Royal Love Story

No town named Balmoral, but a castle, sprawling estate and landscape straight out of a romantic novel

“O my Luve is like a red, red rose, That’s newly sprung in June; O my Luve is like the melodie, That’s sweetly played in tune.” - A Red, Red Rose By Robert Burns (1794)

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Mad about Scotland? Spread the cheer! Today’s newsletter celebrates the beauty, culture and spirit of Scotland, from its rugged landscapes and ancient castles to its rich traditions and flavours. Know someone who dreams of Scotland too? Spread the magic by forwarding this to a friend - they’ll love discovering a wee bit of Scotland in their inbox!

Balmoral Castle - Shutterstock

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In today’s email:-

• Happy Valentine’s Day ❤️ From the misty Highlands to the cosy corners of Edinburgh’s old town, may your day be filled with warmth, laughter, and love. Whether you're sharing a dram by the fire, taking a brisk walk along the lochs, or simply enjoying the company of someone special, may your heart be as full as the Scottish skies. Wishing you a Valentine’s Day as timeless and magical as the land itself!

• Royal Love Story

• Discover the Best of Scotland: Road Trips Through Mountains, Castles, and Coasts

• CASTLES: The Crown Jewels Of Scotland

• Around the Web: Melrose Abbey And Robert The Bruce’s Heart; Top places to propose in Edinburgh; Let Scotland Steal Your Heart Forever and more…

• Experiences Likely To Sell Out

• 🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

• From Social Media: Inverness is a cool mix of history and modern vibes

• Scottish Food You Will Love: How to Make Balmoral Chicken

• Coo Wee: What Was The Romantic Movement?

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Royal Love Story

Scotland’s wild beauty has long been the backdrop for love stories, and few places embody romance quite like Balmoral Castle. More than just a royal residence, Balmoral is a symbol of love and devotion, beginning with Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, who made it their cherished retreat in 1852. Victoria called it her "dear paradise in the Highlands,"where she and Albert shared their happiest moments. This tradition of romance continued with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, who found peace and normality at Balmoral, spending countless summers enjoying long walks and quiet evenings by the fire. Today, King Charles III and Queen Camilla continue the legacy, embracing Balmoral as their own sanctuary—a place tied to their enduring love story.

Beyond royalty, Balmoral has been a witness to Scottish history’s greatest romances, from Jacobite rebels to Highland nobility. Whether you’re drawn to its regal past or simply seeking a romantic escape, Balmoral offers tranquillity, history, and the kind of love only Scotland can inspire.

The Horses of Balmoral Castle - Shutterstock

CASTLES: The Crown Jewels Of Scotland

Scotland's landscape is punctuated by a remarkable array of castles, each a testament to the country's rich history and enduring beauty. From dramatic cliff-top fortresses to fairytale palaces, these castles stand as living testaments to Scotland's past.

Dunnottar Castle (Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire) - Love to visit Scotland

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Around The Web

Melrose Abbey And Robert The Bruce’s Heart

By the time Robert was officially recognised by England as the legitimate King of Scots, making it safe enough to leave Scotland, he was on his death bed. He asked his friend and most loyal follower, Sir James the Black Douglas to take his heart on crusade instead and so his body was buried in Dunfermline Abbey while his heart was mummified and placed in a silver casket that Douglas wore around his neck…

Top places to propose in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is full of year-round romantic locations that make the ideal backdrop for your picture-perfect proposal.Thinking of popping the question to your loved one. Read on to discover some beautiful places in Edinburgh to ask that all-important question!

Valentine’s Day in Scotland

Few places compare to the Hermitage for a sense of tranquillity and romantic atmosphere as you stroll beneath the towering pines. Further south, in Dumfries & Galloway, Rockcliffe is part of a National Scenic Area. It has some of the prettiest coastal landscapes anywhere in Scotland. And then there’s the Pineapple near Stirling, a unique historic building bringing a touch of the exotic to a chilly February day.

Reinventing Edinburgh Castle: A Romantic Revival

From its beginnings as a royal stronghold to its later role as a military barracks, and finally, its transformation into a beloved tourist attraction, Edinburgh Castle’s journey is a fascinating story of cultural change. But did you know that this evolution was significantly shaped by the Romantic movement of the late 18th and 19th centuries?

Fall in love with Holyrood Distillery

Holyrood Distillery is situated in the city’s Southside district – under the shadow of the magnificent Salisbury Crags, and a short walk from the historic old town. Taking inspiration from the surroundings, and from Edinburgh’s brewing and distilling heritage, Holyrood produce the city’s only single malt whisky and an award-winning range of gin.

Let Scotland Steal Your Heart Forever

Scotland has a way of capturing hearts - whether it’s the raw beauty of its landscapes, the romance of its ancient castles, or the deep-rooted history that speaks to the soul. A trip here isn’t just about seeing places; it’s about feeling a connection - to the land, the people, and perhaps even your own past…

The Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile - Shutterstock

Top Experiences In Scotland Likely To Sell Out

2024 is going to be a busy year - Here is a list of the top experiences that will most likely sell out and you should book in advance. Don’t delay!

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🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

Are you ready to prove your travel smarts? Don’t miss the chance to play the hottest new trivia game for travel lovers!

Here’s a taste: Where is the famous Kylemore Abbey located?

Think you know? Don’t wait—thousands of trivia buffs are already hooked. Play Travel Quizzer now!

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From Social Media

Inverness is a cool mix of history and modern vibes, sitting by the River Ness in the Scottish Highlands. You’ve got castles, riverside walks, and plenty of cozy spots to grab a bite. It’s the kind of place where you can explore ancient battlefields in the morning and chill with a whisky by the evening. Ever thought about visiting the Highlands?

Scottish Food You Will Love

How to Make Balmoral Chicken

Coo Wee

What Was The Romantic Movement?

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