Scotland is a politically independent country in north-western Europe. It is one of the four nations that make up the United Kingdom and shares a southern 60 mile land border with England. Scotland’s capital city is Edinburgh, its largest city is Glasgow, and its other important centres include Dundee, Perth, Aberdeen and Inverness.

Tourists flock to Scotland throughout the year to enjoy its diverse and rugged landscape and experience its rich cultural history. It is a country of deep lochs, snowy peaks, and windswept tundra, dotted with regal castles, country estates and charming hamlets. This is the home of Robbie Burns and tartan, the land of bagpipes and golf, the mother of haggis and Gaelic. Surely no trip to Scotland can be complete without blazing the whisky trails, marauding the Highlands, and seeing the Saltire flutter atop Edinburgh Castle.

Staying at Scottish bed and breakfasts, guest houses and travellers’ inns is an authentic and rewarding way to experience this diverse land. The Scots are a most welcoming and hospitable people, be prepared to be offered a wee dram.