Scotland

There is no doubt that rural Scotland has a reputation for being romantic. The dramatic scenery of cliffs, mountains, lakes and woodlands that make up the Scottish highlands are reknowned for their romanticism and with this in mind are perfect for a romantic break. Flying into Glasgow and working your way across from Stirling to Loch Lomond is the perfect way to appreciate the highlands in all their natural beauty.

The "heritage capital" of Scotland, Stirling, is the perfect place to start your romantic break. Standing 250 feet above the plain on an extinct volcano; Stirling castle's location rivals even Edinburgh Castle for sheer magnificence as it sits on its high volcanic rocks. Stirling Castle played an important role in the life of Mary Queen of Scots. She spent her childhood in the castle and her coronation took place in the Chapel Royal in 1543. Venture around the vast Great Hall, which has recently been restored to its medieval glory and get a sense of the romantic, regal splendour which was once commonplace. Take a romantic meander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town and if you're feeling energetic, climb up the 246 steps of the Wallace monument to be rewarded with glorious views from the Forth Bridges to Loch Lomond.

Travelling to the Glengoyne Distillery in Dumgoyne is a perfect way to enjoy the Scottish scenery. Rolling hills and gentle streams pass along the road leading to the wooded Blane Valley in which the distillery is situated. Glengoyne whiskey is rated the World's Best Single Highland Malt and while many whiskey distilleries are large, industrial affairs, Glengoyne has been billed by independent experts as a very intimate option. Their basic "Wee tasting tour" gives you a taste of the experience or the Master Blender Tour gives you a complete insight into the distillery experience.

Full of romance and mystique, Loch Lomond has inspired poets and songwriters throughout the centuries. It is 23 miles long, 5 miles wide, more than 600ft deep, lies 22ft above sea level and covers 18,000 acres. Its backdrop of rugged highland peaks with hidden glens and passages are steeped in history and heritage and offer breathtaking views. These are best enjoyed on a Loch Lomond Cruise, which can be enjoyed with Loch Lomond Cruises. Colquhoun's restaurant at the Lodge on Lomond offers the perfect location to enjoy the views with Head Chef Donn Eadie using only the finest and freshest local produce to create a mix of traditional and contemporary cooking.

Price Information:

Aer Lingus
www.aerlingus.com
0818 365000
Dublin to Glasgow

Knock Castle Hotel And Spa
www.knockcastle.com
0044 (0) 1764 650088

Double room: £99 Mon-Thurs
Double room: £119 Fri-Sun

Hertz Car Rental
www.hertz.ie
01 67 67 476
Ford Focus
€239 per week.

White Water Rafting
Dunolly Adventure Outdoors
0044 (0) 1887 820298
www.dunollyadventures.co.uk
From £25 per adult.

Loch Lomond Cruise
Cruise Loch Lomond
www.cruiselochlomondltd.com
From £7 per person.

Eating Out
The Lodge on Loch Lomond
www.loch-lomond.co.uk

Stirling Castle
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Admission Prices:
Adult: £8.50
Concession: £6.50
Child: £4.25

Glengoyne Distillery
www.glengoyne.com
"Wee tasting tour": £7.50 per person.
Master Blender Session: £30.00 per person

VisitScotland
www.visitscotland.com