Bonnyrigg, Scotland

lodging

Dalhousie Castle Hotel

Just outside the bustling city of Edinburgh, sits Dalhousie Castle. There are a variety of room options available. If you want an authentic stay within the castle itself, choose one of the many castle bedrooms. While the Castle Rock suites are beautiful, they are not within the castle itself. We booked the standard castle bedroom. With champagne and chocolates upon arrival, it’s easy to understand why they received the honor of Scotland’s Castle Hotel of 2016. Dinner in the Castle- Be sure to book a reservation to dine in the dungeon! Your dining experience begins in the Library for cocktails and h’ordeuvres. If only I had brought my candlestick and Scarlett dress it would have made for the perfect Clue set up. While sipping on your Scotch whiskey, the waiter asks you to place your dinner order. When you’re finally seated your food is delivered right to you without waiting! With the knights in shining armor standing guard and the candlelight setting the mood, we enjoyed a wonderful castle-perfect dinner together.

Bonnyrigg, Scotland

lodging

Dalhousie Castle Hotel

Couple’s duo spa day package: This included a one hour massage and full access to all of their spa facilities. A couple favorites were the hydro pool and rain/fog shower. We then took our afternoon tea out on the Tepidarium overlooking the castle grounds.

Anstruther, Scotland

destination • experience

Fife Coastal Path

The Fife Coastal Path stretches 117 miles along the coast of Scotland. Since we had rented a car, we decided to follow the path and enjoy the views. We stopped in a few villages so we could walk the path and enjoy the views. I’m so glad we did because we came across hidden gems and friendly passersby along the way.

Edinburgh, Scotland

restaurants

St Andrews Restaurant & Takeaway

The most notable city on our road trip was St. Andrews. Most recognized as the ‘Home of golf,’ the first-rate golf courses are worth an 18-hole round for the views alone! There is such a rich, religious history associated with St. Andrews and many historical sites and museums you can visit. Some of these include: St. Andrews Cathedral, St. Andrews Castle, Martyrs’ Monument

Edinburgh, Scotland

destination

Royal Mile

This stretch of road begins and ends with two major historical sites–Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle. As you make your way uphill, you’ll find boutiques, cheese mongers, restaurants, kilt shops, and bagpipes to entertain you for hours. At the end of this climb is Edinburgh Castle sitting atop Castle Rock.

Edinburgh, Scotland

destination • experience

Edinburgh Castle

I highly recommend touring the castle and taking in the views of the city below.

Edinburgh, Scotland

destination

Victoria Street

The curve in the street is dotted with historical, colorful buildings with unique shops and restaurants. There is a rooftop terrace overlooking this street and makes for some fantastic people watching.

Edinburgh, Scotland

destination • experience

Dean Village

Within the Stockbridge neighborhood is Dean Village. A quiet, residential area, this quaint neighborhood allows you to see into the every day life of a local in Edinburgh. Situated along the Water Leith, we enjoyed exploring the neighborhoods, cobblestone streets, and beautiful homes.

Edinburgh, Scotland

destination

Circus Lane

Another picturesque street I was dying to walk through was Circus Lane. The wisteria was in full bloom as we walked through and the views did not disappoint.

Edinburgh, Scotland

outdoors

Arthur's Seat

An ancient volcano, and fairly steep climb, this lookout point provides some of the best views in the city, so I’m told. Unfortunately, my feet were aching and I couldn’t get them to make the hike (excuses, I know!).

Edinburgh, Scotland

outdoors

Princes Street Gardens

A public park in the center of Edinburgh. We enjoyed an ice cream on the lawn staring up at Edinburgh Castle. Many notable monuments are located within the park including the Great Scot Monument! For a small fee you can go to the top of the Monument and see out over the park and city.

Edinburgh, Scotland

outdoors

Calton Hill

This notable hill is part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site and is situated in the center of Edinburgh. The National monument, replicating the parthenon in Athens, towers upon the hill. We climbed to the top and enjoyed the panoramic views of the city from this area.

Edinburgh, Scotland

lodging • restaurants

The Witchery by the Castle

Snag a reservation well in advance for a luxury dining experience inside a Gothic, boutique hotel.

Edinburgh, Scotland

cafe • restaurants

The Colonnades at the Signet Library

We had an afternoon tea experience at our castle hotel, but I had this on my list of places to go.

Edinburgh, Scotland

bar • experience

The Standing Order

A bank converted into a pub. Huge open area and a fun place to grab drinks in a lively bar.

Edinburgh, Scotland

bar

The Scotch Whisky Experience

I suggest you try this if you like Scotch whiskey. Unfortunately, Gus got sick towards the end of the trip and didn’t feel up to the tasting, but it had great reviews.