A gorgeous view of Loch Lomond in the Scottish Highlands (Picture: Arturo Cano Mio/Age Fotostock/Getty
Images)

Move over New Zealand – our very own Scotland is officially
the most beautiful Country in the world.
The readers of the influential travel Guide Rough Guide voted
the country as ‘the most beautiful country in the world’, beating
Canada to the number one slot.
The guide says: ‘And finally, 
the world’s most beautiful country is revealed: Scotland. Who can 
deny that these wild beaches, deep lochs and craggy castles are
some of the most wonderful and beautiful sights in the world?’
In contrast, England only came in at number seven in the readers’ 
poll. Wales was number 10 in the list.

Sunset over Buachaille Etive Mor, Glencoe (Picture: Victoria Wilkinson Brownless/Getty)


Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland, was thrilled
– as you can imagine.
‘We are delighted that Scotland has received this remarkable 
accolade from Rough Guide readers, but of course it will not be
a surprise to anyone who has encountered our wonderful country,’
he said.

remarkable historic attractions, to our bustling but beautiful urban
centres, Scotland takes people’s breaths away. ‘From our
awe-inspiring landscapes to our
‘Our latest campaign, the Spirit of Scotland, was based on 
feedback from visitors that they get a special feeling while in the
country – whether it’s in the wilds of Glen Coe on a stormy day 
or taking part in a ceilidh on Burns’ Night – there is something 
different about Scotland that they can’t experience anywhere else 
in the world.
‘Of course, with great beauty comes great responsibility, and we 
urge both visitors and residents alike to respect Scotland’s natural
 assets to protect and preserve them for many generations to come.’
So, in honour of the most beautiful country being right on our
 doorstep, here are our favourite places and things to do in Scotland.

Loch Lomond

Lovely Loch Lomond (Picture: Alan Majchrowicz/Getty)

Beautiful.
 Loch Awe and Kilchurn Castle

Stunning (Picture: Spencer Bowman/Getty)

Kilchurn Castle and Loch Awe are awe-some.

Loch Ness

Beautiful (Picture: Gordie Broon Photography/Getty)

No monsters, just a stunning scene.

Glen Coe

Stunning (Picture: Getty Images)


Ben Nevis

Amazing (Picture: VisitBritain/Getty)

Ben Nevis, the highest peak on the British Isles, is absolutely stunning.

John O’Groats


The Stacks of Duncansby in John O Groats are beautiful (Picture: Getty Images)

Right on the northern tip of the UK.

Urquhart Castle


Lovely (Picture: Danita Delimont/Gallo/Getty)

This beautiful ruined castle is right on Loch Ness.

Edinburgh Castle


Stunning (Picture: Lonely Planet Images/Getty)

An historic beauty spot right in the centre of Edinburgh.

Glasgow Necropolis


Incredible (Picture: Lonely Planet Images/Getty)

A bit of a sombre and spooky spot, from which you can see
the whole city.

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