Happiness is….choosing to holiday in Scotland and getting the balance right between entertaining the whole family and actually enjoying your holiday. Whilst I was in Blair Atholl in Perthshire last week there seemed to be so many people around and they all seemed happy. I am not surprised as Blair Castle is the focal point to the village and it is an interesting historic castle to visit and is a very popular visitor attraction. Of course this may not appeal to children – but there is so much more.

Blair Castle dates back to 1269 and has been transformed through the ages to become the fine Victorian castle in the baronial style that it is today. It is open to the public April – October each year, with many additional attractions apart from touring the castle itself. Atholl Estates have 145,000 acres of hills, woodlands and open countryside just waiting to be explored. Whether you want to set off on your own adventure on the 40 miles of walking and cycling routes or try one of the Estate activities, there is something for everyone. These include pony trekking, Land Rover safaris and tractor tours for children.

If you are looking for accommodation in this area, Scotts Castle Holidays have a number of large holiday houses to choose from. One of these is to be found 8 miles from the castle and it is one of the Duke of Atholl’s former shooting lodges. Accessed via a private estate road, which is for residents only for vehicular access, the track meanders up Glen Tilt going through beautiful scenery until eventually finding the holiday house.

The lodge itself is a Traditional Shooting Lodge that is functional over flair, which is in fact a large holiday house as it can sleep up to 20 people. With a large drawing room, dining room and plenty of bedrooms – this is the ideal place to take an activity minded family or a group of walking enthusiasts. Included is a complimentary family pass to Blair Castle. If you are looking for a wonderful location to get away from others, but to have plenty of activities on your doorstep, then this Scottish Holiday Lodge comes highly recommended. Contact Scotts Castle Holidays today for more information.

With Dumfries and Galloway, you get two Scottish counties for the price of one, all of it a rich and diverse area to discover. Situated to the south west of Scotland, it can easily be bypassed as you travel north or south, but if you venture this way there is much to find. I think what surprises people the most is how hilly it is. Not mountainous like the Highlands or with the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, but quite striking up-and-down hills. Then, of course, there is the Solway Firth, with all its marshlands, beaches and coves. An area that Robbie Burns, Scotland’s national bard, would have known well as his days as an excise man, but today is ideal for bird-watching and beachcombing.

Activities in this area are many for a family. The Glentrool Forest Park Visitor Centre is a great place to get started, as it is known as the “gateway to the Galloway Hills”. Here you can walk on the many themed walking trails or you can take one of the mountain biking trails, which is also part of the 7Stanes route. Walking in the Glenkens is one of the most popular walking trails. Horse rides and trails can be organised for you at the Lochill Equestrian Centre near Castle Douglas, to suit all rider’s abilities. For the golfer, there are many good parkland courses, and there are some excellent courses to get children playing for the first time. The golf clubs at Newton Stewart, Thornhill and Kirkcudbright, to name but a few.

When it comes to water activity, then Loch Ken and the Loch Ken Activity Centre, covers so many options including sailing, stand up paddle boats, kayaking and wind-surfing. Whilst those who prefer to fish, then Loch Ken also caters for this with fishing available for pike, perch and roach here. The rivers Nith, Annan and Esk, all have an excellent reputation for salmon and sea trout, as well as for the brown trout. For sea fishing, then the waters around Stranraer have caught record breaking fish, but regardless of the size of your catch, these are all great day’s out.

If this was not enough for you to be entertained in Dumfries and Galloway – what about this? Here are 10 more things you can do or visit in this area; 1, Caerlaverock Castle; 2, Sweetheart Abbey; 3, John Paul Jones Museum; 4, Gretna Green Blacksmith shop; 5, Drumlanrig Castle; 6, Mersehead Nature Reserve; 7, Robert Burns House; 8, Cardoness Castle; 9, Mull of Galloway Lighthouse; 10, Threave Castle.

With a great variety of things to do and see, Dumfries and Galloway is a great location for a family holiday and if you wish to find a large holiday house, like Bellrigg, which can sleep up to 11 people on a self-catering basis, then at Scotts Castle Holidays we will be delighted to assist you further. Please contact today for more information on self-catering large holiday houses in Scotland.

With Easter nearly upon us, thoughts turn to holidays again, and it is time to get back to a holiday state of mind. Firstly with the short break ahead and secondly in planning what it is you want out of your main summer holiday. As a family group looking ahead – where do you want to go and what do you want to do? Do you want to go “rock pooling” for crabs on the beach; hang out for the perfect wave to surf; climb as many mountains as possible; visit the many beautiful castles in Scotland; check out the cosmopolitan city life; be pampered at the nearest spa; what is it that tickles your fancy? Are there things on the “bucket list” you wish to tick off, or is it just a “bucket-and-spade” holiday you are after? Bill Joel sang about a “New York State of Mind” and taking a vacation in other parts of the US, whilst in reality he wanted to stay at home, but what about you? Well, only you know.

