought up in Glasgow, or did part of their research work in the city. Ship building was and still is a major industry in the city; huge ocean liners such as Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mary, and Queen Elizabeth 2 were built on the shipyards of river Clyde. The Glasgow Subway (dubbed Clockwork Orange) carries more than 14 million passengers a year, and is Britain's 2nd oldest underground system after London (the world's third oldest subway after London and Budapest). It was opened more than 100 years ago in 1896. One cannot visit Glasgow and pretend that football doesn't exist. there is an intense rivalry between the two major teams in Glasgow which are Celtic and Rangers. If you want to hear 60,000 versions of Billy Connolly in full flight then get a ticket to an "Old Firm" match. The banter or "patter" as it is called, between rival supporters and the comments about their own team members human failings etc. is what inspires comedians such as Billy Connolly to paint vivid verbal pictures of Scottish philosophies and their unique view of the world. Virtually every pub in Glasgow has an endless supply of mini-Billy Connollys the only difference being that the average punter runs out of "patter" and gets more involved in his drinking than does the unstoppable Mr Connolly. ::::::::Lochinver Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Although little, if any, more than a village, Lochinver, with a hotel and shops is more like a capital in the largely unpopulated area of the Sutherland coast where it is located. Any route to it is spectacular, none more so than the tiny, winding, single track road to Achltibuie. Only careful drivers need come here! One of the most surprising places found on this diminutive road is Achins Bookshop at Inverkirkaig, where a path leads to the Falls of Kirkaig and then on to the mountain of Suilven. This mountain makes up in its isolated location and sectacular ridge what it lacks in height and it is a serious expedition to scale it. Three miles north of Lochinver is a wondeful picturesque bay with extensive sand, Achmelvich. Other mountains in the area are Canisp and Quinag, shaped like a Y. Useful websites for Lochinver are:http://www.milford.co.uk/scotland/places/lochinver.html , www.lochinver.bordernet.co.uk/places/inverkirkaig.html and:http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/lochinver/achmelvich/ ::::::::::Jedburgh Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Jedburgh is a very pleasant town set on a hill and has two spectacular buildings. The first comprises the remains of the 11th century Abbey, one of the well known Border Abbeys together with Kelso, Dryburgh and Melrose. They will be linked by a long distance footpath, the Abbeys Way. The other building is the Mary, Queen of Scots House, so-called because she visited it in the sixteenth century. It has an exhibition about her life but is well worth a visit for its own sake as a splendid example of the period. :::::::::Kelso Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Kelso's abbey remains are the least of the four main Borders abbeys and there is no charge for entry. Even so they enhance the appeal of this delightful town with some 'real' [not chain] shops, built at the junction of the Tweed and Teviot rivers. http://www.kelso.bordernet.co.uk/tourist-information/ is full of information on the town itself and the attractions around it. If you have children with you don't miss Harestanes between here and Jedburgh where there are indoor and outdoor play areas and some real appeal for adults too in the craft shops. :::::::::Mallaig Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Road to the isles Road to the isles Marina P. Mallaig is a smallish town on the west coast. It is normally reached from Fort William either by road or by on of Scotland's most scenic railways. There is however a longer route frm the south or from Mull via Morvern and Moidart, which is equally picturesque and much quieter. Mallaig is no longer connected by ferry with the Krk island but it is the ferry port for Armadale on Skye and for the Small Isles There are also trips for pedestrians to Inverie in Knoydart and on some days to what may be the UK's most picturesque piece of water, Loch Coruisk in the Coolin. :::::::::::Melrose Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Of the towns with abbeys in the Scotish Borders Melrose is possibly the prettiest, lying as it does at the foot of the Eldon Hills. There is a charge for entry to the picturesque abbey remains and there are two National Trust for Scotland gardens, one adjacent to an NTS shop. Nearby are the old Roman site at Trimontium with an exhibition and Abbotsford House, once home to Sir Walter Scott. ::::::::Orkneys Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see A wonderful Jewel of Scotland in the North Sea, The Orkney Isles are by far some of the most remote, but pleasurable, islands in Scotland. If you seek solitude but friendly and outgoing people this is the area to visit. From the ring of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stennes, Maes Howe Tomb, and Tomb of the Eagles, to the city center of Kirkwall and Stromness and the bustling Ba held once a year on New Years, Orkney is a relaxing and solitary hot spot for tourism. The Orkneys are a series of islands in the northernmost reaches of Scotland. The county to the south is Caithness with numerous ancient tombs, standing stones, and ancient dwellings called "brochs." The ferry to the main island in the Orkneys departs from and returns to Caithness. Skara Brae the oldest human settlement in the world is located on South Ronaldsay, the main island on the Orkneys. :::::::::::Perth Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Perth is really quite a beautiful town Robert the buce appointed Sir Walter Ruthven sheriff of the Royal burg untell king james moverd it Not too big, not too small. Its quaint-ness hides quite a history that has earned itself the name 'The Ancient Capital Of Scotland'. Situated as a major junction to the North parts of Scotland it is also known as the Gateway to the Highlands. It sits on the River Tay and typifies an Ancient town that has grown up. The town center is flanked by 2 major parks that are preserved much for their historic contribution for this is where major clan wars were fought and the famous Jacobean Uprising took place. Dig a little further and you'll easily discover that Perth's past is also threaded with Royalty. The city has been a Royal Burgh since the 13thC and was a Royal residence throughout the middle ages. Venture just outside to Scone and you'll find Scone Palace which was the Ancient Coronation Site for Scottish Monarchs. The Reformation was somewhat birthed here in that John Knox preached a famous sermon in St. John's Kirk in 1559 and a church has stood on that site for more than a thousand years. That's one long sermon! One thing you'll always notice