In this corner of Scotland you are never too far from a castle. A selection of thirteen of the world’s most unique and striking castles can be found on Scotland’s Castle Trail – discover secret passages and ghosts and view a wealth of historic furnishings, paintings, arms and armour.

royal deeside
Royal Deeside is a very special place. Queen Victoria described it as her “dear highland paradise”. The Victoria Heritage Trail includes Balmoral Castle, Crathie Church, Royal Lochnagar Distillery, the Old Royal Station at Ballater and many favoured scenic spots along the way.

cairngorms national park
The Cairngorms is the largest National Park in the UK incorporating the most beautiful and spectacular mountain scenery. The variety of landscape is a haven for wildlife including golden eagles, capercaillie, red squirrels and deer together with many rare and beautiful plants and flowers