We’re thrilled to announce our new Scotland Untour, with our first arrival dates this fall. Stay tuned for details or sign up to get first notice when it is ready to book. In the meantime, here is a little more about our homebase there, and the reasons we have chosen Stirling and its surrounding countryside to host our Untour.
1. Stirling is vibrant. Enjoy its cobbled shopping streets, art centers, parks, and cozy cafes and pubs. Stirling’s medieval old town will captivate you. You’ll find a strong sense of place in the city’s castles and parks.
2. Stirling is central. Located in the heart of the country, Stirling is served by a train line with regular departures to Glasgow and Edinburgh. Both are an hour or less by train, and the region offers great highway access with many beautiful day trip options by car like Callander, Loch Lomond, and Oban.
3. Stirling is scenic. They don’t call it the Gateway to the Highlands for nothing. This town is surrounded by lush, lovely countryside, with magnificent views along the River Forth. Day trip by car into the western highlands from here and marvel at Scotland’s extraordinary natural beauty.
4. Stirling is tasteful. Drink local to discover its best. Visit the Deanston Distillery for a tasting, or head to Allanwater Brewhouse for a microbrew. Try fine dining in one of the city’s elegant restaurants, or just enjoy a sip of scotch and a hearty meal at the corner pub.
5. Stirling is historic. On the grounds of a Stone Age settlement, Stirling became an important strategic point under Roman occupation, it remained a key defensive post for centuries, and it was an important battle site in the Wars of Scottish Independence. This one-time capital of Scotland is filled with castles, monuments, and historic churches.
6. Stirling is friendly. Pull up a stool at the local pub or strike up a conversation on a park bench and see for yourself. Spend some time chatting with your local Untours staffer, who lives nearby. She and your apartment host will welcome you into the culture.
7. Stirling is smart. Aside from being a smart choice for a homebase, the town itself is learned. The University of Stirling attracts bright minds from around the world and adds an intellectual backbone to this vibrant city. The Macrobert Art Centre hosts eclectic programs in two theaters, a cinema, and exhibition space.
8. Stirling is regal. Stirling Castle is considered by many to be the best castle in Scotland, and its rich programming offers brilliant Medieval living history. Nearby, the 14th century Doune Castle is another gem, with a special place in the hearts of Monty Python and Outlander fans.
9. Stirling is proud. And it should be. If the list above is not enough reason for the locals to be proud of their city, watch this video to see more.
Eager to go? We don’t blame you. Our first arrivals will be in fall of 2016. Sign up here to get details as soon as they are available.