Rosyth, in the county of Fife, is a gateway to the North Sea and an ideal start for other parts of Scotland. Within easy driving distance is Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. To explore Edinburgh is to step back in time as it can be easily said that someone famous either lived in or visited almost every residence. From medieval Old Town to Georgian New Town, Edinburgh is a gracious city famed for the elegance of its architecture, dramatic skyline, parks and open spaces.
ROYAL LINEAGE
Dominating Old Town at the top of the Royal Mile is the famed Edinburgh Castle, which proudly houses the Scottish Crown Jewels, and includes the magnificent St. Margaret's Chapel, the oldest landmark in Edinburgh. Also visit the apartment of Mary Queen of Scots, and the birthplace of her son, James.
NOBLE RHYTM
Outside the 12th-century castle, the expansive Esplanade is where each year the Edinburgh Military Tattoo celebrates with a parade of bagpipes and Scottish military drums. Stroll from the Esplanade down the Royal Mile to the heart of Old Town. At the lower end of the Royal Mile is the splendid Holyrood Palace, a royal retreat since the 16th century.
LITERARY IMAGES
In Princes Street Gardens, a 200-foot monument honors Sir Walter Scott's contribution to Scottish literature. The historic 1622 Lady Stair's House exhibits work by Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson and Robert Burns. At the National Gallery of Scotland is art by the Old Masters and French Impressionists.
FOOD AND WHISKY
Stop by the Scotch Whisky Heritage Center to see the history and distilling process of Scotland's most famous export. Scotch boasts a worldwide reputation with over 2,000 brands. Also sample traditional cuisine of stovies, haggis or a Scotch broth made from mutton, barley and fresh vegetables.