The Irish Mail on Sunday

SCOTTISH STARS SHINE IN ALL WEATHERS

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START in Edinburgh and a 56-km drive takes you to the shadow of Stirling Castle, where nine-monthold Mary, Queen of Scots was crowned in 1543. Climb 250 spiral steps inside the Wallace Monument that celebrates the Braveheart legend. Stay amid ghosts at Witches Craig Caravan Park.

Take in the stunning scenery on the 48-km drive through the Trossachs to Loch Lomond. The famously reflective waters of Loch Achray are nearby. Stay at loch-side Cashel Campsite.

Ben Nevis awaits after a 144km drive to Fort William. Climb it yourself or climb aboard the Jacobite steam train that’s like a real-life Hogwarts Express. Enjoy incredible views at Glen Nevis Caravan and Camping Park.

Pack a picnic and look for monsters on the 112-km drive alongside Loch Ness to Inverness. Shakespear­e-lovers can search for a copy of Macbeth in Leakey’s Bookshop, one of the most beautiful in the world, before heading to nearby Cawdor Castle. Stay at Bunchrew Caravan Park.

A 48-km drive south takes you to sporty Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park. Hiking, biking and canoeing are draws in summer, but it’s equally easy to relax. The town is well known for its craft beer. Stay at Oakwood Caravan Park.

There’s more activity 88km south in Pitlochry, where you can try whitewater rafting on the River Tay or take guided climbs in nearby canyons. Stay at Blair Castle Caravan Park.

After a 48-km drive, there are museums and galleries galore in Perth. Stay at Scone Camping and Caravannin­g Club site, then it’s 64km back to Edinburgh.

 ??  ?? NOVEL SETTING: Browse the beautiful Leakey’s store in Inverness
NOVEL SETTING: Browse the beautiful Leakey’s store in Inverness

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