in Perth is thier flowers. The town is ablanket with them. It offers this beauty and other interests for the tourist. Shops, galleries, theatres, scenery, castles, history, walks. Worth a stop off on your way to the Highlands. ____________Day Trips Edit This Dunkeld lies 20 miles north of Perth. You can take the train from Perth to Dunkeld. The Telford Bridge over the Tay was built in 1809 in response to a survey of the roads in Scotland. It is still quite a landmark. Dunkeld Cathedral was first built as a monastery in 730. Much of the town was destroyed during the 1689 Battle of Dunkeld. The "little houses" in Cathedral Road (pictured alongside) are 18th century merchants' houses which were renovated in the 1940s and are now let to local tenants. The Beatrix Potter Garden is situated in the neighbouring town of Birnam, to the west of the River Tay. Beatrix Potter spent 12 childhood summers holidaying in the area. During one holiday she wrote a picture letter to friend which developed in "The Tale of Peter Rabbit". The garden celebrates her books with bronze sculptures of several characters. Birnam is also associated with Shakespeare's Macbeth with the reference to moging Birnam Wood to Dunsinane, However the tale of the real Scottish King Macbeth has little in common with the protagonist of Shakespeare's play. The Hermitage with beautiful woodland walks is off the A9, just north of the Dunkeld exit. Two follies were erected during the creation of the Hermitage by the Duke of Atholl in the 18th century, Ossian's Cave the supposed home of the 3rd century poet and Ossian's Hall, a grand room overlooks the Black Linn Falls in the River Braan. The Hall must have been magnificent when it was lined with mirrors to reflect the waterfall and had shutters of coloured glass. ::::::::::Portsoy Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see sunset Portsoy harbour sunset Portsoy harbour Hazel Andrews Wonderful village on the Moray Firth coast, 17th century harbour hosts the Scottish Traditional boat festival annually in July. Once the harbour had been full of sailing fishing boats who fished for herring, but now mainly pleasure craft in the harbour. (Popular with caravan'ers - caravan site at the beach is always pretty full. Beautiful pond - loch soy which has paddle and rowing boats and is stocked with trout by the local angling association. Home made ice cream in the wee shoppe is fantastic. Stan Bruce 13 Jan 2006) __________Festivals Edit This Portsoy Scottish Traditional Boat Festival 2005 Portsoy Scottish Traditional Boat Festival 2005 Stanley Bruce (Bard of Banff) Portsoy's most popular festival is the Scottish traditional boat festival is held annually, attracts around 10,000 visitors. Contributors January 30, 2006 new by bardofthebroch [Add Festival] Scottish Traditional Boat Festival Edit This Blacksmith, Portsoy Scottish Traditional Boat Festival 2005 Blacksmith, Portsoy Scottish Traditional Boat Festival 2005 photo by: Stanley Bruce (Bard of Banff) Annual event held one weekend in July. World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.thebpl.co.uk ::::::::::Shetland islands Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see one of MANY streams of the hills of Unst (JAN-2004) one of MANY streams of the hills of Unst (JAN-2004) Andrés Alcega Shetland islands is a group of over one hundred islands north of Scotland. Soothing sand beaches, mesmerizing sheer cliffs, enthralling wildlife, astounding archaeology and a compelling culture is what you can expect to find on the islands. ________Unst Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Baltasound, Unst (JANUARY 2004) Baltasound, Unst (JANUARY 2004) Andrés Alcega The northern most island of the Shetland Islands is great for bird- and seal watching. If you want to be somewhere remote, Hermaness, on the nothern tip of the isle is the place to be. There are huge cliffs were birds nest and you can see them feed on fish of the coast. There are a few small comunities on the island and a tiny airfield wich has flights to Tingwal (Lerwick). _______Unst Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Baltasound, Unst (JANUARY 2004) Baltasound, Unst (JANUARY 2004) Andrés Alcega The northern most island of the Shetland Islands is great for bird- and seal watching. If you want to be somewhere remote, Hermaness, on the nothern tip of the isle is the place to be. There are huge cliffs were birds nest and you can see them feed on fish of the coast. There are a few small comunities on the island and a tiny airfield wich has flights to Tingwal (Lerwick). :::::::::Summer Isles Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Off Tanera Mor Off Tanera Mor davidx The Summer Isles form an archipelago outside the west of Coigach, easily visible from Achiltibuie but closet to Polbain further up the coast. The largest island and the only one with habitation is Tanera Mor. Hardly anybody lives there all year, even the owner having a house on the mainland as well as on the island. However in the summer some art and photography courses are run on the island and there are some houses to rent. However, oddly, the island has its own stamps that are valid in the UK. The neighbouring island of Tanera Beg has spectacularly beautiful coasts and there are some fish farms among the islands. Trips are run from Polbain [information from Achiltibuie Post Office] and from Ullapool. :::::::::::Torridonian Highlands Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see The mountains of Torridonian sandstone are possibly the only mainland mountains which can compete in beauty with the terrific Coolin of Skye. The Torridonian Peaks in the immediate area of Loch Torridon are large and provide walks along their numerous tops. Such are Liathack, Bein Alligin and Bein Eigh and, further north, the splendid ridge of An Teallach. Further north still, above Ullapool, the mountains of Torridonian sandstone are radically dfferent though not inferior. They are not as high and appear as separate peaks such as Stac Pollaidh [overwalked because of proximity to a road] Cul Mor, Cul Beag, Canisp, Suilven [almost an expedition in itself,] and the much under-rated Quinag. From most of these the view encompasses myriads of tiny lakes as well as the other mountains. _________Practical Information Edit This Youth Hostels Youth Hostels in the area are situated [south to north] at Torridon, Craig, Carn Dearg, Ullapool, Achininver, Achmelvich Beach,and Durness. Visit http://www.syha.org.uk/syha/web/site/AreaMaps/NorthWestMap.asp and click on the hostel you want. ::::::::West Kilbride Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see West Kilbride is a town located on the West coast of Scotland approximately 45 minutes away from Glasgow by train. The Isle of Arran is clearly visible from West Kilbride, and a ferry routinely offers voyages back and forth. The Seamill community is another feature of West Kilbride, and is home to the "YWAM Seamill Center" as well. West Kilbride is one of the UK's leading UFO hotspots, according to a 2004 Ministry of Defence report. |
