Wednesday, September 26

4 Scottish Gems a Day’s Drive from Edinburgh with Migrating Miss



About the blogger: Originally from New Zealand, Sonja is a travel blogger based in Edinburgh. Having been to over 40 countries and lived in 6, she spends her days blogging on Migrating Miss, freelance writing and planning future travels.

Although summer is on its way out, autumn is just as good a reason/season to get out of the city and hit the road for quick trip or short break. As temperatures cool and the landscapes turn to shades of red, yellow and brown, an autumn road trip can be as refreshing as it is colourfully picturesque. 

Scotland is the perfect place for such a trip; with a variety of attractions that mix the beautiful countryside with its rich and historical culture. For some ideas a new road trip taking in 10 hidden gems a day’s drive from Edinburgh has been created by local blogger Sonja Bolger with car hire company Avis. Four of the locations that Sonja chose are detailed below. 


The Kelpies 

A perfect example of wondrous art set in equally astounding nature, the Kelpies are a fantastic gem to visit. Found in Helix Park in Falkirk, just under an hour’s drive from Edinburgh, the metallic horse head sculptures are 30 metres high and weigh an amazing 300 tonnes – each! Created by Scottish artist Andy Scott, the horses were modelled on two local workhorses named Duke and Baron.


Doune Castle

If you’re on the hunt for history with a side of entertainment trivia, Doune Castle is the answer. Thanks to its pristine condition, it’s been used as a filming location in a variety of films and TV series; many of the castle scenes in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Winterfell Castle in Game of Thrones, and Castle Leoch in Outlander. Monty Python director Terry Jones even narrates the audio guide! The surrounding views of the countryside from the top of its tower are also awesome. Just over an hour’s drive from Edinburgh, Doune Castle is well worth the drive.

Photo credit: National Trust Scotland
Culross Palace

Another historical gem with modern fame, Culross Palace has seen a new wave of tourism thanks to being used in the TV series Outlander. Once belonging to wealthy Scottish merchant Sir George Bruce, it’s particularly eye catching due to its distinctive yellow colour and beautiful floral gardens. Culross is also an incredibly pretty town, with cobblestone streets and grand medieval architecture and monuments.



Luss Smokehouse

Situated on the edge of Loch Lomond, Luss is a charming small town that’s an ideal place for a day trip. There are a variety of shops selling trinkets, tartans and all sorts of local produce. One that stands out is The Luss Smokehouse, a fish smoker and shop selling locally caught salmon and trout. They also sell picnic hampers, sandwiches, and other delicious treats such as local fudge. Grab a bite and enjoy by the tranquil waters of Loch Lomond – probably one of the most scenic spots in the UK.


To learn more about these Scottish gems and to see Sonja’s other choices, please check out the Edinburgh Road Trip here.

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