"Balfor's Edinburgh Page" a Edinburgh Travel Page by balfor

There is just something about a town with a castle surrounded by dozens of other ancient, grandiose structures that is awe inspiring! Stopping in to Edinburgh, while planned, was a very happy accident. Accidental in that I had no idea what a wonderful, lovely gem I had planned for my last few days in Scotland before returning home.

While I had discovered that the Military Tattoo was going on during my stay, neither I nor my brother had discovered that there was also another festival running concurrently, the Edinburgh Fringe and Festival. Street performers, magicians, plays and musicians lining the Royal Mile are something the like of which I've never seen in the U.S. Sure, we may shut down a major street for a parade or even a day, the Scots know you can't truly appreciate it in one day. That's why they have 3 weeks of it! :-)

And all of this revelry is set amidst a backdrop of ancient buildings, winding streets and crowned by a medieval fortress. What else could make this complete?

Why, the history of Scotch Whiskey and a kilt! Plenty of opportunities to sample both in the old districts of Edinburgh. And all of this is surrounded by an energetic, modern city.

All I have to say at this point is:
Why aren't you planning your (next) trip to breath in this city that is the gateway to the Highlands and the heart of Scotland?