MUST-DOS IN SCOTLAND

From cliff-walking to whisky pairing and more, what will you do?

Scotland should challenge you, as well as relax you, and it is positively encouraged to take a step outside your comfort zone.

So, whilst enjoying a Scottish staycation, this sentiment should also be adopted.

Not sure where to begin? Here are some must-dos if you are out and about enjoying everything Scotland has to offer:

LIVE LIKE A LOCAL

The best type of holiday abroad is when you adopt the local culture and live like a local as you revel in their favourite pursuits and pastimes for a couple of weeks.

Whilst enjoying a break in Scotland, or time off, this should also be adopted. Whether it is weekend, a week, or a longer stay, speak to the locals and follow their advice and recommendations.

ENJOY LOCAL DELICACIES

If you are staying on a beautiful Scottish coastline, perhaps near a harbour or port, then seafood and fresh fish should be a regular fixture on the menu, wherever you choose to dine.

Not a fish-lover? This could be the ideal opportunity to sample a new type of seafood. Why not try scallops, mussels, or oysters?

Scotland’s coastal towns are the best places to indulge in a wide range of delicacies from the sea. So go on, dive in!

But there are plenty of other treats in store. Many hotels and bars in Scotland stock a fine selection of whisky, so a wee dram could be on the list.

Never been a whisky-lover? Perhaps this winter is the time to try it...

INDULGE YOURSELF

If you cannot spoil yourself while you are on a well-earned break away, then when can you?

Treat yourself, your other half and your family members as you make some wonderful memories together.

It could be anything from purchasing a handmade piece for your home to opting for a wine or whisky pairing when dining out, or buying a piece of art that you fall in love with in a local gallery.

It may even be something quite extreme like ticking something off your bucket list, read on for some inspiration...

DARE TO TRY SOMETHING NEW

Even if you prefer a relaxing walk along a cliff path to go-karting around a race track, you may still discover your adventurous side on your Scottish getaway.

Step tentatively (or take a giant leap) out of your comfort zone, and book an activity that you have either always wanted to try – or never even dreamed of doing.

From archery and clay-pigeon shooting, to other exciting outdoor activities, it all awaits you in Scotland.

As well as a little daunting, outdoor activities that challenge us, physically and mentally, can be fulfilling whether you enjoy them on your own, as a couple or all together as a family.

FORGET ABOUT LIFE BACK HOME

For the past 18-plus months, we have had a lot on our minds and every one of us has been challenged, mentally and emotionally, as we come to terms with the enormity of the Covid pandemic and lockdowns.

Home-schooling, being furloughed, job loss, key-working and home-working have all had a huge impact on us, bringing us unforeseen stress and upheaval.

So, when you are enjoying a short break or weekend escape in Scotland, whether somewhere busy or remote, remember: Switch off and don’t give life back home a second thought.

COME BACK REFRESHED

Just as challenging (but less enjoyable) as the transition from home to holiday, is the back-to-work feeling.

However, getting away from it all does give us renewed perspective on life and a chance to reflect on the areas we love, loathe and want to change.

On your return from your travels, even if you are only exploring Scotland for a weekend, harness this new outlook on life and make little changes so that it is not only you feeling refreshed on your return, but your lifestyle too.