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Scozia A cura di: www.iMondonauti.it Introduzione PROPONI TESTO Chi non conosce lo scozzese per antonomasia? Gonnellino con caratteristica fantasia a quadroni scozzese (per l'appunto), calzettoni con sgian dubh (coltello nero) infilato dentro (che fa tanto uomo rude nonostante indossi la gonna), intento a suonare una cornamusa da cui trae antiche melodie guerresche oppure intento a bere ambrato whisky davanti al caminetto di un antico maniero abitato da fantasmi. Tutto ciò è entrato a far parte della nostro immaginario eppure... appena arriviamo in Scozia, ci accorgiamo subito che non abbiamo preso in considerazione forse il tratto più emblematico di questa terra: la sua magia. La Scozia è un Paese antico e magico. Il senso del mistero pervade tutta la sua natura, non serve vedere il mostro di Loch Ness per rendersene conto, basta essere in una brughiera e guardare i rapidi cambiamenti del tempo abbattersi sui folti cespugli d'erica, oppure ammirare i suoi immensi spazi dove sibila solo il vento o osservare le variazioni del colore della luce che aleggia su paesaggi surreali e onirici. Quasi ovunque in Scozia è possibile imbattersi in una natura intatta e, a volte, primordiale, dove spazi immensi abitati da un popolo forte e gentile la fanno da padrone. E dove chiunque può scoprire angoli nascosti e sorprendenti e, con essi, anche un po' della propria Geografia e territorio PROPONI TESTO La Scozia comprende la parte più settentrionale del Regno Unito. Bagnata a nord e a ovest dall'Oceano Atlantico e a est dal Mare del Nord confina a sud con l'Inghilterra (il confine va da Gretna Green a Berwick upon Tweed). Geologicamente la Scozia è la parte più antica del Regno Unito: la formazione delle sue terre settentrionali è considerata anteriore anche a molti sistemi montuosi europei come dimostrano le sue montagne, basse e arrotondate. Le falde rocciose si succedono uniformemente in direzione sud-ovest nord-est e sono interrotte talora da spettacolari fiordi che permettono al mare di penetrare in profondità nel territorio. Normalmente in Scozia si distinguono tre regioni: le Highlands, le Lowlands e le Southern Uplands. Le Highlands (terre alte) presentano rilievi montuosi (i Grampiani culminano nel monte Ben Nevis, 1343 m, il più alto del Paese), coste frastagliate, grandi vallate (glens) e fiordi di origine glaciale (lochs). Ad est si stende una fertile pianura costiera. Le Lowlands (terre basse) occupano la Scozia meridionale e si estendono dal Firth of Clyde a ovest al Firth of Forth a al Tay ad est.Le sue coste, a differenza di quelle più settentrionali del Paese, sono più regolari. Le Southern Uplands sono terre collinari poco elevate; il golfo di Solway le separa nettamente dall'Inghilterra. I fiumi della Scozia sono ripidi e non navigabili; numerosi i laghi di montagna o di valli glaciali, questi ultimi lunghi e stretti, molto profondi (il più grande, tra essi, è il Lomond, 71 kmq). Ben 790 sono le isole e gli isolotti della Scozia. Le più importanti sono le Shetland (all'estremo nord), le Orcadi (a nord ovest) e le Ebridi (a ovest). Si tratta di tre arcipelaghi a loro volta formati da una miriade di isolette, vere oasi naturali circondate dal mare. Le Ebridi di distinguono in Ebridi Interne ed Ebridi Esterne; le Orcadi e le Shetland sono distanti tra loro solo 60 miglia e hanno in comune un forte retaggio scandinavo. Le Shetland, completamente prive di vegetazione, vantano scogliere davvero spettacolari. Clima PROPONI TESTO La costa occidentale della Scozia gode di un clima notevolmente mite considerata la sua latitudine (57° parallelo) poichè è lambita dalle calde acque della corrente del Golfo. Ciò significa un aumento dell'umidità, ma anche possibilità di sviluppare una flora quasi tropicale. All'opposto, la costa orientale è fredda e secca. Normalmente, in Scozia il tempo cambia con una rapidità sconcertante: la nebbia può essere repentinamente spazzata via da un colpo di vento, subito dopo può brillare il sole e poco dopo piovere. Ma anche la pioggia dura poco e via, si ricomincia... Ecologia e ambiente PROPONI TESTO Nessuno ha ancora proposto contenuti per questa parte della guida, vuoi farlo tu? Per poter compiere questa operazione devi esserti registrato ed aver effettuato l'accesso sul sito. Per maggiori informazioni sulla registrazione clicca sul pulsante qui a destra! Popolazione PROPONI TESTO Chi di noi non è in grado di descrivere in due parole lo scozzese per antonomasia? Kilt, cornamusa e una buona dose di avarizia ne sono i tratti distintivi. In realtà, si può ben dire che gli scozzesi non siano troppo vicini a tale stereotipo. Innanzitutto, gli scozzesi più conosciuti sono gli abitanti delle Highlands, gli highlanders: di origine celtica, parlano il gaelico, sono rudi e duri come le terre nelle quali vivono, economi ma non avari, dotati di una grande energia spirituale che ha permesso loro di opporsi sempre strenuamente ad ogni ingerenza straniera. Ma gli highlanders sono ben diversi dai lowlanders, di origine anglosassone e quindi molto più anglicizzati. Entrambi sono accomunati da un fortissimo sentimento nazionale e quindi sono scozzesi, il che significa assolutamente "non inglesi". Ancora diversi gli abitanti delle Shetland che, se proprio dovessero decidere in merito, sceglierebbero di essere nè inglesi nè scozzesi, ma norvegesi, in quanto fortemente influenzati dal retaggio scandinavo. Lingua PROPONI TESTO In Scozia si parla l'inglese scozzese (Scots o Lallans) mentre il gaelico scozzese, lingua di origine celtica, è usato ancor oggi nelle regioni montuose della Scozia (Highlands) e nelle isole Ebridi dove è parlato addirittura dalla maggioranza della popolazione. Religione PROPONI TESTO La popolazione scozzese segue la Chiesa presbiteriana di Scozia (the Kirk), di ispirazione calvinista. Tale religione prese piede dopo la protesta contro la chiesa anglicana d'Inghilterra guidata dal pastore J. Knox (1562) e ben presto divenne la religione nazionale, sancendo in tal modo anche l'indipendenza della Scozia dall'Inghilterra e l'autodeterminazione nazionale. I presbiteriani ottennero libertà di culto nel 1689. Come dice lo stesso nome, Chiesa presbiteriana significa Chiesa degli anziani della comunità (di entrambi i sessi): gli anziani scelgono il pastore o ministro del culto, il tutto prendendo a modello l'organizzazione che Calvino aveva applicato a Ginevra, a sua volta copia delle prime comunità cristiane descritte negli Atti degli Apostoli. Nella Chiesa di Scozia, tra il clero non esiste gerarchia: tutti i pastori hanno pari dignità e, una volta all'anno, si riuniscono in assemblea per eleggere un moderatore che ha il compito di andare a visitare tutte le comunità di presbiteriani disseminate per il mondo. La Chiesa presbiteriana ha sempre esercitato una forte influenza