Star Collector: Kilts, Celts & Crepes

From the Firth of Forth, a UNESCO site, to the Royal Mile, Edinburgh is steeped in history. Edinburgh Castle. The Royal Botanic Gardens. The UNESCO site of Old Town. The wonders of Edinburgh are never ending. From one of Europe’s best-preserved castles to the world’s longest herbaceous border, a riot of color and culture pervades. In this city as old as Scotland itself, you’ll find the perfect blend of historic tradition and natural beauty

The scenic fishing town of Ullapool is nestled on the shores of Loch Broom and is the gateway to the Northern Highlands. The North Atlantic Drift passes by here bringing moderate temperatures. Described as an outdoor paradise, Ullapool was voted one of the UK’s top 10 outdoor destinations. It offers a delightful choice of varied walks and footpaths. Nearby is the Inverpolly National Nature Reserve, home to pine martens, wildcats, and golden eagles and one of the most photographed hills in the area, Stac Pollaidh, with its unique shape.

Oban has developed into Scotland's most popular West-Coast holiday town. Just outside the town stands Dunollie Castle, on a site that overlooks the  bay and has been fortified since the Bronze Age. The charm of its Victorian harbor offers an excellent seafood scene, and is also a major gateway to the Hebrides.

Probably best known as the birthplace of the Titanic, Belfast was a hub for not only shipbuilding but also tobacco processing, rope-making and Irish linen in the early 20th century. Today the old shipyards are giving way to luxury apartments in what is known as the Titanic Quarter, home to the Titanic Belfast Centre, a beautiful star-shaped building covering the Titanic’s construction. Other must-sees include the Ulster Folk Museum and the Belfast Cathedral, as well as numerous award-winning restaurants and bars.

Dublin is a city of delights and surprises. Stroll across the Ha’Penny Bridge to Trinity College for a glimpse of the Book of Kells. Step inside the 11th century Dublin Castle. Stop by the Guinness Storehouse or Old Jameson Distillery for a taste of Irish history. And embrace the beauty of Dublin Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Located off the southwestern coast of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly are a popular holiday destination in the United Kingdom. This stunning archipelago is usually only accessible by ferry or helicopter.  With pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere, the Isles of Scilly offer a true escape into natural beauty and serenity. Depending on the weather conditions, you will be able to visit up to 3 different islands, each offering something unique.

Amsterdam, the Venice of the North, where more than 1,500 bridges arch gracefully over scenic canals. The stately 17^th century homes of Dutch merchants line the canals and museums are everywhere, filled with masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age. Most of the sightseeing essentials are conveniently collected in the Canal Ring, the central area of the city which is designated as a UNESCO site. Here you’ll find the Anne Frank House, the Royal Palace, the Red Light District, and most of the museums. Mind all the bicycles!

Amsterdam, the Venice of the North, where more than 1,500 bridges arch gracefully over scenic canals. The stately 17^th century homes of Dutch merchants line the canals and museums are everywhere, filled with masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age. Most of the sightseeing essentials are conveniently collected in the Canal Ring, the central area of the city which is designated as a UNESCO site. Here you’ll find the Anne Frank House, the Royal Palace, the Red Light District, and most of the museums. Mind all the bicycles!

The entire city center of Bruges has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with Flemish and Renaissance architecture made all the more beautiful when reflected in the city’s many canals. Shop for legendary lace, or a pint of Belgian beer.

The entire city center of Bruges has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with Flemish and Renaissance architecture made all the more beautiful when reflected in the city’s many canals. Shop for legendary lace, or a pint of Belgian beer.

This port city on the Seine River and gateway to Paris is full of beautiful architecture and is an art-lover’s delight. Museums are plentiful here including the Historial Jeanne d’Arc and the Musee des Beaux-Arts with the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France. Stroll the many local markets full of fresh produce and flowers and dine at one of the incredible restaurants featuring fresh ingredients from this region.

This port city on the Seine River and gateway to Paris is full of beautiful architecture and is an art-lover’s delight. Museums are plentiful here including the Historial Jeanne d’Arc and the Musee des Beaux-Arts with the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France. Stroll the many local markets full of fresh produce and flowers and dine at one of the incredible restaurants featuring fresh ingredients from this region.

This port city on the Seine River and gateway to Paris is full of beautiful architecture and is an art-lover’s delight. Museums are plentiful here including the Historial Jeanne d’Arc and the Musee des Beaux-Arts with the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France. Stroll the many local markets full of fresh produce and flowers and dine at one of the incredible restaurants featuring fresh ingredients from this region.

Sitting on the estuary where the Seine River meets the English Channel, the charming character of this harbor town has been the subject of artists like Claude Monet and Eugene Boudin. The 15^th century St. Catherine’s church is an interesting vaulted timber structure built by shipbuilders. And a walk along the edge of the Honfleur Estuary will pass town gardens, beaches, and a view of the Normandy Bridge. You can also find the intriguing local cider along the Route du Cidre.

Once notorious as the home of pirates, St.-Malo today is better known for the UNESCO site monastery and town of Mont St. Michel and the famous oysters of nearby Cancale. Walk the city’s ramparts, or pass the time at a seaside boulangerie sampling a fresh and buttery croissant. 

A unique feature in this seaport steeped in maritime history is that only one cruise ship a day can come here so a visit to this town is exclusive. Visit the Church of Our Lady of Victory, a UNESCO site with a bell tower made of concrete. Also find the Tour de la Decouverte and climb the 216 steps to a panoramic view of the port and sea.

Bordeaux has long been known as La Belle au Bois Dormant, Sleeping Beauty.  And while the beauty part is undeniable, the sleeping part could be argued. Sure, the region is filled with treasures from long ago, including more than 350 historic monuments and buildings in the city alone. But the capital of Aquitaine is also home to a vibrant culture and, as oenophiles well know, is the gateway to some of France’s most famous vineyards. In this UNESCO World Heritage city, 13th century cathedrals and 18th century palaces are commonplace. Venture beyond the city’s borders to the chateaux of the Médoc region or to Saint-Émilion, a breathtaking medieval village set among the vineyards that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.