6 Steps to Be Happy Like A Scot
When you think of where the happiest place in the world might be, we’re guessing your first thought isn’t going to be Scotland. However, recent studies have shown that Scotland is actually the happiest place to live in the United Kingdom. With an unbeatable work/life balance, and a treasure trove of incredible sights and attractions on your very doorstep, it’s not difficult to see why the people of Scotland are so happy.
The history of Scotland is as fascinating as it is complex. Think beautiful, ancient standing stones, lavish castles, striking architecture, derelict fortresses and world-famous engineering. Wherever you go in Scotland, you will discover warmth and welcome, and no we’re not talking about the weather, Scots are some of the friendliest, most accommodating people you will ever meet.
But just what exactly makes Scotland so special and worthy of a place on your must-visit holiday list? It is our love of whisky, kilts and ceilidhs? The monster at the bottom of our loch or the strange prickly plant we use as our national symbol? Well, for starters, Scotland was voted ‘the most beautiful country in the world’ by roughguide.com readers.
So, we’ve put together a six-step guide on how to be happy like a Scot to help give you a taste of what it’s like to live here.
Step 1: Climb a Hill
Scotland is filled to the brim with walking routes and trails just waiting for you to explore. Whether you’re looking for a Lochside stroll, a challenging Munro to conquer, a tranquil woodland walk or a freeing coastal trail – Scotland has hundreds to choose from.
Get out there and explore one of Scotland’s best assets – the great outdoors. If you are looking for some addtional support on your Scottish hill walking adventure, check out our hiking page for a list of the guided tours we run.
Step 2: Drink Whisky, Lots of Whisky
Whisky is our national drink and biggest export, enjoyed well across the globe but served best right here at home. With over 100 distilleries spread across five different whisky regions there are lots of options to enjoy (responsibly of course) and plenty of opportunities to learn how they’re made. Each of our whiskies have their own unique flavour and character – you just have to taste a few to find your favourite.
Fun Fact: The spirit cannot be called Scotch until it has aged for at least three years.
Step 3: Island Hop
People living in the Highlands and islands are the happiest in Scotland, according to new research. The region came top in the latest Bank of Scotland Happiness Index, up from second place last year, with the natural environment and sense of community credited with helping to boost residents’ cheerfulness. So, whether you’ve only got a couple of days or a couple of weeks, it’s well worth taking the time to explore a few islands and discover the unique character of each.
The main island groups which are best suited for touring include the Inner Hebrides and the Outer Hebrides in the west of Scotland, and Orkney and Shetland in the north.
Step 4: Wild Swimming
Scotland. The ultimate natural playground. Here you can have a go at all the activities the country is legendary for, as well as some that you might not have heard of such as wild swimming, an increasingly popular outdoor activity here.
With over 10,000 kilometres of coastline, rivers, and countless lochs, the options for wild swimming are as endless as your imagination. Why not take a scenic trip up to Glen Coe or Loch Lomond and enjoy the mountains from a different perspective?
On a side note, if you like the sound of wild swimming… but are also looking for some added excitment. Our canyoning and coasteering day trips from Edinburgh provide you a adrenaline filled wet and wild adventure.
For more information about wild swimming check out our Introduction to Wild Swimming blog: here
Step 5: Embrace Nature
With hundreds of awe-inspiring natural landmarks, you won’t have to travel far to find scenic places in Scotland. We were also praised as one of Europe’s leading wildlife destinations, the adventures range from wild camping to whale watching.
Some popular destinations include; Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, one of the UK’s largest nature reserves, this paradise is a gateway to a whole host of outdoor activities including Munro-bagging, hiking, biking, loch cruises and more. Another favourite is the Fairy Pools of Skye, beautifully crystal-clear blue pools on the River Brittle.
These famous pools entice visitors from all over the world, as they make some great wild swimming for those brave enough to enter the cold water. For the less adventurous these magical Fairy Pools make for some fantastic photos.
Step 6: Eat Like a Scot
With the Atlantic on our doorstep, fresh mountain waters, lush rolling hills, fertile soil and varied weather, Scottish cuisine is renowned for its unrivalled quality. From Aberdeen Angus beef, Stornoway Black Pudding, Arbroath Smokies and Shetland salmon and shellfish to Scottish whisky, ales, scones, shortbread, not to forget haggis – Scotland is a culinary heaven for foodie lovers.
But it is that fizzy, orange hangover cure, square sausage and deep fried-just-about-anything, that is really our favourite.
MY Adventure and Intrepidus Outdoors are adventure tours and outdoor experience providers, both based in Edinburgh, Scotland. We specialise in private and open canyoning, coasteering, mountain biking and hill walking tours, and deliver these adventurous experiences across Scotland. We are also a provider of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Expeditions where we run bronze, silver and gold level awards for young people.
If you are looking for additional information about adventures from Edinburgh, we have published a number of blogs:
- 10 reasons to stand up paddle board: here
- The best breakfast spots in Edinburgh: here
- The best hotels and hostels in Edinburgh: here
- Stag Party Adventures Edinburgh: here
- Planning a Hen Party to Edinburgh: here
- Top Tips for Backpacking in Scotland: here
- Edinburgh Stag Party Ideas: here
- Hen Party Adventures Edinburgh: here
- Stag Party Outdoor Adventures Edinburgh Essentials: here
If you haven’t already seen it, check out the Intrepidus Outdoors Trip Advisor, Youtube channel, Visit Scotland page and blog to hear about how others found their outdoor adventures with us!