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History Buff? Enjoy Scotland Castle Vacations

Published at 02/25/2012 18:03:22

Introduction

Scotland is one of the most popular travel destinations for history buffs, especially those interested in taking castle vacations. The country has hundreds of castles for visitors to tour, some of which date back to ancient times. Tourists can choose a particular region to explore or travel around the country to visit the most well-known castles. While some castles are still in use, others have been in ruins for centuries. Visitors who want a more personal castle experience can stay in one of the many castle accommodations the country offers.

Famous Castles

Scotland offers visitors the chance to tour some very famous castles. Scottish castle vacations should include trips to Eilean Donan, Stirling and Edinburgh Castles. Eilean Donan, located in the western highlands region, is one of the most photographed castles in the world. Visitors can explore almost every area of this 13th century castle, which is home to Clan Macrae. Stirling Castle, which is situated on Castle Hill in Scotland's former capital, consists of several buildings. Some of these date back to the 12th century, while others were built between 1490 and 1600. The castle is associated with the Scottish Wars of Independence. Edinburgh Castle, located on the Royal Mile in the Old Town section of Edinburgh, also offers several buildings for tourists to explore. Edinburgh Castle has been in use as a royal residence since the 12th century. Guided tours are available at all of these castles, or visitors can explore them on their own.

Abandoned Treasures

Visitors who wish to explore abandoned places during their castle vacations have several options throughout Scotland. The impressive ruins of Tantallon Castle, which overlooks the turbulent waters of the North Sea, provides tourists with the opportunity to wander through a 14th century fortress. Tantallon is located in the southern part of Scotland near North Berwick. Visitors in the highlands can explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle, which sits on the gloomy shores of Loch Ness. Urquhart, which dates back to the 6th century, has several areas that tourists can walk through. Those who wish to see an abandoned 15th century in a picturesque setting should visit Kilchurn Castle, which is located at the northern end of Loch Awe. Though smaller than Tantallon and Urquhart, Kilchurn provides some very scenic photo opportunities. 

Castle Accommodations

Tourists who aren't content to merely visit places on their castle vacations can book a stay in a castle that serves as an accommodation. Visitors should be aware that rates for castle stays can be much more costly than those of hotels or bed and breakfasts. One of the reasons for this is that castles often include luxurious amenities that more modest accommodations don't offer. Some castles offer guests the opportunity to do activities. An example of this is Dalhousie Castle, which is located near Edinburgh. Dalhousie offers activities such as falconry and archery right on the grounds of the castle. Although the rates are high, staying in this castle gives guests a chance to experience what it is like to spend the night in a historical place. Staying in one of these accommodations instead of a hotel can provide a much more memorable experience than average castle vacations. 

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