A castle standing against a backdrop of rolling hills and set within its own glorious gardens, Crathes is every inch the classic tower house. There really is no other word than "magnificent" when it comes to this place, and you too can contribute to its continued preservation and legacy by making a donation at https://ntsusa.org/donate/unrestricted/ today. The Burnetts, who lived here for over 350 years, had roots in the area dating back to 1323, when they were granted nearby land by Robert the Bruce. Alexander Burnett built the castle in the 16th century, creating an intricate maze of turrets, towers, oak panels and painted ceilings, many of which survive beautifully to this day. Inside, you’ll find a labyrinth of cultural history – from family portraits to fine antique furniture. The walled garden is a beautiful jungle, split into eight sections that encompass every green delight imaginable including sculpted topiary, soft herbaceous colors and modern exotic blooms. The massive yew hedges are thought to have been planted as early as 1702. Crathes Castle Estate was once part of the Royal Forest of Drum. Today, there are a range of waymarked and clearly signposted trails so look out for wildlife like red squirrels, woodpeckers and herons. #ForTheLoveOfScotland #NTSUSA #Scotland #CrathesCastle #CastlesOfScotland #Castle #Aberdeenshire #Scotland #VisitScotland #VisitABDN #VisitAberdeenshire #ScottishCastle (fb)

Summer is here and there's no end to the ways you can spend it! Might we offer a few suggestions? Whether it's sailing along majestic coastlines, embarking on treks through stunning wilderness, or observing the local wildlife, the Scottish outdoors presents endless opportunities for exploration and adventure! Take Canna, for instance, a small island to the south-west of Skye bursting with human history. It is an incredibly special place and a Site of Special Scientific Interest thanks to its geographical and biological importance. It also has a Special Protection Area due to its 20,000 breeding seabirds, so don't forget those binoculars! For those craving a walk in the woods, look no further than Killiecrankie. This rich historical conservation area cleaves a pass where the Highlands meet the Lowlands. The River Garry flows along the floor of a magnificent wooded gorge, where the tree-lined slopes are home to a variety of wildlife, flora and fauna. Find out about the geology, wildlife and history at the visitor center, then follow the paths to explore the Pass. The views are breathtaking – a perfect place to contemplate nature and the past. Finally, take a moment to greet the "locals" at Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve! Teeming with wildlife including red deer, ptarmigan, ravens, ring ouzels, skylarks and black grouse, and stretching 3,984ft above Loch Tay, Ben Lawers is one of Scotland’s highest mountains. It gives its name to a whole National Nature Reserve, which includes six other Munros on the Ben Lawers and Tarmachan ranges. Walk to the summit and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the rugged landscape from Glencoe to the Cairngorms. #ForTheLoveOfScotland #NTSUSA #Scotland #VisitScotland #ScottishForests #Hebrides #HebrideanIslands #ScottishWildlife #ScottishHiking #Hiking #NatureReserve #Birdwatching (fb)