Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. It is known for its rich history, distinctive traditions, wonderful landscapes and interesting sights. More than one and a half million guests from different countries visit it annually.
Scotland: Key Features
The main territory of Scotland is located in the northern part of Great Britain and occupies a third of the island's area. In addition, it includes about 790 small islands. In the east, the coast of the country is bordered by the North Sea, and in the north and west it is washed by the Atlantic Ocean.
The climate of the country is generally temperate oceanic. In comparison with areas located in the same latitudes, it has warmer winters, as well as colder and wetter summers. Due to the influence of the Atlantic currents, the western regions are warmer than the eastern ones. The greatest amount of precipitation falls in the highlands, where the climate is more humid. The coldest months are January and February with daily temperatures of 5-7 ° C; the summer months - July and August - are the warmest, with an average temperature of 19 ° C.
The ancient city of Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, and Glasgow is the largest in the country. The official language is English; Scottish and Scottish Gaelic have regional status. All types of transport operate in the country, and road traffic, as in the whole of Great Britain, is left-hand.
Interesting sights of Scotland
The country has a highly developed tourist service. It is believed that due to its many attractions, as well as natural resources, Scotland can satisfy the varied tastes of those who come to rest there.
Although Scotland is very small, its topography differs from region to region. In contrast to the low-lying and hilly southern regions, mountainous regions predominate in the northern part. Alpine skiing is especially popular here, and many resorts offer their services.
Among other interesting natural features of the country are many freshwater bodies of water. Not far from the city of Iverness stretches the famous legendary Loch Ness.
As a maritime country, Scotland is rich in beaches, which are distinguished by beautiful landscapes, as well as the opportunity to meet representatives of the fauna: whales, seals, dolphins, deer and eagles. One of them, Luskentyre Beach on Harris Island (Outer Hebrides), is even voted the UK's best beach.
Thanks to the rich and difficult historical past, many architectural structures of ancient times have survived in the country. One of the oldest buildings is Edinburgh Castle, located on the top of a mountain in the capital. He is one of the main "visiting cards" of the country.
Also among the antiquities is the Stirling Castle, built in the 16th century, which impresses with its monumental view. The beautiful old palace of Holyrood, which has become the official residence of the King of Scotland, is also open to visitors. Kelvingrove's world-class art gallery and museum will be of interest to art and history lovers.
