Scotland - Useful information for your trip

Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom, it is located in the northern part of Great Britain and covers about one third of the total area of the island.

It is lapped by the Atlantic ocean on the north-west, the North Sea on the east and on the south it borders England. Its territory can be divided into three macro-areas: Highlands, a mountainous region with ragged coasts because of fjords, and covered by moors. The Central Lowlands is a rift valley which includes the river Tay, Forth and Clyde. Finally, the Southern Uplands, another mountain region with lower peaks compared to the Highlands. The weather is subject to the influence of the oceanic streams, that form some low pressure points, where the precipitations are abundant all year long. The summer is also cool and windy.

The local flora and fauna are characterized by some unique species. In fact, Scotland boasts some rare animals that are not present in the rest of Europe, such as the Rum mouse, the Soay sheep, a wild Scottish sheep and the red deer. In order to safeguard and preserve this rareness, some national parks and protected areas have been established. Cairngorms National Park hosts a wide variety of landscapes, which include mountains, rainforests and suggestive lakes. It is also the home of some endangered animals. In addition, in the park it is possible to practice adventurouse open-air activities. While, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park was the first national park, it represents the perfect habitat for the wildlife, thanks to its green mountains and its forests.

Scotland is also popular for its fascinating castles, which hide the compelling  stories of ancient people and loves. The village of Aberdeen hosts a route along which it is possible to discover the mysteries of 17 unmissable fortresses. Beyond the medieval architecture, Scotland also provides amazing luxurious palaces belonging to the Victorian time, and an eclectic style of modern architecture.

Also the sectors of art and local handicraft are higly developed, here, an uncountable numbers of local objects are producted with traditional methods, from jewelry to clothes. Each village has its own local tradition, that is worth to be discovered.