GolfScotland, where golf was invented, is home to some of the world’s most famous golf courses, notably the
Old Course at St Andrews – the historic ‘home of golf’ (the prestigious
Open Championship in July 2000 was held here). In total, Scotland has some 500 courses. Further
Open Championship courses can be found in
Carnoustie,
Muirfield,
Royal Troon and
Turnberry. In addition, there is an abundance of world-class courses, such as
Blairgowrie,
Downfield,
Murcar,
Nairn,
North Berwick,
Royal Aberdeen,
Royal Dornoch,
Southerness and
Western Gailes. Also available
is a fine selection of natural links courses in the outlying areas. For details of golfing holidays, membership and golf courses, contact VisitScotland (see
Top Things To Do section).
EquestrianismOne of the most popular equestrian activities is pony trekking on the native Scottish Highland pony. Beginners can try a one- or two-hour trek, while experienced riders may opt for a full day- or week-long trek. Many riding centers offer unaccompanied children’s holidays with the possibility of adopting a pony for a week. In the southeastern Borders area, which is known as ‘Scotland’s horse country’, and where horses play an important part in local festivities, accommodation often comes equipped with stables. Further information can be obtained from The British Horse Society (Scotland) (tel: (01764) 656 334; website:
www.bhsscotland.org.uk).
CyclingScotland has an extensive network of signposted cycling routes and off-road trails for mountain biking. On small country roads there is often little traffic. Bicycle hire and cycling tours are available throughout Scotland. Bicycle transport facilities are widespread on Scottish trains, notably on
InterCity services (between London and Scotland), where no extra charge applies (although reservations are compulsory). It is advisable to check in advance if a train will carry bicycles.
FishingVisiting anglers must generally have permission, usually in the form of a permit, available from the local tackle dealer, fishing club or estate. Local tourist offices can supply information on fishing in their area, the cost of permits and where to get them. There is no closed season for coarse fishing, though the rule is rod only and it is forbidden to fish with two or more rods simultaneously. Scotland is one of the world’s best destinations for salmon fishing. The statutory closed season for salmon varies from river to river, but is generally from November 1 until February 10-15 (visitors should check with local tourist offices). Fly fishing is the most accepted and traditional method of fishing for salmon. There are also excellent opportunities for trout fishing. Glacial lochs are home to the elusive Char, usually found in deep water. Boats and guides can be hired from hotels and angling clubs. The statutory closed season for brown trout is from October 7 until March 14 (both days inclusive). Sea angling can be practiced along the coast, where boats and bait are supplied by local tourist offices and fishing clubs. More than 50 sea fishing festivals and competitions take place annually. VisitScotland's website
http://fish.visitscotland.com has more details on fishing, including regulations.
WatersportsThere are 2560km (1600 miles) of coastline and thousands of lochs and rivers. Inland, canoeing can be practiced on tranquil lochs or whitewater rafting on wild river stretches. Along the coast, a well-established sailing and yachting industry with modern marinas offers a range of sailing and boating facilities. Canal cruises are also possible, notably in the Crinan Canal, which links the Clyde and the West Coast of Scotland; and on the 96km- (60 mile-) long Caledonian Canal, with the option to charter a yacht, motor cruiser or stay on a hotel barge. A restoration project, the ‘Millennium Link’, restored 110km (69 miles) of the canal (from Glasgow to Edinburgh and the Forth to the Clyde). For further information on watersports, marinas, harbors and moorings, contact Sail Scotland Ltd (tel: (01309) 676 757; website:
www.sailscotland.co.uk).
Walking and hikingScotland’s variety of scenery – from rocky peaks, moorland and rolling green hills to lochs, glens, and wild coastlines – makes it ideal for walking. The vast network of trails is steadily growing. Short-distance walks can usually be completed in a day. For advice on the best routes, contact VisitScotland. The best-known long-distance walks include three ‘official’ trails – the West Highland Way (the busiest, 150km (95 miles) from Milngavie, north of Glasgow, to Fort William, passing through some spectacular Highland scenery, and quite strenuous in the second half); the Great Glen Way, 118km (73 miles) from Fort William to Inverness, opened in 2002, which can be combined with the West Highland Way; the less demanding Southern Upland Way (Britain’s first official coast-to-coast footpath, 340km (212 miles), from Portpatrick to Cockburnspath, passing through moorland, conifer plantations and crossing a few major rivers); and the Speyside Way (a lowland route, 101km (63 miles), from Buckie to Aviemore, running along one of Scotland’s most famous salmon-fishing rivers, the Spey). Part 1 of The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 which came into effect in February 2005 gives everyone a right to be on and to cross most land (including inland water) in Scotland, subject to some exceptions, provided that access is exercised responsibly. This applies to walkers, cyclists, horseriders, disabled on buggies, paragliders, cavers, canoeists etc. The right does not extend to mechanized vehicles such as 4x4s unless a route is a pre-existing right of way (rights of way not being affected by the Act). Guidance on exercising access responsibly is given in the Scottish Outdoors Access Code (website:
www.outdooraccess-scotland.com).
WildlifeRed deer, golden eagles, peregrine falcons and wildcat are some of the creatures inhabiting Scotland’s mountainous regions, while the lower slopes of the central Highlands provide a sanctuary for red squirrel, capercaillie, crested tit, Scottish crossbill and pine marten. Wild salmon, trout and otter can be found in Scotland’s abundant and spectacular lochs, one of which – Loch Ness – is also the reputed home of ‘Nessie’, the famously elusive Loch Ness monster.
WintersportsScotland has five ski resorts: Cairngorm, Glencoe, Glenshee, The Lecht and the Nevis range. Snowfall varies according to the altitude and is most consistent (particularly between November and May) in the Nevis range or Braeriach, in the Cairngorms. Snowboarding is possible at all five resorts. Mountaineering and climbing expeditions (including guides) are also widely available.
Spectator sportsThe most popular spectator sports are rugby and football, while the annual
Highland Games season also attracts many visitors.
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