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10 fairy-tale destinations in Scotland

10 fairy-tale destinations in Scotland

From the streets of the Scottish capital to majestic castles to glistening waterways, Musement shares 10 destinations in Scotland that seem straight out of a fairy tale.

With its castles, royalty, endearing villages, and enchanting landscapes, there’s no question that the United Kingdom exudes the charm and beauty reminiscent of a fairy tale. While the entire kingdom is incredible, we thought we’d zoom in on Scotland to highlight the country’s particular magic. Here are 10 fairy-tale destinations in Scotland that seem like they could have been pulled directly from the pages of a storybook.

1. Craigievar Castle, Alford

A dainty pink structure set against the rolling Aberdeenshire landscape, this 17th-century castle is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s “castle motif.” The seven-story structure is surrounded by gorgeous landscaping that includes Scottish glen and Victorian kitchen gardens as well as woodland trails. You may even spot a red squirrel or two scurrying around.

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Another must see for your bucket list – Craigievar Castle in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Pink castles exist in the real world too!😊 Something about this place seems magical though. – – "An excellent example of the original Scottish Baronial architecture, the great seven-storey castle was completed in 1626 by the Aberdonian merchant William Forbes, ancestor of the Forbes baronets of Craigievar and brother of the Bishop of Aberdeen, Patrick Forbes of Corse Castle. Forbes purchased the partially completed structure from the impoverished Mortimer family in the year 1610. Designed in the L plan…Craigievar is noted for its exceptionally crafted plasterwork ceilings…The ceilings feature plaster figures of the Nine Worthies and other family emblems. The castle originally had more defensive elements including a walled courtyard with four round towers; only one of the round towers remains today. In the arched door to that round tower are preserved the carved initials of Sir Thomas Forbes, William Forbes' son. There is also a massive iron portcullis or gate covering the entrance door which is named a yett. The castle interior boasts a Great Hall that has the Stuart Arms over the fireplace; a musicians gallery; secret staircase connecting the high tower to the Great Hall; Queen's Bedroom; servants' quarters and of course several splendid plasterwork ceilings. There is a collection of Forbes family portraits inside as well as a considerable quantity of Forbes furnishings dating to the 17th and 18th centuries. The castle also houses two original Henry Raeburn portraits complete with original receipts" – (Wikipedia) 🏰 🌍 Save for your next trip through buying collector coins. Ask me how🎯 🌍 🏰 📸 – @a_ontheroad – 🔥🔥🔥 #castle #castles #uk #scotland #getaway #bucketlist #thegreatoutdoors #destination #traveler #scenery #tour #history #travelersnotebook #europe #explore #attraction #luxury #luxurylifestyle #fairytale #aberdeenshire #travel #traveling #outdoors #visitscotland #millionairelifestyle #liveyourdreams #tourist #visiteurope #travelers #seetheworld

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2. Portree, Isle of Skye

The main town on the Isle of Skye, this picturesque village is best known for its lovely seafront lined with a row of colorful storybook-like houses. The harbor is undoubtedly the most lively quarter, but the town that sits above the port is equally charming.

3. Edinburgh

Everything about Edinburgh screams fairy tale. From the Medieval Old Town to the 18th- and 19th-century Georgian New Town to the looming Edinburgh Castle, one of the world’s most haunted, plenty of sites and sounds help visitors’ imaginations run wild.

4. Glamis Castle, Angus

This exquisite haunted castle has a connection to one of the most famous literary works associated with the country: Macbeth. The titular character resides in this 14th-century structure crowned with conical turrets and parapets that evoke princesses, princes, and all things romantic.

5. Achmelvich Beach, The Highlands

Part of a bay in the fabled Highlands, Achmelvich Beach has exquisite crystal-clear turquoise water and powdery white sand. Located by a hidden cove and the Hermit’s Castle, it’s easy to feel like magic lurks just around the bend.

6. Inverary Castle, Argyll

Located about two hours northwest of Glasgow, Argyll is home to Inverary Castle, the seat of its namesake Dukes since the 18th century. Its Gothic Revival facade is topped with distinct conical towers. Downton Abbey fans might recognize it as Duneagle Castle from the 2012 Christmas episode.

7. Devil’s Pulpit, Finnich Glen

One of Scotland’s most mysterious locales, the Devil’s Pulpit with its mossy gorge and ruby river can appear a bit unsettling at first glance. The pulpit itself is one particular protruding mushroom-shaped rock. Lore undoubtedly surrounds a location bearing that moniker, one of which involves the devil himself. But in reality, the gorge’s red sandstone affects the water color. Outlander fans will recognize the site as the Liar’s Spring. Since all fairytales have a dark side, we couldn’t resist including this spot.

8. The Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye

Located at the vast Glen Brittle near the village of Carbost, these glistening gorgeous freshwater rock pools capture falls cascading from the Cuillin Mountains. A wonder to behold, these locales just feel magical and are guaranteed to take your breath away.

9. Cawdor Castle, Nairnshire

Another castle with a connection to Macbeth, Cawdor Castle is where the title character earns his Thane of Cawdor title. However, Shakespeare fictionalized the castle itself as the structure only dates back to the 14th century, and Macbeth lived during the 11th. The castle’s three lush colorful gardens are an attraction in and of themselves.

10. Buachaille Etive Mòr, The Highlands

This ethereal pyramid-shaped mountain jutting out of Glen Etive is one of Scotland’s most photographed sites. The slope makes for a popular hiking destination. Though the steep craggy terrain isn’t easy, the view from the top is worth it.

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Scottish Highlands

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