sui costumi degli scozzesi tanto che ancor oggi, in certe zone del paese, la domenica è vissuta come un giorno totalmente dedicato al Signore, con tutti i negozi, ristoranti, pompe di benzina chiuse. Nel 1893, dalla Chiesa di Scozia si staccò la Libera Chiesa presbiteriana di Scozia che intende rimanere quanto più possibile fedele allo spirito originario della Riforma protestante. Seconda chiesa in Scozia, per numero di fedeli, è quella episcopale, anglicana ma indipendente dalla Chiesa d'Inghilterra. In Scozia, soprattutto nella parte occidentale, Highlands e isole, vi è anche una buona percentuale di cattolici (circa 700.000). Si contano anche minoranze di battisti, metodisti, ebrei, musulmani e druidi. Storia PROPONI TESTO Abitata da tribù primitive di incerta provenienza, quella che i Romani chiamarono Caledonia fu poi invasa dai Celti, coloro che improntarono in modo definitivo la storia del Paese, imponendo alle popolazioni locali la loro lingua e la loro cultura. I romani non furono mai veramente interessati alle terre impervie e selvagge del nord e, nel 122, l'imperatore Adriano fece costruire il famoso vallo da Newcastle a Carlisle (poco dopo Antonino Pio ne farà costruire un altro più a nord del primo), entrambi divenuti il simbolo di un radicato antagonismo tra la cultura celtica e quella inglese. Quando i romani lasciarono definitivamente la Scozia, l'opera civilizzatrice passò nelle mani dei monaci cristiani (inizi del V sec.). Grande fu infatti l'opera missionaria di S. Colombano che, fondato il famoso monastero di Iona, convertì il re dei Pitti e tutto il suo popolo e istituì monasteri celti in Caledonia diffondendovi religione e cultura. Irradiandosi da Iona, l'azione della cristianità celtica affermò contro Roma la propria autonomia e contribuì ad approfondire il distacco tra Scozia ed Inghilterra. Nell'VIII sec. i Pitti estesero la loro supremazia sulle popolazioni vicine per poi essere sottomessi da Kenneth McAlpin il quale unì le terre in un unico regno scoto di Dalriada e Caledonia chiamandolo regno di Scozia (Scone). Seguì un periodo di dure lotte per il consolidamento della monarchia (risalgono a questo periodo gli avvenimenti che Shakespeare racconterà nel Macbeth) che terminò con l'incoronazione di Malcolm III Canmore, primo re di Scozia. Nel 1303 Edoardo di Inghilterra invase il paese, sottomise i nobili e annesse la Scozia all'Inghilterra. Robert Bruce organizzò una rivolta di nobili giungendo, dopo alterne fortune, a porre fine alle mire inglesi sulla Scozia meridionale, trasformando il Paese in un regno unito e potente. Dopo nuovi torbidi, il partito scozzese riebbe il sopravvento sugli inglesi nel 1341. Con Robert II iniziò la dinastia degli Stuart. Nei 170 anni che seguirono, la storia della Scozia consistette in guerre futili con l'Inghilterra, in lotte intestine fra nobili e in continue rivolte al potere sovrano. Di tutta una lunga serie di re scozzesi ricordiamo qui Giacomo IV, caduto con 12.000 scozzesi nella sanguinosa battaglia di Flodden contro gli inglesi, e Maria Stuarda, regina cattolica di un paese ormai protestante, costretta ad abdicare il favore del figlio Giacomo VI e poi decapitata per ordine della cugina Elisabetta I d'Inghilterra presso la quale aveva cercato rifugio. L'unione delle corone di Scozia ed Inghilterra si compie sul capo di Giacomo VI di Scozia, che governerà su entrambe con il nome di Giacomo I. Egli chiamò il suo regno Regno di Gran Bretagna. Solo nel 1707, con l'Atto di Unione che comportava l'unificazione dei Parlamenti inglese e scozzese, si ebbe un unico regno: il Regno Unito di Gran Bretagna. D'ora in poi le grandi decisioni politiche si prenderanno in Inghilterra e la storia di Scozia la si dovrà leggere all'interno della storia della Gran Bretagna. La stessa corona scozzese, dopo la morte di Anna Stuart rimasta senza discendenza diretta, passò definitivamente alla corona d'Inghilterra con George I Hannover. Costituzione PROPONI TESTO La Scozia è parte della Gran Bretagna con la quale condivide il Capo dello Stato che è il monarca, tale per diritto ereditario. Attuale regnante è la regina Elisabetta II (erroneamente indicata come Elisabetta I di Inghilterra mentre l'Inghilterra, come stato separato, non esiste più dal 1707). Il Parlamento scozzese, fuso con quello inglese nel 1707, è stato ricostituito nel 1997 (referendum). Ha competenza legislativa nelle materie di interesse nazionale scozzese ed esercita quindi un limitato autogoverno che non mette in discussione il fatto che, dal punto di vista costituzionale, il Regno Unito sia uno stato unitario con governo e parlamento sovrani (per quanto riguarda il Parlamento della Gran Bretagna, la Scozia vi è rappresentata da 59 deputati). Il Parlamento scozzese, monocamerale, è composto da 129 membri. Il primo Ministro è designato dalla regina d'Inghilterra su indicazione del Parlamento. Parlamento e governo scozzesi hanno sede ad Edimburgo. Le basi della costituzione inglese, i cui principi non trovano espressione in una carta fondamentale dei diritti, vanno ricercate in alcuni documenti storici quali la Magna Charta e, successivamente, l'Habeas Corpus (1679, sulle garanzie dell'individuo), il Bill of Right (1689), l'Act of Settlement (1701, con cui si limitano i poteri del re stabilendo che egli è un funzionario dello Stato) e il Parlamient Act (1911, che limita radicalmente i poteri della Camera alta). Amministrativamente la Scozia è suddivisa in 32 aree amministrative. Situazione politica PROPONI TESTO Nel XX sec., un rigurgito di nazionalismo consente la nascita del Partito nazionale scozzese (1928) il cui primo rappresentante alla camera dei Comuni viene eletto nel 1970. Il referendum del 1979 che prevede la devoluzione di alcuni poteri del Parlamento inglese a una nuova assemblea scozzese ottiene una maggioranza di voti favorevoli alla sua realizzazione. Economia PROPONI TESTO La Scozia è ancor oggi terra di grandi latifondi. Le terre coltivate sono per lo più nella parte orientale della regione con predominanza di cereali e verdure. Sviluppato l'allevamento di ovini per la presenza di estesi pascoli. Dopo il declino dell'industria pesante, sviluppo dei servizi e delle tecnologie soprattutto informatiche (la zona tra Edimburgo e Glasgow viene chiamata Silicon Glen). I fondali del Mare del Nord contengono i più vasti giacimenti petroliferi dell'Unione Europea, ed Aberdeen è considerata la capitale europea del petrolio. Glasgow è il maggiore porto della Scozia (cantieri navali) ma anche il principale centro di commercio al dettaglio e grosso centro finanziario. Vi sono industrie tessili, chimiche, conserviere (pesce), distillerie e birrifici. In ascesa l'industria turistica. Festival e tradizioni PROPONI TESTO In Scozia vi sono numerosissime occasioni per assistere a manifestazioni di alto livello dedicate alla musica, al jazz, al cinema, all'ippica, alle bande di cornamuse, al golf e chi più ne ha più ne metta. Non potendo segnalarle tutte ve