Exactly at this time a year ago, I spent a few days near Edinburgh, Scotland. I didn’t have time to do a lot of sightseeing, but still managed to get around a bit and take in some beautiful views of the city.

There is, first and foremost, Edinburgh Castle, sitting in the middle of Edinburgh on a hill. You have a nice view of the city and beyond from up there.

Of course it was packed with tourists, so I didn’t go in – but the ice cream sold at the truck on the square in front of the castle was super tasty.

Since I also like to go off the beaten path a bit, I took a bus to Inverleith and walked to Inverleith Park. It is a place where people play all kinds of sports, or walk their dogs, or have fun with their kids. Plus, you have a nice view of the city as well.

I would have loved to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia – but didn’t make it in time for the last admission. So check their opening hours if you want to go aboard.

Driving west along the waterfront towards Hopetoun House, you get a nice view of the spectacular Forth Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge.

Hopetoun House itself is quite impressive, but a really neat place to have tea and delicious cake is The Stables Kitchen, a tea room and restaurant in, you guessed it, the former stables of the 17th century mansion.

I had a great time in and around Edinburgh – and I most certainly will come back, hopefully with more time to explore everything – and have more tea.