Top 3 places to visit in Scotland's north-east

Wednesday, 21 December 2011 3:25 PM

Scotland is packed full of fascinating places to visit on a short break and the north-east of the country is certainly no exception. Here are some suggestions of three of the best attractions in the area that you should be sure not to miss during your stay.

When you start searching for Scottish holiday accommodation, you may want to base yourself near Aberdeen.

Often referred to as the Granite City due to the stone used in the construction of many of its buildings, there is certainly a lot to keep you occupied in the metropolis.

Whether you are keen to indulge in a spot of retail therapy, want to explore some museums or galleries, or would like to take a leisurely stroll through a beautiful park, Aberdeen will have something for you.

You can pay a visit to the Aberdeen Art Gallery, where you will find collections dating from the 15th century to the present day, before hitting Union Street - the gateway to the city's 800 or so shops!

Be sure to also pay a visit to the beach before you head back to your mansion in Scotland. The stretch of sand can be found approximately 1 mile outside the centre of the city and marks its eastern border.

If you want to see as much as possible during your short break in Scotland, you could follow all or part of the Speyside Whisky Trail.

This part of the nation is home to over half of Scotland's distilleries, so if you are keen to sample a wee dram or two, there is no better place to be.

You will notice some familiar names - like Glenfiddich and Glenlivet - can be found along the way, so if you are something of a connoisseur of the beverage, you are likely to be in your element.

Even if you are not well-versed in the various forms of malt whisky on offer, following the trail will provide you with the perfect way to learn more about how the drink is produced, as well as its history in Scotland and importance to the area's heritage.

There is one final landmark you should see during your break in the north-east of the country - Balmoral Castle.

This impressive estate is the home of the royal family in Scotland and has been used by the monarchy since Queen Victoria purchased it in 1848.

A trip here will encompass much more than exploring the building itself, however, as one of its great attractions is the grounds.

There are various different gardens here, ranging from those with formal designs to vegetable plots and wildlife areas.

A visit to see the castle is bound to be a great way to round off your time staying in mansions for rent in Scotland.
 

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