1. What makes Scotland so distinctive? There are some things that are uniquely Scottish, such as Highland Games, but in truth, there's no single element that defines the country. Rather, it's a subtle blend of many different ingredients that have been added to the mix down through the centuries.uniquely ScottishHighland Games Here, you can find a flavour of these - Scotland's often turbulent past, her extraordinary people, the rich diversity of her arts and culture, and the many other features found around the country which have produced a nation that treasures its past and keenly anticipates its future.featuresaround the country To help you discover the best that Scotland has to offer, check out our extensive range of itineraries and begin exploring the country at your own pace.itineraries From customs to climate and midges to the media, get all the hints, tips and essential information you'll need to help you have the perfect visit to Scotland with our useful new section.essential information

2. Walking Events Throughout Scotland you will find a wide range of events with a walking theme ranging from a short countryside ranger led walk to week long walking festivals amidst breathtaking scenery. Scroll down this page to find a selection of key walking events taking place throughout Scotland in 2006.

3. Scottish Mountain Biking Events The increasing popularity of mountain biking in Scotland has brought with it a growing number of mountain biking events taking place throughout the country. Some of these are for spectating only, some for taking part and competing in. Check out the entries below and on the ensuing pages for information. Whether you're spectating or planning to take part you're sure to find something that will keep your enthusiasm high. If you'd like to have a mountain biking event featured on these pages please email cycling@visitscotland.comcycling@visitscotland.com

4. Events Page This section of the website is dedicated to bringing you information on golf events in Scotland. From world class golf tournaments such as The Open Championship to one of the many competitions that you can take part in at golf clubs throughout Scotland. Events you can watch range from professional to amateur, ladies to juniors and are all about you coming and watching others play golf. You can also view competitions and events that you can take part in. It can be a tremendous feeling playing in a competition in Scotland, as Tom Watson said "Golfing in Scotland is the most fun I've ever had playing golf"

5. Scotland's larder has always overflowed with some of the finest produce to be found anywhere in the British Isles (and in some cases, further afield). Chefs can draw on the best quality ingredients from both land and sea to produce innovative and imaginative menus across a wide range of culinary styles and from a range of international cuisines. And wherever you travel around the country, you should also grab any chance to sample the local delicacies - Arbroath smokies, Lochfyne kippers, Forfar Bridies, Selkirk bannocks, Orkney, Islay or Galloway cheeses, Dundee cake, Moffat toffee to name but a few. Of course, amongst the gems in the national larder - or more accurately, the national drinks cabinet - is whisky, and when it comes to the water of life, Scotch is recognised the world over as being without equal. You can learn more about the national drink at ScotlandWhisky.com.ScotlandWhisky.com So whether your tastes are domestic or global, Scotland can offer you gastronomic experiences of the highest order.

6. Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen, Inverness and Stirling are all modern, dynamic and thriving centres which encapsulate all that is best about Scotland as it moves into the new century. Each has a distinctive character of its own but all guarantee their visitors a vibrant mix of history, culture and entertainment, stirred together with some of the best retail therapy in the UK! But if the cosmopolitan pace gets too much, then an escape to the tranquility of Scotland's breathtaking landscape is never more than a short trip from each. So whether you opt for a dedicated city-break or use them as a base to explore the surrounding countryside, Scotland's cities offer a truly memorable experience.