Scotland can offer a huge variety depending on your preference, and specialises in castles and fresh air! Be you young or old, you can get out and about in the countryside. By taking a lovely walk by Loch Fyne you can even help a charity conserve an important old Scottish castle. Whilst on holiday enjoy the beauty and give something back at the same time. Surely this must be good for the soul and allowing a generosity of spirit should make you feel so much better. Be inspired by its special beauty. Be part of the history of Scotland and get involved. Old Castle Lachlan can be found at the end of this short walk in this unspoilt setting on Loch Fyne and if you can help save this for future generations to enjoy, well that is a holiday to remember forever for all the family.

Scotts Castle Holidays offers a wide range of self-catering holiday venues, from large holiday houses, magnificent mansions, and charming castles in Scotland. Something for everyone, whatever their Scottish holiday state of mind!

Whilst Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and Edinburgh Castle the most visited attraction, back in older times it was a different story. It was Dunfermline which was the capital of Scotland (prior to 1437), with its Abbey being the centrepiece. Located a few miles away once you cross the Forth Bridge travelling north from Edinburgh – it is a must see for all visitors coming to Scotland.

1, Dunfermline Abbey. The foundation of the monastic establishment took place between 1058 – 1093, whilst the Abbey was founded in 1128, so there are plenty of ancient footsteps to follow in. It is most associated with King Robert 1, more commonly known as “Robert the Bruce”. He was one of the most famous warriors and led Scotland during the Wars of Scottish Independence against England. He fought successfully during his reign to regain Scotland’s place as an independent nation and is today remembered in Scotland as a national hero. After his death in 1329, the body of Robert the Bruce is buried here, whilst his heart is at Melrose Abbey. The tower of the church bears the words `King Robert the Bruce` which is carved in stone around the top and inside, beneath the pulpit, is his tomb. Nearby are the remains of the other monastic buildings, including the large refectory and the ruin of the Royal Palace, rebuilt in the sixteenth century for James VI.

2, Andrew Carnegie’s Birthplace Museum. Walking down the street from Dunfermline Abbey you will find the cottage where the famous industrialist Andrew Carnegie was born. It is now a visitor attraction and at the museum you can find out what life was like in 19th century Dunfermline and what it was like to emigrate to America with just a few possessions. Learn how Andrew Carnegie, a weaver’s son from Dunfermline, made a fortune in steel in America to became the richest man in the world and who then gave his fortune away to benefit humanity.

3, Dunfermline Golf Club. Whilst Fife is synonymous with the game of golf, mainly through St Andrews, even they cannot compete with this Dunfermline golf club as it comes with its own castle, Pitfirrane Castle. The club was founded in 1887 and moved to this site in 1953, when it took over the parklands and castle. The castle dates back to the 16th century, with the staircase being dated as1583, with later additions through the centuries. Visitors are welcome to play golf, and the course has great views overlooking Dunfermline, the Abbey and the castle.

Whilst there are many other activities in this area, including a trip to Scotland’s national aquarium, Deep Sea World at North Queensferry or to Falkland Palace, for those seeking a self-catering large holiday house in Fife, then this Impressive Country House overlooking Dunfermline would be ideal. This large Victorian country house set on the hill above offers accommodation for up to 18 people on a self-catering basis. This is a comfortable holiday house with a relaxed atmosphere, which is ideal for large groups of people to get-together to enjoy quality time with each other in the Edinburgh/Fife area. Contact Scotts Castle Holidays today for more details.

With the Easter break fast approaching, and the imminent arrival of family members, now is the time to think about the summer holidays.  Sometimes the hardest thing is to get everyone in the same place to make a decision about holiday plans. So whilst you are tucking in to the roast of your choice with your loved ones – start planning your holiday in Scotland. Self-catering options at Scotts Castle Holidays comes in all shapes and sizes, but booking a castle holiday remains a hugely popular choice. For example, the Historic Castle Apartment (see above) in Moray, which sleeps up to 14 people is an ideal holiday venue for all the family. Whilst the property is a unique and interesting castle, the surrounding area has plenty for all ages.

Moray is known throughout the world for its castle and whisky trails, which appeals mainly to adults, though for children there are activity centres and great beaches. Findhorn and Burghead Bay offer miles of sandy beaches. In the summer months, there are many events of all types throughout Scotland, including rock festivals, music festivals, agricultural shows, game shows and Highland Games. A local show is the Portsoy Boat Festival which celebrates its 21st show this year.

Traditional boats from far and wide gather in the historic 17th century harbour at Portsoy, situated in the North East of Scotland. This year the annual Scottish Traditional Boat Festival is being held over the weekend of 27th – 29th June 2014. The festival puts a special emphasis on boat building, restoration and sailing and on associated traditional crafts, as well as music and art. There is also an extensive food fayre showcasing the exceptional local produce. This is an ideal day out for all the family, young and old. If you are planning a holiday in Scotland, then choose from a selection of large holiday houses in Scotland with Scotts Castle Holidays.

