What’s New in Scotland?
Thinking of Scotland? Think Whisky!
Perhaps one of the first things that comes to mind when thinking of Scotland is whisky! A visit to Scotland is not complete without a distillery experience and a dram (or two) of whisky. The Maccallan in Aberlour launched its new distillery and visitor center in 2018, located on the Easter Elchies, home to a leading single malt since 1824. Designed by Rogers Stirk Harbour and Partners, the complex architecture of the distillery is a modern piece of art that pays heed to the hilly Scottish landscape, thereby maximizing aesthetic elegance while simultaneously minimizing visual impact on the scenery.
The Edinburgh Grand is the Epitome of Luxury
From the Scottish countryside to our bustling capital city, the Edinburgh Grand is the epitome of luxury coupled with panoramic views that set these accommodations apart from other options in the city. Formerly the Royal Bank of Scotland property, all renovation work has been completed with full respect to the building’s original purpose to create 50 individually designed apartments, along with unique restaurants and bars. It has surpassed all the locals’ expectations with its attention to detail.
The V&A Museum Celebrates Scotland
The newly inaugurated V&A (Victoria and Albert) Museum, which sits on Dundee’s waterfront, is the only museum of its kind in the world, outside of London. The museum celebrates Scotland’s past, present and future designs, bringing together artifacts from all over the country under one roof.
UK’s First Craft Beer Hotel coming to Scotland in 2019
A multinational brewery and pub chain based in Scotland has announced plans to build BrewDog: The Dog House, the UK’s first craft beer hotel in Scotland. This 26-room hotel promises immersion into the world of craft beer, featuring beer taps in all bedrooms, a built-in beer fridge in the shower, and views of the brewers at work. As described by BrewDog founder, James Watt, “the DogHouse is [a] gift to passionate craft beer fans making the pilgrimage to [the] brewery in Aberdeenshire”.
Did You Know?
Visitors are Flocking to Scotland
The number of visitors selecting Scotland as their destination has been climbing in recent years, with a 17% increase recorded in 2018. With a weakened pound, the newly coined “Outlander effect” (due to the wild popularity of the novels and television series about 18th century Scotland), and the steady progress the destination is seeing, thousands of vacationers are flocking to Scotland and enjoying the scenic countryside, world-renowned festivals, and the lure of the bigger cities.
Duke and Duchess of Sussex – Temporary Exhibition at Edinburgh Castle
Without fail, The Royal Yacht Britannia and Edinburgh Castle are the most visited tourist attractions in Scotland each year. Few visitors deem their travels to Scotland complete without a dose of royalty. From June 14 to October 6, 2019, visitors can view the attire worn by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at their wedding in May 2018.
The Hebridean Whale Trail
Scotland is home to a quarter of the world’s whale and dolphin species. 2019 will see the completion of the unique Hebridean Whale Trail. This trail will take visitors to 25 whale-watching and whale heritage sites located on the west coast of Scotland and seeks to showcase man’s relationship with whales. Coupled with other marine wildlife along the west coast and the breath-taking nature characterizing the area, this experience should be on everyone’s Scotland itinerary.