ne indichiamo alcune tra le più rappresentative. A fine gennaio, a Glasgow, si tiene il Celtic connections, festival di musiche tradizionali; il 30 gennaio, alle Shetland è il momento dell'Up helly aa, il Festival vichingo del fuoco (viene dato alla fiamme anche un modello di nave vichinga lungo 9 m) mentre a febbraio, a Inverness, il Music Festival è dedicato a danze e musiche. In aprile, un Festival della danza si tiene pure alle isole Orcadi mentre a fine maggio è la volta, sempre alle Orcadi, di un Festival folk. Il 30 aprile a Edimburgo, il Beltane Fire Festival (Festival del fuoco) celebra l'arrivo dell'estate mentre il mese successivo (maggio) a Dumbarton potrete assistere al campionato di bande di cornamuse (Scottish pipe band campionship) anche se quello più importante di tutti si tiene ad Inverness a fine luglio. A metà giugno può essere interessante assistere alla simbolica cavalcata che si tiene lungo gli antichi confini della città di Selkirk oppure alla ricostruzione della battaglia di Bannockburn (nei pressi di Stirling, il 23-24 giugno) con centinaia di figuranti, falconieri e gare di tiro con l'arco. Se vi trovate in Scozia durante l'estate cercate di non perdere a fine luglio il giochi delle Highlands. Queste competizioni venivano, nei tempi passati, organizzate dai capi clan per misurare le capacità atletiche ed artistiche degli uomini che poi avrebbero avuto al loro servizio. In vasti spiazzi erbosi si radunano highlanders che si esibiscono in danze popolari (danza delle spade) e giochi talvolta molto particolari. Tra questi colpisce senz'altro il lancio del tronco: giovanotti muscolosi si sfidano a lanciare il più lontano possibile un grosso e lungo tronco d'albero prendendolo per un'estremità e facendolo ruotare su se stesso. In queste occasioni c'è anche la possibilità di vedere suonare le tipiche cornamuse. Il Festival di Edimburgo ha ormai raggiunto fama internazionale. Dal 3 al 25 agosto, per 3 settimane, è un susseguirsi di opere, concerti, balletti, pezzi teatrali, tutti di altissima qualità; non mancano proposte alternative quali spettacoli di mimo, teatro d'avanguardia, canzoni ecc. Più famoso di tutto è però il Military Tattoo, una parata militare in cui i reggimenti scozzesi si sfidano suonando le loro cornamuse nel corso di una splendida parata che si svolge ai piedi del Castello di Edimburgo. Ad aprile, sempre ad Edimburgo, si svolge anche l'International Folk Festival mentre a maggio la rassegna musicale del Mayfest fa accorrere gli appassionati a Glasgow. Gli amanti di melodie gaeliche non dovranno invece mancare ai Ceilidh (Edimburgo, 24 marzo-14 aprile). Sant' Andrea, santo patrono di Scozia si festeggia il 30 novembre e se vi trovate per Natale o Capodanno alle Orcadi non perdetevi The Bà, storica partita a calcio che si svolge lungo le strade e alla quale partecipano 400 giocatori. Ora PROPONI TESTO Il turista italiano al suo arrivo in Scozia deve spostare indietro il proprio orologio di 1 ora (quando in Italia sono le 12 in Gran Bretagna sono le 11). Quando in Italia è in vigore l’ora legale lo è anche in Scozia e quindi la differenza rimane invariata. Prima del Viaggio Visto Turistico Non necessario Passaporto E' sufficiente la carta d'identità valida per l'espatrio Vaccino Febbre Gialla Non necessaria Profilassi Antimalarica Non necessaria Vaccino Epatite A Consigliato Vaccino Epatite B Consigliato Vaccino Antitifico Non necessario Quando andare PROPONI TESTO Ogni stagione in Scozia ha il suo fascino. L'estate scozzese è in genere gradevolmente fresca e consente di muoversi comodamente lungo strade raramente congestionate dal traffico urbano. Ma l'estate è, per ovvi motivi, anche il periodo di maggior afflusso turistico soprattutto se pensate di muovervi dal 15 luglio al 15 agosto, periodo di ferie anche per inglesi e scozzesi; da metà agosto ai primi di settembre invece il festival di Edimburgo fa da polo catalizzatore e potrebbe diventare difficile trovare alloggio se non prenotate per tempo. Primavera e autunno sono mesi adatti a coloro che amano immergersi nei colori della natura. In primavera si può assistere alla fioritura dei rododendri, in autunno si possono ammirare i magnifici colori e l'incanto delle vaste brughiere. La bassa stagione in Scozia va da ottobre a fine maggio e questo vi consentirà di risparmiare sui pernottamenti che, in questo periodo, costano meno. Statisticamente, maggio e giugno risultano essere meno piovosi di luglio ed agosto. Ad Edimburgo le temperature medie annuali si aggirano sui 10° C, 3°-4° C in inverno e 14°-16° C in estate. Burocrazia e visti PROPONI TESTO Al cittadino italiano per visitare la Scozia è sufficiente la carta d’identità valida per l'espatrio. Per i minorenni sprovvisti di documenti è sufficiente un certificato di nascita con foto autenticata dalla Questura. Vaccinazioni PROPONI TESTO Non sono necessarie vaccinazioni di alcun tipo. Da mettere in valigia PROPONI TESTO L’abbigliamento dovrà essere funzionale e prevedere la possibilità di rapidi cambiamenti di tempo. E’ sempre bene portare anche capi pesanti, impermeabile, scarpe comode e stivali di gomma se si pensa di visitare le Highlands e le Shetland; l’ombrello non è molto comodo in caso di vento. Elettricità PROPONI TESTO La corrente elettrica è a 240 volt, le prese sono del tipo a tre buchi. É da tenere presente che gli adattatori non modificano in alcun modo la tensione o la frequenza della presa ma si limitano ad adattarne fisicamente l'ingresso alle spine italiane. In questo paese (Scozia) abbiamo un voltaggio di 240 V con una frequenza di 50 Hz, e le seguenti prese: Britannica a 3 poli Indirizzi utili PROPONI TESTO Burocrazia e Visti Ambasciata d'Italia in Gran Bretagna Three Kings Yard 14, Londra tel: 207-3122200 sito web: www.embitaly.org.uk Ambasciata di Gran Bretagna in Italia Via XX Settembre 80/a, Roma tel: 06-4825551/4825441 Consolato Generale d'Italia Eaton Place 38, Londra tel: 207-2359371 Consolato Generale d'Italia Melville Street 32, Edimburgo tel: 13-2263631/2203695 Turismo e Cultura Ente per il Turismo in Gran Bretagna Via Nazionale 230, Roma tel: 06-4620221 Ufficio del Turismo Corso Magenta 32, Milano tel: 02-8808151 sito web: www.visitbritain.com Sanità e Sicurezza Ambulanza tel: 999 Emergenza tel: 100 Soccorso Stradale tel: 0800887766/0800828282 Il Viaggio Quanto stare PROPONI TESTO Se non avete un mese di tempo per girare con calma l'intera Scozia, potete decidere di soggiornarvi per almeno 9-12 gg. e visitare la regione centrale ed Edimburgo. Edimburgo, da sola, richiede almeno 3 gg. per una visita non affrettata quindi un week end potrebbe andare benissimo per accostarsi per la prima volta alla realtà scozzese. Se invece volete spingervi al nord e visitare anche qualche isola prevedete tempi di spostamento più lunghi e quindi almeno 2 settimane di viaggio. Come arrivare PROPONI TESTO Regolari voli giornalieri della compagnia di bandiera inglese British Airways (www.ba.com) e di quella italiana