5 days of iconic attractions and hidden gems in Scotland

One of the things that makes Edinburgh so special is the city's wonderful castle. It sits majestically atop an ancient rock, watching over the city, and dates to the 12th century. It's one of Scotland's most important attractions, with fascinating military history combined with ancient geology.

Seeing the castle is, quite rightly, a popular thing to do in Edinburgh, so be sure to book in advance and arrive at your time slot.

The seaside neighbourhood of South Queensferry is a lovely place to finish off your day. Catch the bus to the coast and if you've still got some energy, walk a section of the Shore Walk and discover some hidden beaches. Spend your evening at one of the waterfront pubs in the shadow of the Forth Bridges and enjoy dinner with a view!

Bus number: Lothian Country Buses 43.

Sleep: South Queensferry

Scotland has some of the best mountain biking trails in the world. Why not add some adrenaline to your day? Hire a bike from Comrie Bikes and set off along one of the custom-built trails through the forests of Perthshire. Comrie Croft has some amazing accommodation options too, if you'd like to spend the night somewhere quirky - they've got eco camping, safari tents (nordic katas) and a steading hostel. 

Sleep: Comrie Croft or Stirling

You'll be in great company driving along the A82 road to Glencoe. After all, James Bond himself did it in Skyfall (2012)! It's more than a great drive so stop safely for a moment to take it in. Walk through the ancient landscape with hikes into the Lost Valley or the more challenging Pap of Glencoe. Meander around the stunning Glencoe Lochan, a landscape reminiscent of Lake Louise in British Columbia, with its clear waters and towering peaks all around. The wood was created in the 19th century by Lord Strathcona to remind his wife of her Canadian homeland. At the end of the day, enjoy a meal at the Claichaig Inn.

Sleep: Glencoe or Fort William

Finish the day with a distillery visit like no other! The Macallan explores the processes, production, people and passion that go into making this ever-so-special single malt whisky. Book a tour and marvel at this modern distillery, with its uniquely designed roof and a state-of the art visitor centre and shop, where you can buy limited edition and new release bottles to take home.

Sleep: Elgin

Continue down the east coast and you'll soon reach Dundee, the UK's first UNESCO City of Design. A great wee city to explore, drop into V&A Dundee for an exhibition. Designed by internationally acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, V&A Dundee was inspired by the dramatic cliffs along the east coast of Scotland with the building stretching out into the River Tay.

If you have time for another stop, head to Verdant Works to see behind the scenes of a beautifully restored jute mill and delve into the story of Dundee's textile heritage.

Head along the coast to discover the villages of East Neuk, characterised by their winding streets and alleyways, historic harbours and neat whitewashed stone cottages. Places to visit include Crail, Anstruther, Pittenweem, St Monans and Elie and Earlsferry - a great way to explore a few is by following the Fife Coastal Path, one of Scotland's Great Trails.

Sleep: East Neuk of Fife or Edinburgh