Wildlife photography taken near Kingussie

The image of the “Monarch of the Glen” as painted by Sir Edwin Landseer and promoted by Dewars Whisky is an enduring iconic image of Scotland. To see a red deer stag,  up close and personal, then the Highland Wildlife Park, near Kingussie is a good day out for all the family. For the keen photographer, then wildlife photography trips are available to stalk a stag with a camera only.

In Strathspey and Badenoch, 15 miles from Aviemore, there is a Traditional Shooting Lodge, which can accommodate a large group, which is ideal for up to 16 people on a self-catering basis for a week or weekend. This area is great to see wildlife, which can be organised individually or as a family. Contact the office today at Scotts Castle Holidays for more details on a large holiday house in Scotland.

The Harry Potter film franchise is nearing completion with the final film in the series, Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows: Part 2, due to be released in July 2011. Whilst it is well known that JK Rowling wrote some of the books in Edinburgh and has now settled to living full time in Perthshire, what is fun for the fan and tourist alike is to visit some of the backdrops that were filmed in Scotland. The four Lochaber glens – Glenfinnan, Glen Nevis, Glencoe and Glen Etive have all featured heavily in the films. In fact the Glenfinnan railway viaduct is now known to children all round the world as the Harry Potter Bridge.

If you are looking to stay near the Lochaber area to explore these amazing glens, then nestled in a quiet glen in the shadow of Ben Nevis, you will find this Victorian Fishing Lodge. Built in 1870, this is a delightful large holiday house in Scotland that is ideal for groups of 14 people, who want a self-catering holiday house in the Lochaber area. Why not find out more today at Scotts Castle Holidays?

The Scottish ski resorts in 2010 have enjoyed a bumper season, with record snowfalls and skiing continuing into June and starting up again in November with this current substantial spell of snow. So is this the season to head north of the border for your skiing trip? Scotts Castle Holidays can provide the accommodation you require, within a large holiday house or a more family size if you prefer. So it just remains which of the 5 ski resorts you wish to choose and they are:

1, Cairngorm is the best-known resort, with 11 lifts and 23 miles of slopes. Access is by a funicular from the main car park to Ptarmigan at 3,600 feet; most of the other lifts are drags. At the top is a restaurant and visitors’ centre, and you can choose the Coire Cas area, which is the main one and the easiest or the Coire na Ciste, which is more challenging. It is around one hour from Inverness and two hours from Edinburgh or Glasgow.

2, Nevis Range is the most dramatic of the resorts, with spectacular coastal views from slopes rising to 3,900 feet. A gondola accesses the main lift base and restaurant at 2,150 feet. There are 11 lifts, with 22 miles of pistes which offers something for everybody. These are neatly arranged with several short beginner slopes at the base, and longer blue ones just above, with red, black or off-piste terrain beyond that. It is about two-and-a-half hours’ drive north of Glasgow, one-and-a-half hours from Inverness.

3, Glenshee is marginally the biggest resort, with 21 lifts serving 25 miles of pistes. The main lifts go up from 2,130 feet on either side of the A93 road from Blairgowrie to Braemar. The terrain is mostly easy or intermediate difficulty, with a couple of short black runs, but there are good opportunities to go off-piste, with plenty of natural terrain features. One hour from Perth.

4, Glencoe is Scotland’s original ski resort. A chairlift takes you up to 2,130 feet at the base of the main slopes, and is served by 6 lifts. The Fly Paper is reputedly Scotland’s steepest black run and there are great views from the top. Glencoe is 25 miles south of Fort William.

5, The Lecht is seen as a beginner and family area with 13 lifts and 13 miles of runs on the gentle slopes beside a high pass, with a series of parallel lifts and runs above the car parks. With a maximum vertical of 650 feet, runs are short. There’s extensive snowmaking, a terrain park and a day lodge at the base. One hour from Aberdeen.

Galloway Forest Park has become the first “Dark Sky Park” in the UK, and the fourth around the world, in recognition of being one of the best places in the world for stargazing. The award, presented by the International Dark Sky Association recognises the quality of the night sky in this area of Scotland, where light pollution is minimal.

The park was established in 1947 covering 300 square miles and is the largest of its kind in Scotland. Light pollution is kept to a minimum because of the limited number of buildings within the park’s boundary. Skies like this are rapidly disappearing and it estimated that less than 10% of people in the UK can now see the Milky Way from where they live.

For accommodation nearby, there is this Restored Medieval Castle which can sleep up to 7 people or for a larger property there is this Delightful Country House that can accommodate up to 12 people. Wonderful Scottish holiday houses in their own right, but even better for stargazing.