Five of Scotland’s Most Romantic Places.
With Valentine's Day just around the corner, we wanted to highlight why Scotland has a reputation for being one of the world's most romantic places. Did you know that Glasgow is reportedly the last resting place of St Valentine himself?
But there is more to it than that!
Scotland is indeed a land of great beauty. There is no shortage of breath-taking scenery, with landscapes that have inspired writers and artists for centuries. Scotland is also the setting for many popular historical novels, including Diana Gabaldon's Outlander. From deserted white beaches to wild landscapes with mist veiled mountains, there are plenty of dramatic settings for even the most passionate literary bestseller.
It is not just the artists that go weak at the knees over our stunning scenery; Scotland's incredible sights are perfect for anyone visiting with the one they love.
Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
Hidden in the glens of Skye, at the foot of the Black Cuillin mountains, the magical Fairy Pools are truly a wonder to behold. A series of small waterfalls rush from the rugged landscape into pristine pools of various sizes, the clear water flowing between each. Visitors must trek through the heather and peat for a mile and a half before reaching the water pools, and such a breath-taking sight after the walk makes it a perfect romantic trip for couples.
Loch Lomond
There is a reason that Scotland's best-known ballad was inspired by Loch Lomond. It is spectacularly beautiful and the perfect place for any romantic getaway. Lovers that do manage to meet on the bonnie, bonnie banks are sure to be luckier than the song's protagonist. Stroll along the idyllic loch side or take a romantic cruise on the water. Both have led to many proposals, and it is easy to see why.
The loch is situated in the Trossachs, an area of such outstanding beauty it inspired Sir Walter Scott to write his famous poem The Lady of the Lake. The poem is set amongst sparkling lochs and atmospheric forests and includes a love triangle or square since three men compete to win the heart of one girl, Ellen Douglas.
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most iconic in the world. Built-in the 13th century as the stronghold of Clan Mackenzie, it sits upon an island where three sea lochs meet, (Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh). Surrounding the castle, its island and the three lochs are the forested mountains of Kintail. The sight is magical, and couples from all over the world have tied the knot there. The castle is one of Scotland's most recognisable images, featuring upon many a biscuit tin and calendar.
Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park
There can be nothing more romantic than stargazing, and Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park offers couples a unique chance for some interstellar bonding. A Dark Sky Park is a place with extremely dark night skies. Controlling light pollution is the key to keeping those skies dark. Couples can share the spotting of a shooting star, marvelling at the rare Andromeda Galaxy, and experiencing the beauty of the Aurora Borealis together.
Orkney
The Orkney Islands are beautiful, and it was voted the UK's most romantic place in 2015 by Mills and Boon. Orkney's pristine beaches perfect for windswept walks. Lucky couples might spot a selkie! Selkies are seals, as well as being mythical creatures. Folklore says that the selkie sheds their skin and takes human form to seduce or be seduced by land dwellers. Anyone spotting a selkie on the beaches of Orkney just might get more than they bargained for.
There are jewellery makers on the Orkney Islands who can craft the perfect ring for those so overcome they are ready to pop the question. Such is the power of beautiful Scottish scenery (and Mills and Boon)!
We may not be able to explore these beautiful places for St Valentine's Day, 2021. This year is the year of candlelight dinners at home, and cosy film-watching, but - and don't let us down 2022 - hopefully soon we can start exploring more of Scotland's magnificent scenery.
If you are looking for a last-minute gift for your loved one on Valentine's Day, don't forget to check out our online shop.
Pictures courtesy of Visit Scotland (www.visitscotland.com)