Alitalia (www.alitalia.it) raggiungono Edimburgo e Glasgow con partenza dalle maggiori città italiane e scalo a Londra o Birmingham. Le tariffe del volo aereo possono essere estremamente convenienti se si approfitta di una delle tante offerte proposte dalle diverse compagnie aeree low cost. Vi sono voli giornalieri diretti da Orio al Serio e Roma per Gasglow, ma anche da Pisa cinque volte la settimana (www.ryanair.com); Edimburgo è raggiungibile da Milano/Pisa (www.jet2.com) e da Milano (www.easyjet.com, giornaliero) ma anche da Roma (www.flyglobespan.com) e da Napoli (www.thompsonfly.com, nel periodo estivo). Via terra è possibile raggiungere la Gran Bretagna sia in treno che in pullman o in auto. I pullman che partono per Londra da diverse città italiane (Roma, Ancona, Rimini, Firenze, Bologna, Milano, Venezia, Padova, Verona, Torino; Eurolines, www.eurolines.com) attraversano la Manica da Calais a Dover con il traghetto. In questo caso il viaggio Roma-Londra dura circa 30 ore. Da Londra bisogna poi proseguire per il nord: Glasgow ed Edimburgo sono raggiungibili con veloci e confortevoli treni intercity rispettivamente in 5 e 4 ore, e una buona rete ferroviaria collega le principali città scozzesi. Se volete muovervi solo con il treno (www.raileurope.it) dovrete raggiungere comunque Londra via Parigi e poi proseguire per la Scozia. Tra Calais e Folkestone il treno imbocca l'Eurotunnel e quindi passa sotto la Manica (www.eurotunnel.com). Se intendete raggiungere la Gran Bretagna in auto e poi proseguire per la Scozia dovrete o attraversare l'Eurotunnel o imbarcarvi su uno dei tanti traghetti giornalieri che partono da Zeebrugge (Belgio) per Rosyth (www.superfast.com; tel. 071202033) oppure imbarcarvi in qualche porto olandese o francese e sbarcare a Newcastle o Dover (www.agamare.it). Arrivati a Londra dovrete calcolare altri 600 km (circa 8 ore di viaggio) per arrivare ad Edimburgo. Tasse di ingresso-imbarco PROPONI TESTO Le tasse aeroportuali per Scozia e Gran Bretagna sono generalmente comprese nel costo del biglietto aereo. Cosa vedere e cosa fare PROPONI TESTO Nessuno ha ancora proposto contenuti per questa parte della guida, vuoi farlo tu? Per poter compiere questa operazione devi esserti registrato ed aver effettuato l'accesso sul sito. Per maggiori informazioni sulla registrazione clicca sul pulsante qui a destra! PROPONI TESTO Borders La zona della Scozia a sud di Edimburgo e a ridosso dell'Inghilterra si chiama Borders ed è famosa non solo per i suoi fiumi ricchi di salmoni, ma anche per alcune splendide rovine di abbazie (Jedburgh, Melrose, Kelso, Dryburgh). PROPONI TESTO Castelli Tra i castelli più caratteristici per cui la Scozia va giustamente famosa vi sono: il castello di Inverary, costruito nel XVIII sec. sul Loch Fyne, che si erge maestoso circondato da prati perfettamente curati; il castello di Dunnottar, che domina il verde paesaggio dei Granpiani a sud di Aberdeen; il castello di Stalker, che si erge solitario al centro di un isolotto circondato dalle acque del Loch Linnhe, a nord di Oban; il maestoso Blair Castle, residenza dei duchi di Atholl, nel cuore del Perthshire; lo scenografico complesso settecentesco di Floors Castle, che sorge nei pressi del villaggio di Kelso; l'amatissimo Scone Palace (3 km da Perth), costruito agli inizi del 1800, ma famoso perchè vi si trovava la Stone of Scone, la pietra su cui venivano incoronati i re di Scozia (ora conservata a Londra, nell'Abbazia di Westminster); il castello di Glamis tra le cui mura Shakespeare avrebbe ambientato il suo Macbeth, in stile baronale del XIV sec., castello di famiglia della regina d'Inghilterra (e abitato, per gli amanti del genere, da ben sei fantasmi!); lo spettacolare Castello di Craigievar (dintorni di Aberdeen), dalle altissime torri angolari ; il pittoresco Eilean Donan Castle, noto ora come il castello di Highlander perchè qui furono girate alcune scene dell'omonimo film. Per approfondimenti vedi l'Itinerario de iMondonauti: Alla scoperta della Scozia e delle Highlands PROPONI TESTO Edimburgo Punto di partenza obbligatorio per chi arriva per la prima volta in Scozia è Edimburgo, la città più ricca di opere d'arte della Gran Bretagna dopo Londra. Formata da due distinte città, la Old Town dominata dal castello, e la neoclassica New Town, conserva musei ed edifici storici di sicuro interesse. Holyroodhouse è sede del Parlamento scozzese e residenza estiva della regina Elisabetta II. Nei pressi di Edimburgo sorge il castello di Linlithgow. Qui, nel 1542, nacque Maria Stuarda, la regina che regnò sulla Scozia nei tragici anni delle lotte di religione tra cattolici e protestanti e che finì decapitata per ordine di sua cugina Elisabetta I. Per approfondimenti vedi l'Itinerario de iMondonauti: Glasgow ed Edimburgo PROPONI TESTO Glasgow Rivaleggia con Edimburgo la città di Glasgow, motore dell'economia scozzese per gran parte del XX secolo e successivamente centro di grandi fervori urbanistici e culturali.Un'opulenta architettura vittoriana arricchisce il centro storico nel quale fa bella mostra di sè anche la cattedrale medievale, l'unica in Scozia rimasta intatta dalle distruzioni della Riforma protestante. Nei dintorni di Glasgow è anche da vedere il Loch Lomond, il più vasto e uno dei più bei laghi scozzesi.Il lago più famoso è invece il lago di Loch Ness abitato, secondo la tradizione, da una misteriosa creatura marina che gli scozzesi chiamano affettuosamente Nessie. Per approfondimenti vedi l'Itinerario de iMondonauti: Glasgow ed Edimburgo PROPONI TESTO Isole Tra le isole scozzesi più suggestive quella di Skye, grazie al tormentato spettacolo offerto dalle Cullin Hills.Da non perdere assolutamente una visita al trittico Mull-Iona-Staffa. Mull è un'isola verdeggiante che si attraversa per raggiungere Iona, culla della cristianità scozzese, dove si ergono tuttora i resti della chiesa voluta da S. Colombano. Ad ovest di Mull e facente parte sempre delle Ebridi Interne, lo scoglio disabitato di Staffa affascina per la sua grotta (Fingal's Cave) e le fantastiche formazioni esagonali di basalto ricordo di preistoriche eruzioni vulcaniche. Di tutt'altro genere l'isola di Arran (Ebridi Esterne), vero paradiso naturalistico a causa del suo mite clima. Qui si trovano i sei cerchi megalitici di Machrie Moor, uno dei luoghi archeologici più interessanti di Scozia. Cerchi megalitici risalenti a 5000 anni fa anche a Callanish, nell'isola di Lewis (Ebridi Esterne).Le isole Ebridi sia Interne che Esterne sono, tra le altre cose, un vero paradiso dei naturalisti; vi potrete ammirare un'infinità di uccelli marini, aquile reali, oche groelandesi, foche, lontre, cervi. Ma se volete davvero stupirvi andate a Fair Isle, la più remota del Regno Unito, regno incontrastato di numerose colonie di uccelli migratori, foche, delfini e orche marine. Shetland è il nome di un remoto arcipelago di un centinaio di isole abitato da 24000 persone di cultura più vichinga che scozzese. La città principale è