So you’re in love…congrats! The world is now dipped in a rose gold hue, and everything in it is overwhelmingly beautiful, right? Well, get yourselves to Scotland for some of the most romantic spots in Europe, and soak up all your newfound bliss without emptying your pockets.
Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh
It doesn’t cost anything to walk up this formidable rocky outcrop behind Edinburgh, which is arguably one of the most romantic cities in the world. Head up onto Arthur’s Seat at sunset and watch the shadows fall over the dark, narrow streets, or get there at dawn as the city is bathed in love’s first light.
Woodman’s Hut, Cairngorms
If there’s a woodland retreat more romantic than this, our hearts may explode. This idyllic rural eco-cabin is nestled deep in the woods, overlooking the spectacular peaks of Cairngorms National Park. Heated by a cozy wood-burner and illuminated with candle lanterns, guests can snuggle up beneath a stargazing window on the indulgent king-size bed. Oh, and there’s a woodfired hot tub in the garden and a dry-heat sauna just two minutes away…swoon.
Eilean Donan Castle, Dornie
Located on the way to the phenomenally beautiful Isle of Skye, Eilean Donan Castle is a mirror image of the rugged, bleak and windswept landscape that surrounds it. The castle is stranded on an island where three lochs meet, and access is restricted to just an ancient stone bridge – that is, unless you decide to row across.
Glenfinnan Viaduct, Highland
A viaduct? OK, it might not sound desperately romantic, but the archaic Glenfinnan Viaduct is a thing of beauty nestled within the dramatic landscape of the Western Highlands. If you’re feeling up to it, hop on board the old-fashioned Jacobite steam train that runs passengers across à la Hogwarts Express. Alternatively, roughing it in second class on a regular train from Glasgow will do the trick.
Calgary Bay, Isle of Mull
It doesn’t get much more romantic than spending a night beneath the stars on the pure white sands of Calgary Bay. Free wild camping in this northernmost spot equals desolate and heavenly. There are all the modern conveniences — parking and public restrooms — but no caravans or motor homes allowed.
St. Andrews Cathedral, St. Andrews
It’s no coincidence that St Andrews is the U.K.’s number one destination for falling in love: the sheer beauty of the place inspires it. The dramatic ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral are especially sublime, and demonstrate the scale and magnificence of a cathedral that was once the biggest in Scotland.
Featured image: © Ron Chapple Stock/iStock/Thinkstock
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose guides cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas.
