Our pocket guide to Scotland
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Scotland is renowned for its natural beauty, from the wild peaks of the Cairngorms and the bonny banks of Loch Lomond to Harris’s sugar-fine sands. Its cities, meanwhile, hum with creativity: Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music, and Edinburgh hosts the world’s largest arts festival, the Fringe. Across the country, chefs are celebrating Scotland’s larder – think field-to-fork dining in the Highlands and island bounty on Skye – while makers and designers are drawing inspiration from their heritage. Here is our guide to the best places to stay, shop, eat and explore.
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Stay
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Solas, The Isle of Harris
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Solas overlooks the paradisiacal shores of Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris. Days here might be spent exploring the island or recharging through contrast therapy – plunging into the aquamarine waters below before basking in the wood-fired hot tub or sauna with a view. And if you're lucky, the Northern Lights may put on a show.
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Shop
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Niki Jones, Glasgow
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Founded by interior designer Niki Jones, this homeware boutique features her own textiles and interior accessories, as well as curated pieces with a focus on traditional craftsmanship. From handcrafted rugs and patchwork throws to limited-edition ceramics made by Scottish artisans, each object tells a story.
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Eat
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Timberyard, Edinburgh
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Set in a converted warehouse, this family-run restaurant embraces a hyperlocal ethos, with house-fermented, cured and smoked ingredients elevated by foraged finds. Timberyard's tasting menus celebrate the best of the season, featuring dishes like white asparagus with sea kale and grilled langoustine dusted with fennel pollen.
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Explore
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Skye´s Trotternish Peninsula
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This northern region of Skye offers some of Scotland´s most distinctive scenery to explore, including the Old Man of Storr rock formation, the Quiraing landslip, and Kilt Rock´s basalt columns. Guided astronomy tours can be arranged at the recently established Skye Stargazing Centre near Uig, one of Europe´s darkest sky areas.
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Wrap Christmas up early
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Already ticking off the present list? Consider the gift of adventure this Christmas. Unique Homestays gift vouchers are designed for those who favour experiences over things.
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