In the shadow of ruins of St. Andrews Castle, the rocky Castle Beach is St. Andrews’ smallest. Take a stroll on the sand to decompress after a visit to the castle.

In 1746, this sleepy meadow less than ten miles east of Inverness witnessed the culmination of the Jacobite Rising in what is to this day the last great battle to have been fought on British soil. The Battle of Culloden ended Bonnie Prince Charlie's ill-fated crusade and devastated his beleaguered volunteer army of Stuart-sympathizing clansmen. The consequences of their defeat were grave for many Highlanders, even those who had not collaborated directly in the rebellion. The Duke of Cumberland, commander of the English loyalist forces, punctuated his decisive victory with a brutal assimilation program intended to destabilize clan allegiances, enfeeble Gaelic cultural institutions and subdue, once and for all, a region perceived to be both backward and insurrectionary. A state-of-the-art visitors' center tells the story of the complicated conflict from both Jacobite and English perspectives.

Drive just two hours southwest from St Andrews, and you’ll stumble upon this tiny town (a 2006 survey estimated the population to be just 395). Once a port city, Culross boasts significant architectural treasures, all cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. Visitors should not miss Culross Palace, which features foreign materials like Dutch tiles and Baltic pine as well as a fine collection of pottery. Another main attraction is the 13th-century abbey, where visitors can explore ruins of the nave and cellars, or attend a service at the still-functional church, used by the Church of Scotland. While in town, grab a bite at Biscuit Café at Culross Pottery and Gallery (www.culrosspottery.com/garden/index.html; 44 1383 882050).

Perhaps the most popular whisky distillery in Scotland, Dewar’s is set in the town of Aberfeldy, a logistical stop between Edinburgh and the Highlands. The estate’s main building is an old stone house that features a small museum dedicated to the legacy of John Dewar, a tasting lounge and a shop. Tours run regularly and include a guided visit to the distillery and warehouse and cask tastings are available. While whisky snobs might scoff at the thought of visiting such a commercial operation, it’s worth noting that this particular facility not only produces the mass-market Dewar’s label, but also an excellent single malt scotch called Aberfeldy.

Scotland’s most famous castle sits on a small island located at the meeting point for three lochs. This iconic fortress dates back to the 13^th century and has been the subject of many clan feuds. The interiors have been carefully preserved and guests can easily explore the entire structure, from the ramparts to the bedroom chambers. At dusk, the castle is particularly picturesque. Eilean Donan Castle is about an hour drive from either Fort William or Inverness, and it’s a good mid-way stop on a day trip to Isle of Skye.

Defined by dramatic cliffs and stretching beaches, the Scotland coastline is a beauty to take in, and even more thrilling to explore. The Fife Coastal Path spans 117 miles—all or some of which can be navigated depending on experience level—but the area just west of Elie village makes a great half-day trip from St Andrews. The aptly named Elie Chain Walk follows a stretch of chain-lined path that hugs the sea. While the adventure is not considered dangerous, it is advised that children under the age of nine don’t partake.

Learn the ancient art of falconry, which dates back to 2,000 BC, during an introductory lesson with a trained game-hawker. With falcons, hawks and barn owls on hand for everything from beginner-level walks to four-week courses, all levels of expertise are welcome.

This deep, verdant valley is as notable for its dramatic scenery as it is for its history. The Massacre of Glencoe took place in 1692, when 38 members of the MacDonald clan were killed by their guests in their own home, which was not only a horrific act but it breached medieval hospitality laws, which explicitly states that one does not kill their guest or host). This event was the inspiration behind Game of Thrones’ “Red Wedding” and the landscape was featured in the James Bond film Skyfall.

St Andrews is rich in history, culture and beautiful scenery and a guided tour is a great way explore some off-the-beaten-path spots as well as the more iconic sites with a friendly and knowledgeable guide/driver. Indagare members can contact the Bookings Team to arrange full-, part- or multi-day tours.

Thanks to its picturesque countryside and long equestrian tradition, Scotland is the perfect place to go for a leisurely ride or more advanced excursion. Indagare members can contact the Bookings Team to arrange a lesson for riders of any level.

Scotland boasts some of the worlds most difficult—and dramatic—golf courses in the world, making it one of the top destinations for serious golfers. Now the stakes (and bragging rights) are even higher, as Indagare can arrange a private round with a PGA Professional. Indagare members can contact our Bookings Team to set up an intensive half-day of golf for one - three people.

If golf is a little too slow-paced for you, there are a number of other physical activities for you to investigate. Land yachting, kayaking and stand-up-paddling are just some of the ways to pass the time in St Andrews. Indagare members can contact the Bookings Team to arrange a lesson.

Once home to monks and Vikings, the Isle of May is now alight with wildlife and hiking trails for exploring. Fall and winter are the best time visit to see seals, while spring and summer afford fantastic bird watching. For a different perspective, take in the rugged cliffs by boat (half-day tours run often).

Fans of Harry Potter will instantly recognize this steam locomotive as the Hogwarts Express. The two-hour scenic ride (each way) runs between the lakeside town of Fort William to the port of Malleig, the jump-off point to the Isle of Skye. The route goes through gorgeous countryside, including a viaduct crossing and picture-perfect vistas of lochs and glens. The train runs twice daily in the summer but has reduced service through the rest of the year.

The Johnnie Walker Experience is at Johnnie Walker’s beautiful new headquarters on Prince’s Street and has a variety of immersive experiences.