Edinburgh

It’s a must do while in Edinburgh.  It’s featured in films like Cloud Atlas, One Day, and Eurovision. It’s even said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter! Check out the shops, grab a drink at one of the coffee shops or restaurants, and be sure to take some pictures of this gorgeous street with its winding road and popping colors.

This historic castle sits atop Castle Rock high above the city of Edinburgh. Humans have occupied the area with some form of a fortress since the 2nnd century. The first royal castle was built in the 12th century and has continued to present time. The castle is currently home to the Scottish crown jewels, which is worth the price of admission alone. Since the 12th century the castle has gone th...

Calton hill is a great place and one of the easiest places to watch a beautiful Scottish sunset....as long as the weather cooperates. I tried for three days in a row to catch a great sunset from the top of Calton Hill. I was able to capture an average sunset, but nothing like the amazing pictures I've seen. My pictures don't do this cool and easy stop in Edinburgh justice. The hike is more of a...

Catch a beautiful sunrise (or sunset) from the top of Arthur's Seat. Although you are in the middle of Scotland's capital, you will feel as if you've reached the Highlands. The surrounding, panoramic views, the awesome silence, and the absence of urbanity, from certain viewpoints, makes this a very special spot. Start 1.5 hours before sunrise from the Scottish Parliament, located next to Holyro...

Just a 1.5 mile walk from Edinburgh Castle is the Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh.  It’s worth a stop and you could easily spend 1-4 hours here. Plus, it’s a fun walk from downtown Edinburgh.  There’s plenty of shops and restaurants along the walk, or just soak in the architecture. Additionally, you’ll be right by the Water of Leith river once you arrive at the Gardens.   The plants are beaut...

Run along the Forth, that leads out to the Atlantic Ocean, in Edinburgh at the Portobello Beach Promenade. Accessible by bus, Portobello Beach is generally a quiet and sleepy town. The promenade runs for 2 miles and because both the boardwalk and beach are wide. It is perfect for runners and cyclists. 

This is a very memorable hike that cuts through open fields and has great views of Edinburgh and its surrounding area. The ascent up Cockleroy Hill is quite challenging as it is very steep, but you'll have sheep to keep you company as you make your way up (don't get too close to the sheep, however). You'll be hiking parallel to a fence that you'll want to follow as it leads to the top of the hi...

Dumyat (pronounced De-mai-it) is a hill in Stirling Scotland measuring 1,371 ft. To arrive at the "Dumyat Path", from Stirling center head towards the University of Stirling via Airthrey Rd. As soon as you have passed the roundabout and University Rd West, you will be looking for your next right Kenilworth Rd, where you will again look for your next right, Sheriffmuir Rd, from here you will dri...

There is no better way to start your morning than by waking up to a picturesque sunrise and warm cup of coffee.  In Scotland, where a beautiful day is when it only rains half the day, catching a sunrise can be a bit of a challenge. But with a mix of rain, the sun piercing through the clouds and a 1,000 year old castle over your shoulder, it doesn't get much more rewarding than that.  Just to th...