Lerwick, abbellita dalle caratteristiche case tradizionali. Unst è l'isola più settentrionale di tutte, amatissima da infinite varietà di uccelli che qui nidificano. Al largo dell'estrema punta nord orientale della Scozia si trovano invece le isole Orcadi. Kirkwall è la città principale, arricchita dall'imponente cattedrale di S. Magnus. Maes Howe, Stenness, sono invece le più belle tombe a camera dell'Europa nordoccidentale, risalenti a 5000 anni fa. PROPONI TESTO Località caratteristiche Tra le località più tipicamente scozzesi ricordiamo: St. Andrews, graziosa e tranquilla cittadina medievale famosa per i suoi campi da golf; Inverness, la capitale delle Highlands, base ideale per visitare questa affascinante regione scozzese (da non perdere una passeggiata lungo le rive del fiume Ness e un salto al profondissimo Loch Ness); Oban, in bella posizione e comodo luogo di imbarco per coloro che desiderino visitare le Ebridi Interne; Stirling, che conserva un magnifico castello del XII sec. PROPONI TESTO Se vuoi ulteriori notizie pratiche e approfondimenti su cosa vedere, leggi gli Itinerari scritti e sperimentati da voi: • La Scozia e le Highlands • Glasgow ed Edinburgo Come spostarsi Voli interni PROPONI TESTO Da Londra partono voli per tutte le principali città della Scozia offerti dalla British Airways (www.britishairways.com). British Airways e Loganair collegano anche il resto di Gran Bretagna alle isole scozzesi e queste tra di loro. Mezzi pubblici PROPONI TESTO Il servizio dei pullman scozzesi è efficiente e capillare, i mezzi sono più lenti dei treni ma più economici. I bus gialli e blu della Scottish Link arrivano praticamente ovunque e può essere interessante acquistare l'Explorer Pass che consente viaggi illimitati a partire da 39 sterline (www.citylink.co.uk). Per raggiungere invece le località più remote può essere un'esperienza inusuale utilizzare i bus con cui viene distribuita la posta (www.royalmail.com/postbus: i posti sono a pagamento e limitati, per cui meglio che prenotiate per tempo). Per i viaggiatori con budget ridotto e che si appoggiano agli ostelli per i pernottamenti c'è un comodo servizio di bus che collega i vari ostelli (Haggis Backpackers e Go Blue Bennana). La rete ferroviaria scozzese è limitata e i biglietti dei treni sono piuttosto cari. Se intendete spostarvi spesso in treno vi consigliamo di acquistare lo Freedom of Scotland Travelpass che vi permette di viaggiare illimitatamente su tutta la rete ferroviaria, su vari bus, sui traghetti della Caledonian McBrayne e a tariffa ridotta sui traghetti per le Orcadi a prezzi vantaggiosi (si parte da 96 sterline. Altri pass che possono tornare utili sono: ScotRail Area Rover e Central Scotland Rover. Si possono acquistare presso le stazioni ferroviaria scozzesi o collegandosi a www.firstscotrail.com). Particolarmente spettacolari le linee ferroviarie West Highland, Stirling-Inverness ed Inverness-Kyle of Lochalsh. Mezzi a noleggio PROPONI TESTO Le tariffe di autonoleggio in Scozia sono piuttosto elevate; se si decide comunque di noleggiare la macchina è bene tener presente che le piccole agenzie di autonoleggio offrono soluzioni più convenienti che non le maggiori compagnie internazionali. La circolazione stradale è a sinistra perciò state attenti i primi giorni a precedenze e incroci, ma soprattutto ai limiti di velocità. Le indicazioni stradali sono in miglia e non in chilometri ed i limiti di velocit sono molto più bassi dei nostri (circa 110 km/ora sulle autostrade); attenzione soprattutto alle zone a traffico controllato, gli scozzesi le telecamere le mettono davvero! Altri mezzi PROPONI TESTO Frequenti traghetti collegano le numerose isole a nord e a ovest della Scozia. Le Ebridi sono raggiungibili con i collegamenti plurigiornalieri delle navi della Caledonian McBrayne (www.calmac.co.uk), le Orcadi con le navi di varie compagnie (www.orkneyferries.co.uk; www.pentlandferries.com; www.jogferries.co.uk) mentre la rotta Aberdeen-Larwick (Shetland) è servita dalla North Link Ferries (www.northlinkferries.co.uk) che compie il tragitto quattro volte la settimana in circa 12 ore e 30 min passando per le Orcadi (per gli orari potete consultare www.visitshetland.com). I possessori dello Scotrail pass possono viaggiare liberamente anche sulla maggior parte delle tratte coperte da questi traghetti. Patente PROPONI TESTO Carburante PROPONI TESTO La benzina è cara e le stazioni di servizio sono rare, quindi è sempre meglio assicurarsi di avere il serbatoio pieno. Dormire PROPONI TESTO In Scozia troverete una grande varietà di strutture ricettive capaci di soddisfare tutti i gusti e tutte le tasche. Gli hotel di ogni categoria sono affiancati da centinaia di B&B, ville di campagna, pensioni (guesthouses), locande (lodge e inns) e campeggi. Gli hotel richiedono un minimo di 25 sterline a persona per notte; prezzi migliori riuscirete a spuntarli durante la bassa stagione che va da ottobre a maggio. I B&B scozzesi costituiscono forse la soluzione migliore: a gestione familiare, dotati generalmente di poche camere, non sempre con servizi privati, hanno però un buon rapporto qualità-prezzo e consentono di conoscere più da vicino la gente del posto. I prezzi partono mediamente dalle 14 sterline a persona.Non è necessario prenotare in anticipo, ma sarà certamente opportuno scegliere l’alloggio preferito prima delle 19.00, dopo quell’orario la ricerca di una camera potrebbe rivelarsi più complessa. Per i più giovani, alloggi economici sono reperibili presso ostelli e ostelli delle associazioni cristiane (YMCA Britain; YWCA of Great Britain). Gli ostelli della SHYA richiedono la tessera dell'Associazione Internazionale Ostelli della gioventù, non richiesta invece dagli ostelli indipendenti (dove la pulizia lascia però molto spesso a desiderare). Una buona alternativa, durante i periodi di vacanza degli studenti locali, è offerto dai campus universitari che offrono buone occasioni di alloggio anche alle famiglie. I campeggi sono oltre 400 e sono dotati di ottimi servizi. Se viaggiate con il camper ricordate che è vietato il parcheggio notturno sulle piazzole di sosta. Il campeggio libero è tollerato nelle località più remote; comunque, prima di piantare la tenda, è sempre bene chiedere il permesso al proprietario del terreno. Mangiare PROPONI TESTO La cucina scozzese offre in genere piatti sostanziosi a prezzi contenuti. La colazione si serve solitamente tra le 8 e le 9 ed è generalmente estremamente abbondante, sia che sia continentale che scozzese classica, visto che il pranzo per gli scozzesi si risolve per lo più con un panino. A questo proposito numerose sono le catene di negozi che offrono panini già pronti per il pranzo; guardate dove si servono gli scozzesi (anche per le bibite): la differenza di prezzi tra un negozio ed un altro può essere anche del 50%. Da tenere presente che la cena in Scozia si serve normalmente tra le 18.00 e le 20.30. Piatto nazionale scozzese è l'haggins, un insaccato a base di