Archaeological Tourism- the latest buzz word in Scotland tourism
Scotland tourism need not always mean kits, castles, caber tossing, haggis and bagpipers. These days Scotland is promoting archaeological tourism to enable the guests to delve deep into the glorious past of Scotland and its culture.
Tony Robinson of Blackadder fame is the poster boy for Visit Scotland’s latest initiative of promoting archaeological tourism. The tourism board has developed convenient five-day tour packages for the guests to explore and experience the 10,000 year legacy of Scotland. An archaeological wonderland, Scotland has many forts, medieval monasteries and stone circles. The archaeological trails would take the visitors to the unexplored northern and western islands of the country. Island chains like the Orkneys, Shetlands, and Hebrides has many archaeological masterpieces that are well preserved. The rugged terrains and extreme weather conditions have kept these remote island chains largely unexplored.
Skara Brae, in the Orkneys off the north coast of Scotland is the most popular of it all. This amazing Neolithic village founded about 5,000 years ago is listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The tiny habitats made from local stones are sunk into the earth to protect these from natural vagaries and inclement weather conditions. The shelves, hearths and stone furniture of these homes are still in good shape and one of the houses even has a toilet with a drain.
The itineraries also give useful tips on historic hotels, travel options and B & Bs in the area. So, what are you waiting for? If you think you have done it all and seen the prominent landmarks of Scotland including palaces, castles and dingy ways, it is high time that you turn your gaze to the past. Take a trip down the memory lane and pick up interesting information on the culture and the ways of living of your forefathers.