Edinburgh Castle, the most iconic of them all, has a history that dates back to at least the 12th century. It served as a royal residence and a military stronghold, playing pivotal roles in numerous historical conflicts. Today, it is one of Scotland’s top tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year who come to explore its impressive military museums and historic sites.

Not far from the city center lies Craigmillar Castle, often overshadowed by its more famous counterpart. This castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Scotland and offers a glimpse into the life of the Scottish nobility. Built in the 14th century, it served as a refuge for Mary, Queen of Scots, and provides visitors with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely exploration.

Then there’s the enchanting Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. With a history filled with stories of royal intrigue and political drama, this palace is home to the magnificent State Apartments and the ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey. It’s a location where visitors can truly immerse themselves in Scotland’s regal heritage.

Each castle reflects distinct architectural styles, showcasing the evolution of construction techniques over the centuries. Visitors can admire everything from the sturdy battlements and towers of medieval castles to the elegant baroque features of later structures. These castles not only serve as a reminder of Scotland’s tumultuous past but also as an opportunity to learn about the cultural heritage that has shaped modern Scottish identity.

Tourism around these historical sites has significantly contributed to Edinburgh’s local economy. As visitors flock to see the castles, local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour guides, experience a boom. Special events, such as guided tours and historical reenactments, give tourists a chance to engage more authentically with the past.

Moreover, Edinburgh’s castles are not just relics of history; they continue to be active sites of interest with various events held throughout the year. For instance, during the Edinburgh Festival and the Royal Military Tattoo, the castle becomes a backdrop for vibrant performances and celebrations that enchant both locals and visitors alike.

Looking ahead, the continued preservation efforts aim to maintain the structural integrity of these ancient buildings while enhancing visitor experience. This involves balancing the need for modern amenities with historical authenticity, ensuring that future generations can appreciate these important pieces of Scottish heritage.

What is the significance of Edinburgh Castle?

Edinburgh Castle is a symbol of Scottish national identity and has served various roles throughout history, including as a royal residence and military stronghold.

Which castle is less known but also historically important?

Craigmillar Castle, though less famous, is well-preserved and has significant historical ties to Mary, Queen of Scots.

How do these castles impact local tourism?

The castles attract millions of visitors each year, significantly boosting the local economy through tourism-related activities and services.

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Not every garden in the world is just well-shaped bushes and trees + fountains + benches. Sometimes gardens keep interesting stories, tell the tales of the Universe or provide inspiration for the paintings of famous artists. Choose your next fairy-tale trip in one of these stunning colorful spots.

Keukenhof, the Netherlands

Flowers in Keukenhof | ©Maria Angelova/203challenges

This garden sees seven million flowers, hand-planted every year. There are more than 100 varieties of tulips alone. Almost one million people a year visit the park. It is located not far from Amsterdam, near the town of Lisse. Open only March – May.

The Garden of Cosmic Speculation, Scotland

Garden of Cosmic Speculation, Scotland | John Lord/Flickr

If Alice’s Wonderland did exist, then it would certainly be in Dumfries, Scotland under the name of the Garden of Cosmic Speculation. Inspired by science and mathematics, black holes, DNA molecules and parallel universes, the architect Charles Jencks has created this unusual space as living proof that logic and creativity are not always mutually exclusive. The garden is private but usually opens on one day each year through the Scotland’s Gardens program and raises money for Maggie’s Centres, a cancer care charity named for Maggie Keswick Jencks, the late wife of Charles Jencks.

Miracle Garden, Dubai

Miracle Gardens, Dubai | Srilatha Sharma/Flickr

It is hard to imagine that the biggest flower garden could appear in the middle of a desert, but for years now Dubai has been showing the world it is a land of paradoxes. Dubai Miracle Garden spreads over an area of 72,000 sq. m (775,000 sq. ft) and features more than 45 million flowers, 4 km (3 mi) of passages and walkways among the flowers, and a 1 km(1,000 yd) flower wall.

Monet’s Garden, France

Claude Monet’s garden in Giverny, France | David Alexander Elder/Flickr

If you’ve seen the painting with the lilies by the French artist Claude Monet and you wish to see it in real life, visit the artist’s house just outside Paris. Water lilies blooming or not, sitting in the garden of the father of Impressionism is like becoming part of one of his paintings: the Japanese footbridge is just before you, the house and the garden have been restored to their appearance from Monet’s time. 

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Glentress Forest
Nestled deep within the breathtaking Tweed Valley is this mountain biking Mecca. Glentress Forest has a challenging uphill start, but after this, you are in for a real treat with an incredible downhill stretch filled with jumps and berms along with amazing views of the area. This is sure to get your blood pumping and it is certainly not a trail for the faint of heart.

