DK Travel : Scotland

Scotland has an overwhelming abundance of natural beauty, hundreds of castles stand proud from its long and turbulent past, and an innate flair for enterprise and travel has endowed the nation with artistic treasures from around the world. The culture remains vibrant today, and there’s much to celebrate. Here’s a distillation of Scotland’s best.

River Tweed

The “Queen of salmon rivers” has the highest number of fly-catches of any British river. Autumn brings the greatest run, but purists say the quality of the smaller spring run is better. Beats are £30–£600 per rod per day. The Borders Tourist Office produce an excellent free guide Fishing in the Scottish Borders .
Robert Burns (1759–96)

The national poet whose worldwide acclaim has titled him “the bard of humanity”.
Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–94)

Best remembered for Treasure Island , this revered Edinburgh author travelled widely and died in Samoa.
Rock Ness

Fatboy decided to do a gig on Loch Ness last summer. It turned into an all day event, with other DJs such as Mylo and Carl Cox playing. The setting was amazing - in the basin of Loch Ness, the Loch in front of you and mountains surrounding you. And it didn't even rain too much - there were even a few burnt noses by the end of the day!

This is to become an annual event; the current rumour is that it will be a 2 day event this year (9th-10th June), one day bands, the other dance.

Have a look at http://www.rockness.co.uk/
Rogano

A wonderful place to imbibe, in equal measure, splendid cocktails and the Art Deco surrounds. Expensive in the main restaurant but fresh seafood a bargain in the brasserie.
Rosslyn Chapel

As extraordinary as it is mysterious. You’d be hard pushed to cram more carvings into such a small place – and what carvings! Built in 1446, it seems that every master mason had to do a turn here, such is the variety of styles and subjects. Most curious of all are the carvings of New World plants. They predate Columbus’s transatlantic voyage of discovery by one hundred years – experts are dumbfounded, but the results speak for themselves.
Rotative Steam Engine: James Watt (1736–1819)

While repairing a working model of a steam engine, Watt noticed deficiencies in its operation and hit upon a way to increase its efficiency threefold. His greatly improved engine had radical consequences for mechanical transport and industrialization.
Rothesay Castle, Bute

By virtue of its age, design and deep-water moat (one of only two remaining in Scotland), this is a remarkable medieval castle. Built around 1098 in the days of Norse occupation, it was restyled in the 13th century and fitted with high curtain walls and drum towers. Its circular courtyard is a curious feature and unique in Scotland. Bute itself is a mere 35-minute crossing from Wemyss Bay – north of Largs on the A78 – to Rothesay Bay; an even shorter crossing is from Colintraive to Rhubodach, on the north coast of the island.
Rowardennan Youth Hostel, nr Drymen

One of the busiest youth hostels because of its location: on the banks of Loch Lomond and also on the West Highland Way walking path (see West Highland Way) . Ben Lomond sweeps up at the back and at the front is a private beach. Very popular with families, so book ahead.
Royal Botanic Garden

Scotland’s premier garden with trees, shrubs and flowers from around the world. Everything from hothouse palm trees and gigantic lilies to dwarf cacti and orchids. Look out for special events, and the guided tours will feed a curiosity you may never have realized you had (see Royal Botanic Garden) .

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under £15
- £15–£25
- £25–£35
- £35–£50
- over £50
Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under £50
- £50–100
- £100–150
- £150–200
- over £200