carne che si gusta cotto con contorno di purè di patate e di rape. Viene considerato sia antipasto che primo piatto ed è consumato quotidianamente nelle Highlands e nelle Ebridi Esterne; lo troverete un po' dappertutto, anche i fornai lo vendono in crosta mentre nelle friggitorie ve lo friggeranno con della pastella. Se amate le zuppe fatevi portare la mislin kail, zuppa di verdure, o la kilmeny kail, zuppa arricchita con carne di coniglio e maiale; particolarissima è la cock-a-leekie, una zuppa di porro con pollo e prugne. Piatti forti della tavola scozzese sono anche il salmone, i frutti di mare, le carni (sempre ottime e cotte alla perfezione) e la selvaggina (cervo, fagiano, lepre). Nel Loch Fyne potrete gustare le ostriche e le Orcadi sono famose per i loro formaggi. Eccellenti i piatti di pesce: aringhe e salmoni sono preferibili affumicati mentre freschi sono da gustare trote, sogliole, salmoni, granchi. Come frutta troverete lamponi e fragole. Per digerire il tutto non potrete naturalmente fare a meno di un bicchierino di scotch whisky di malto non invecchiato. Non sempre raffinati e non sempre economici, ma comunque numerosissimi, i pub scozzesi consentono di mangiare sia snack che pasti caldi a prezzi non eccessivamente elevati. Posta e telefono PROPONI TESTO Per telefonare dall’Italia in Gran Bretagna (e quindi anche dalla Scozia) bisogna comporre lo 0044 seguito dal prefisso della località senza lo 0 e dal numero desiderato. Per telefonare dalla Gran Bretagna in Italia bisogna comporre lo 0039 seguito dal numero dell’abbonato desiderato. E’ possibile telefonare con chiamata a carico del destinatario digitando lo 00800890039 (operatore di lingua italiana) oppure il 155 (operatore internazionale). Ovunque troverete internet point da dove spedire le vostre mail o nelle quali telefonare tramite Skype. E’ permessa l’importazione e l’utilizzo di un apparecchio GSM; i cellulari funzionano regolarmente ma potrebbe essere di gran lunga più economico chiamare da una cabina pubblica. Moneta e carte di credito PROPONI TESTO La moneta della Scozia è la sterlina scozzese. Le sterline scozzesi non hanno corso legale in Inghilterra, Galles ed Irlanda del Nord, ma sono liberamente scambiabili con quelle inglesi. Le carte di credito sono diffuse e consentono di prelevare contanti agli sportelli delle banche o a quelli automatici presso i quali è possibile prelevare sterline anche con la tessera bancomat (Eurocheque). Le banche sono aperte dal lunedì al venerdì con orario 9.30-15.30, alcune anche al sabato con orario 9.30-12. Ricordate di spendere tutte le sterline scozzesi finchè siete in Scozia perchè spesso le banche fuori della Gran Bretagna non le accettano e quindi potreste non riuscire a riconvertirle in euro. Cambio attuale: 1 Euro = 0,78 Sterlina Gran Bretagna 1 USD = 0,50 Sterlina Gran Bretagna dati aggiornati al 28/03/08 Sanità PROPONI TESTO In Scozia i cittadini italiani, in caso di necessità, possono disporre gratuitamente delle cure di pronto soccorso. Cure più specialistiche dovranno essere pagate sul luogo, ma potrete chiederne il rimborso (parziale) al vostro rientro in Italia. Conviene però sempre stipulare anticipatamente una buona assicurazione sanitaria privata che preveda la copertura delle spese che potrebbero rendersi necessarie. E’ possibile richiedere l’indirizzo di un medico o dell’ospedale più vicino telefonando gratuitamente al n. tel. 100. Sicurezza PROPONI TESTO La situazione è tranquilla, non si segnalano problemi di particolare rilievo. Comportamenti PROPONI TESTO Gli scozzesi, come gli inglesi fanno la coda, sempre. Quindi, mettetevi in fila ed aspettate il vostro turno non solo in banca se dovete cambiare denaro, o alle poste se dovete comperare dei francobolli, ma anche alle fermate dei bus se siete in attesa di salire sul primo mezzo che passa. Viaggiare con bambini PROPONI TESTO Nessuno ha ancora proposto contenuti per questa parte della guida, vuoi farlo tu? Per poter compiere questa operazione devi esserti registrato ed aver effettuato l'accesso sul sito. Per maggiori informazioni sulla registrazione clicca sul pulsante qui a destra! Viaggiatori disabili PROPONI TESTO In Scozia molti luoghi di interesse turistico non sono attrezzati per consentire al viaggiatore disabile un'agevole visita mentre alcuni risultano essere addirittura inaccessibili (per es., il castello di Edimburgo è accessibile mentre non lo sono molti altri castelli scozzesi). Per quanto riguarda l'alloggio, sebbene si assista ad un sempre maggior numero di strutture attrezzate per accogliere il viaggiatore disabile, è sempre meglio informarsi in anticipo sull'effettiva accessibilità. Anche i pub non sempre sono accessibili e, per quanto riguarda i mezzi di trasporto, le maggiori difficoltà si incontrano nella fruizione dei traghetti per le isole. Il parcheggio è gratuito per i veicoli dotati di contrassegno per invalidi (per maggiori info: www.handylex.org). Curiosità PROPONI TESTO L'antica società celtica aveva stabilito relazioni complesse tra i suoi abitanti. Un tratto distintivo era costituito dal clan. Clann in gaelico significava discendenza, quindi originariamente il clan era una famiglia che riconosceva come suo capo il padre, al quale succedeva di diritto il figlio maggiore. Il termine tipicamente scozzese di mac o mc significa nient'altro che figlio. Lentamente, con il passare dei secoli, il termine clan ampliò il suo significato e venne a designare tutti coloro che riconoscevano l'autorità del capo; ne scaturì un sistema tribale fondato sul rispetto dell'ordine costituito e sulla lealtà. Lo spirito del clan sopravvive in Scozia ancor oggi: le cosiddette clan societies sono organizzazioni che raggruppano i membri di uno stesso clan ovunque essi vivano (Ian Campbell, dodicesimo duca di Argyll, invia ogni mese il giornale del clan ai 13 milioni di Campbell sparsi nel mondo; 6 milioni sono invece i Mac Donald, compresi i titolari della famosa catena di fast food americana). Il particolarismo dei clan si esplica nel tartan, il tessuto con motivi e colori diversi per ogni clan che i membri del clan sono obbligati a portare, obbligo che risale al XVIII sec. In tempi antichi il tartan, tinto con colori ricavati da piante e radici locali (il verde si ricavava da muschi e licheni, il blu e il viola dal mirtillo e dall'iris, il giallo dalla ginestra ecc.), aveva un disegno semplice mentre oggi disegni e colori sono assai più complessi e, talvolta, di dubbia autenticità. I veri scozzesi snobbano questi tartan dell'ultima ora e riconoscono come autentici solo quelli tessuti con i telai d'epoca di un'antica manifattura di Aberdeen. A seconda del tartan indossato venivano identificate a vista le varie tribù delle Highlands, ma oggi delle duemila fantasie originarie ne sono sopravvissute solo trentatre. Se volete saperne di più potete visitare il The Tartans Museum di Comrie e visionare il registro di tutti i tartan. |
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