Fort William
Found in the wild western Scottish Highlands is the popular town of Fort William which is known as the gateway to Ben Nevis – the highest peak in the UK. Unsurprisingly, this makes it an excellent place for mountain bike enthusiasts and the Nevis Range resort has hosted the Mountain Bike World Cup a staggering 11 times. This proves quick access to the highly popular cross-country Witches Trails where there are trails for all abilities.

Kirroughtree
Kiroughtree is a place with excellent trails for all abilities at the world-class mountain biking center 7Stanes (found throughout Scotland). Here there are award-winning trails which attract mountain bike enthusiasts from around the world and particularly for the extreme downhill sections that are sure to test the nerve of even the most experienced riders. In order to conquer these trails and develop your skills, you need to make sure that you have a bike that you can rely on, so make sure that you are confident on your wheels before setting off.

Comrie Croft
Comoro Croft is somewhat of a hidden gem in the mountain biking world found at the foot of a mountain in the Highlands. It features hand built trails that cover the hillside with a number of brilliant and challenging trails to tackle, plus the idyllic setting and comfortable accommodation ensure that this is a great place for a relaxed stay.

Kinlochleven
Found in the Scottish Highlands in Lochaber, this peaceful village is a popular spot with mountain bike enthusiasts thanks to the legendary Dude’s of Hazzard Enduro – rugged terrain high above Kinlochleven with craggy slopes that will require great skills and concentration to master. It is also part of the longest established trails in The Ciaran Path which tracks the river from Blackwater Dam into Kinlochleven.

Torridon
Torridon in the Northwest Highlands does not feature handmade trails which gives it a wild, natural and rugged feel that any experienced mountain biker will appreciate. It is somewhat isolated which only adds to its charm and also ensures that you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding area while you ride.

Scotland is a superb place for a mountain biking holiday because of the wild, rugged and craggy landscape found in the Highlands. There are many fantastic places for an unforgettable mountain biking holiday and you will want to see as many of the above as possible during your trip.

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Sometimes your dreams need a bit of help to come true…

You don’t have to wait for a shooting star to make your wishes come true. There are plenty of places around the world which were made for rubbing, grinding, leaving coins and gifts, with the sole purpose of your most intimate desires coming to life. Let’s see where, what and how.

1. Whatever you want: The Erawan shrine in Bangkok

The Erawan shrine was erected in 1956 as a part of the national hotel Erawan, to neutralize the bad karma which, according to the locals, was accumulated because the hotel’s foundations were laid on the “wrong” day. The series of fatal incidents on the construction site came to an end when an astrologist’s suggestion led to the creation of a statue of the Phra Phrom God. The sanctuary is easily noticeable, as it is always covered in flowers and candles. They say that you need to leave a gift if you want a wish of yours to come true. Often you can see dancers performing next to the shrine – they have been hired by people who are hoping to have their wishes fulfilled.

How much does it cost: It’s free – it is up to you what gift you ll leave.

2. Love: Juliet’s House

Juliet’s house is a classic, if your secret desire is love. It doesn’t matter that Juliet never actually existed, she has the world-famous power of lighting fires in people s hearts, and even keeping the flames alive. Or so it seems at the entrance of her house in Verona, where the walls have been covered by pieces of paper, with names and dreams on all kinds of languages. This paper wall has collapsed a few times due to its weight. Go a bit further inside the house, into the yard, and you can line up to rub Juliet’s right breast for luck.

How much does it cost: Entrance to the yard is free of charge.

3. Whatever you want: The Wishing Bridge

In Jaffa, Israel, they have a Wishing Bridge, with figurines of all the zodiac signs. People say that if you touch the figurine corresponding to your zodiac sign, and stare into the sea, your wish will come true.

How much does it coast: It’s free.

4. Health: The Iron Pillar of New Delhi

This pillar is more than 1,600 years old and even the fact that it still stands is a miracle in itself. It remains a mystery how an iron pillar has managed to survive this many centuries in such a humid climate without falling prey to corrosion. They say, however, that the pillar will take care not only of its own needs, but of yours as well. All you have to do is walk around it and think of your wish. The pillar is located in the yard of the Qutb Minar mosque.

How much does it cost: You have to pay 250 rupees (about 3 euros) to enter the Qutb complex.

5. Money: the Wish Tree on Isle Maree

In the Scottish lake Loch Maree, there are a few islands, one of which is home to century-old oak trees. One of those oaks is different – they say that it’s magical and whoever squeezes a coin under its bark, will become rich. You can probably imagine what the tree looks like today – with thousands of coins piercing its bark. The truth is, however, that the original Wish tree, in which even Queen Victoria left a coin, rotted away long ago due to copper poisoning brought about by the numerous coins in its bark. Its substitute will probably suffer a similar fate.

How much does it cost: About 20 euros for a boat trip to the island.

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