Summer Holidays in Scotland

You can enjoy many of Edinburgh's attractions, such as the castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and Arthurs Seat all year round. However, a summer holiday in the city also gives you the chance to enjoy the Edinburgh Festival. There are actually several festivals, and with the highlights of the Fringe Festival, the International Festival and the International Book Festival, you'll be spoilt for choice. Book in advance for popular shows and events.

The perfect location for an active outdoor holiday, summer in the Cairngorms might mean "bagging" one of more than 50 Munros, climbing Kingussie Crag, white water kayaking, or perhaps hiking a section of the Speyside Way. Meanwhile, a number of distilleries and breweries offer alternative and arguably more convivial forms of relaxation.

With white sand beaches and turquoise seas to rival any in more exotic locations, the Outer Hebrides is simply stunning, particularly in summer when the days are long. As well as the beaches, make time to visit the Standing Stones on Lewis, the RSPB reserve at Balranald on North Uist, or the traditional "blackhouses" on South Uist.

The ancient houses at Skara Brae and the standing stones that form the Ring of Brodgar make Orkney's remote neolithic past seem very recent indeed. Scapa Flow and the Italian Chapel are poignant reminders of more recent events in the history of these islands. The St Magnus International Festival and the Summer Solstice Festival are two seasonal events that are worth visiting if they coincide with your summer holiday.

Fort William offers all kinds of outdoor activities. Ben Nevis is its best-known attraction and the summer is an ideal time to tackle its slopes, although you'll still need clothing and equipment suitable for all weather conditions. Alternatively, visit Old Inverlochy Castle ​or make a trip to nearby Glencoe. Harry Potter fans could ride the steam train over the Glenfinnan Viaduct,​ while whisky lovers will want a tour of the Ben Nevis distillery. In addition to the usual water sports, Lochaber offers excellent diving, including dives over shipwrecks, for experienced divers.