Last year we spent our May half term holiday in Scotland. It was only my second ever trip there and the very first for my boys and husband.  Our first port of call was a trip to Gretna Green before we set off for a few days in Edinburgh to see the castle, take part on the Chocolatarium tour and visit the Camera Obscura attraction.

Then it was up to Loch Ness to try and spot Nessie. We loved our Loch Ness cruise it cost £52.00 for the four of us. But both the boys had a go at steering the boat which they thoroughly enjoyed!

After that it was off to Falkirk where we had a ride on the Falkirk Wheel (the world’s only rotating boat lift!). Followed by a visit to the Kelpies, the beautiful 30 metre high horse statues.

We even made time to have an incredible afternoon tea at Callendar House, such a gorgeous building.

We ended our trip in Loch Lomond to check out the lake. I had the most amazing bubble waffle there too! Loch Lomond shores is definitely worth a visit to shop and eat! We really had the most amazing time in Scotland. I am tempted to look at caravan holidays homes to continue with our Scottish adventures, covering more ground this time. Perhaps making it a regular thing. There are so many more places I want to visit, and Scotland really did cause quite an impact on us.

Here are my five reasons why you should visit Scotland:

The Drive Is Breath Taking

Some road journeys can be quite dull. However, what we found with Scotland was the drive was nothing short of breath taking with spectacular views. There were some beautiful stop offs you can take on your way. Pitlochry would be high up our list, for one they had an incredible tearoom, the selection of cakes was mouth-watering.

Embrace The Rural Way Of Life

My boys loved meeting highland cows up close, they seemed to have such friendly temperaments and are very docile. I think next time we return to Scotland we might like to take part in some of the farm experiences the country has to offer.

The Castles

We loved Edinburgh and Urquhart Castle, however there are so many more to visit. We were fortunate to have Cadw membership so had free entrance to both, which is a huge saving. Scotland is rich in history. Plus, some of the castles have a fairy tale quality about them which I love. Visit Scotland have compiled a list of the sixteen most enchanting castles in Scotland to give you an idea where to get started.

The Food (and drink!)

Scotland is famous for its fresh fish, lobster, grouse and whisky. You really can go on a culinary adventure during your holiday. We didn’t brave haggis, but I might feel more daring on my next trip! My eldest loved all the irn bru items in Scotland, from jelly babies, to fudge and bon bons if you have a taste of the drink, you will be in for a treat! My husband enjoyed his introduction to tattie scones during his traditional Scottish cooked breakfast at the Loch Ness Inn in Drumnadrochit.

The Warmth Of Its People

Scots are known as being friendly and agreeable according to studies. We had a warm welcome on our stay. Everyone in the hospitality trade was very accommodating. I can totally see why Scotland was voted the most welcoming country in the world.

Given all of this it’s no wonder we are so eager to return.