Scotland the best
Classic views
Scotland is spoilt for choice when it comes to stunning panoramas, such as these must-sees Quirang
The Quirang Skye Best approach is from Uig direction taking the right-hand unclassified road off the hairpin of the A855 above and 2km from town signed Staffin via Quirang (more usual approach from Staffin side is less of a revelation). View and walk from car park, the massive rock formations of a towering, contorted ridge. Solidified lava heaved and eroded into fantastic pinnacles. Fine views also across Staffin Bay to Wester Ross. Flodigarry Hotel has a big view from the terrace.
Califer
7km from Forres on A96 to Elgin, turn right signed for Pluscarden, follow this road for 5km back towards Forres. You are unaware how high above the coastal plain you are and the lay-by is discreetly located. When you walk across a small park with young memorial trees you are rewarded with a truly remarkable sight – down across Findhorn Bay and the wide vista of the Moray Firth to the Black Isle and Ben Wyvis.
Dundee Law
Few cities have such a single good viewpoint. To the north, it reveals the panoramic perspective of the city on the estuary of the silvery Tay, with its emerging exciting waterfront. Route to Law Road not easy to follow but walk from town or satnav/Google.
Carter Bar
On the A68 Edinburgh–Newcastle road, the last and first view in Scotland just happens to be superb. The Border hill country spread out before you for many long miles. The tear in my eye is not because of the wind, but because this was the landscape of my youth and where I spent my lightsome days. In 2014, I was privileged to give The Address to the Redeswire Stone, which marks the last skirmish between the Scots and English in 1575. It’s 200m east of the car park. Peter Irvine is the author of the essential travel guide Scotland the Best published by Collins, priced £15.99