Edinburgh Castle sits at one end of the Royal Mile while the active Holyrood Palace sits at the other end. The entire structure sits upon a big rock and was really the throne of Scotland for some time. "To control the castle was to hold the keys to the kingdom." This place has seen so much life and death and functions still as part of a military base. Mostly, it serves as a remnant to the past, a window into a different time when kings and queens and warlords owned the earth.
Read MoreThe Old Town is what gives Edinburgh its charm. Edinburgh Castle is at one end of The Royal Mile, and Holyrood Palace anchors the other end. The term refers to the part of Edinburgh in the city center that has reserved its medieval street plans and old architecture. A lot of the buildings have been remodeled but the feel is there with aged bricks and cobblestone sidewalks. The Old Town is what gives Edinburgh its charm.
Read MoreThe best thing about Edinburgh, Scotland is the mixture of natural green spaces and preserved architecture. If the hike up Arthur's seat isn't your cup of tea, a mild stroll through Calton Hill may be a great alternative. This hill is right in the center of Edinburgh and is included in the city's UNESCO world heritage site designation. The small hike to the top will offer great views of the city.
Read MorePortobello Beach is a cute bonus location to hit up but by no means a must see in Edinburgh. To be fair, we went in the dead of winter so it might be a bit livelier in the summer. Scotland isn't known for beaches, so we won't fault them for that. After a hike to King Arthur's Peak, this easy stroll was a welcomed change to take in the salty sea air and relax
Read MoreScotland is a wonder to behold. In Edinburgh, all the guides say to hike up to King Arthur's Seat in Holyrood Park. The peak is an extinct volcano and there are rumors that this site may have been the location of Camelot (as in legendary King Arthur and Lancelot, etc.). With the wind-swept grass and craggy rocks, traversing this landscape is like being in a Lord of the Rings movie.
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