7 things to do on Islay in Scotland

My husband and I are from Barbados but we visit family in the US a few times a year. Living in Barbados, it's often difficult and expensive to find specialty food and ingredients, so we rely on our Trader Joe's trips to Miami to grab the items we can't find in our hometown.

A reader asks whether it’s possible to traverse much of Scotland in just one week. Our expert has some thoughts.

There are so many majestic landscapes to view and things to do in Scotland that it can be hard to narrow down where to visit. So why not choose your hotels as a starting point? Scotland is known for its inclement weather, so choosing a hotel with spa facilities can be an excellent backup for something to do if the weather is terrible. It can also be a great way to soothe weary muscles and feet after all the hiking and sightseeing.

Northern Ireland's second city and Ireland's northern-most county sit rather snug together in the corner of the island of Ireland. But many are yet to discover the two make a fantastic combination for a twin break. Blending thought-provoking history, striking landmarks and an incredible natural world, Derry~Londonderry and County Donegal's Inishowen Peninsula offer everything you could wish for in a short, action-packed getaway.

They call us the Honest Men, which makes me laugh every time the team gets caught cheating. Ayr United takes its moniker from a 1791 Robert Burns line: ‘Auld Ayr, wham ne’er a toun surpasses, for honest men, and bonnie lasses.’ I often wonder if those things were true then; I know they aren’t now.

Enter the AFAR Media “Glasgow Getaway” sweepstakes by March 14, 2016, for a chance to win the grand prize: a trip for two to Glasgow, Scotland, including air, four nights’ hotel, airport transfers, tours, one dinner.

Enter the Golf Advisor “Great Scot Getaway” sweepstakes by May 22, 2016, for a chance to win the grand prize: a seven-night trip to Scotland for four, including air, hotel, golf rounds at five clubs (including St. Andrews), rental car, and $1,000 spending money.

Given its plethora of landscapes, it’s easy to see why Arran, the largest island in the Firth of Clyde, is regarded as a sort of Scotland in miniature. From fog-wreathed peaks to scenic coastal paths, it has something for everyone. And with Scotland’s ‘Big Five’ (seals, otters, red deer, golden eagles and red squirrels) all in residence, its wildlife is no less diverse. But there’s more to this jagged isle than crumbling cliffs and rare birds of prey — the Isle of Arran is also something of a gastronomical hub, boasting a proud community of artisans, restaurateurs and brewers. With a single A-road forming a loop around the island, a weekend getaway gives you the chance to experience everything Arran has to offer.

The National Trust for Scotland Mountain Path Team are at work repairing a path up near Mullach an Rathain summit, on Liathach in Torridon. The team’s primary aim is to prevent irreversible environmental damage to fragile habitats, not to enhance access. The NTS cares for some of Scotland’s magnificent landscapes and more than 400 miles of path on Glen Coe, Kintail, West Affric, Mar Lodge Estate, Grey Mare’s Tail ,Torridon, Goatfell, Ben Lawers and Ben Lomond.

Long overshadowed by refined, tourist-clogged Edinburgh, Scotland's second city has been quietly proving that it's far from second best. Glasgow's cultural plaudits are hefty, from Rennie Mackintosh's architectural triumphs (beyond the sadly fire-damaged School of Art) to the street-art-splashed east end. Culture aside, Glasgow's food scene is one of the most vibrant in Scotland – a far cry from tales of deep-fried Mar Bars paired with Irn Bru, this is a city that really knows how to feed you. Add to that a buzzing nightlife scene and a growing crop of great places to stay, and you'll find everything you need in Glasgow for a weekend break. Keen to give Scotland’s coolest city a try? We’re not surprised. Here’s everything you need to know before your trip:

Scotland sports such a strong selection of tourist attractions – from castles and cabers to kilts and whisky – it’s easy to forget that there is much more to this land. Venture away from the cities and you'll find rugged mountains, remote glens and mile-upon-mile of wave-lashed beaches. Ready to explore? Here are seven Scottish places that you've probably never heard of, but must visit.

Wild landscapes and deserted beaches. Fine food and outdoor adventure. Deer, dolphins and mythical monsters. As Rough Guides contributor Keith Drew discovered, the Scottish Highlands have all the ingredients for a family holiday to remember. Read on to discover his top things to do in the Highlands. You might also want to discover the most beautiful places in Scotland, as voted by Rough Guides readers.