As we continue to pledge our New Year’s resolutions and frantically search for countries all over the world to add to our ever-growing travel bucket lists, it can be hard to know where to start.

Visit Scotland declared 2017 Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology, here are some of Scotland’s hidden gems, monuments and spectacular scenery that has inspired many visitors to describe Scotland as ‘breathtaking’.

Forest Holidays has collated some of the world’s most stunning places, all of which can be found on our doorstep.

The Herald:

Ardgartan Credit: Robert Birkby / Alamy Stock Photo

There’s no need to visit Brazil to experience a majestic rainforest when we have one just a stone’s throw away. The Caledonian Forest was an ancient Atlantic temperate rainforest and boasts majestic mountains and enchanting rivers.

Ardgartan is a great place for adventurers with plenty of summits to be conquered and marked trails to guide keen walkers through the hills.

The Herald:

Achmelvich Beach Credit: Mike Finn-Kelcey / Alamy Stock Photo

You would be forgiven for mistaking this photogenic beach for Greece’s famous Shipwreck Beach in Zakynthos.

This is in fact Achmelvich beach - just as remarkable without the need for getting a boat (or plane) there.

The Herald:

Dunrobin Castle Credit: Grant Glendinning / Alamy Stock Photo

With high turrets, flawless gardens and 189 rooms, Donrobin Castle is arguably a captivating as one of the many castles and chateaux that sit along the Dordogne River in France.

The Herald:

National Monument of Scotland Credit: godrick / Alamy Stock Photo

Rivalling the backdrop of the ancient ruins of Athens, the National Monument of Scotland stands proud on Calton Hill in Edinburgh, commemorating those who died in the Napoleonic Wars.

Take a stroll to the top of the hill to enjoy panoramic views of the city including Edinburgh Castle, Salisbury Crags, Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park.

The Herald:

Vatersay Beach, Outer Hebrides Credit: ARV / Alamy Stock Photo

The most southerly inhabited island of the Outer Hebrides, Vatersay epitomises island relaxation.

The island is barely populated, giving uninterrupted views of sunsets that would even make Antigua envious.

The Herald:

Cairngorms National Park Credit: Mar Photographics / Alamy Stock Photo

Located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Cairngorms has everything from water sports, snow sports and wildlife watching, making it the perfect place to treat the family.

The mountain range offers an amazing 30km of ski runs as well as cross-country skiing – why would you need to jump on a plane to The Alps?

For more information, please visit Forest Holidays at https://www.forestholidays.co.uk/locations/scotland-holidays