Travel news
Robert Burns was certainly onto something when he wrote about autumn in Scotland and its tendency to stir the soul. It’s a time for orange and red leaves, lazy afternoon walks, cosy jumpers, a warm bowl of soup.
There’s still time to plan for a trip to Scotland this autumn, whether this is spent indoors and indulging in Còsagach (Scotland’s version of hygge). Enjoy the outdoors and taking in the beautiful scenery or explore some history and local gems.
Our friends at Visit Scotland suggest some autumnal inspiration for an escape not too far from home. Seeing the autumn colours in Scotland should be on everyone’s bucket list. With seven out of the 10 largest forests in the UK in Scotland, visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to immersing themselves in fiery scenery during woodland walks.
Faskally Forest, Perthshire
Take a wander around the “forester’s classroom”, where some of the wide variety of tree species are over 200 years old. Within Faskally Forest and close to the car park lies the wonderfully tranquil Loch Dunmore, with its boat house and picturesque timber footbridge.
Killin, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
Fuelled by the autumn rain, the Falls of Dochart make for a spectacular sound and sight as the water cascades over the rocks and under the bridge. Follow part of the 12-mile route from Killin to Ardtalnaig, along the famous Rob Roy Way, for views over the head of Loch Tay towards Ben Lawers.
Dawyck Botanic Garden, Borders
Take in the fiery colours at Dawyck Botanic Garden as well as the autumn fruits; from acorns to crab apples, maple keys to fir cones and everyone’s favourites, the conkers produced by the horse chestnut trees. The garden is a feast for all the senses; take in the gorgeous caramel scent of the large Japanese Katsura tree.
University buildings, Old Aberdeen
Check out the New King’s building at the University of Aberdeen in autumn for something very special indeed: watch in awe as the ivy scaling the building turns a deep shade of red early in the season. Also check out the colours of the season at Crathes Castle, just outside Aberdeen.
For more inspiration, visit visitscotland.com