کالتون هیل

You can get a good overview of the city (both the old and new) from this hill with beautiful monuments.

Calton Hill isn't your average tourist trap. Sure, it boasts breathtaking views of Edinburgh and iconic monuments, but beneath the surface lies a treasure trove of untold stories.

For starters, did you know the hill was once a contender for the Scottish Parliament building? Talk about an alternative timeline! Now, it's a haven for locals and nature enthusiasts, with a hidden gem – the City Observatory. This 18th-century wonder isn't just beautiful, it's rumored to be haunted by the ghost of its first astronomer, a fellow with a penchant for late-night stargazing (perhaps a little too much enthusiasm!).

But Calton Hill isn't all hauntings. The hill played a crucial role in the birth of a new art form – the panorama. In the early 19th century, artists would climb the hill to capture the breathtaking cityscape, inspiring the creation of panoramic paintings that were all the rage in Europe.

So, next time you're in Edinburgh, skip the crowded attractions and head to Calton Hill. With its panoramic views, quirky history, and a touch of the unknown, it's a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Just keep your eyes peeled for the resident sheepdogs.

The first public park in Edinburgh is a first rate! Just beautiful. The uphill climb is a challenge. Better to bring a bottle of water going up.

The park also has toilets if you need a quick loo. Well-maintained as well.

If I had to pick just one place to go in Edinburgh, It would be definitely Calton Hill. From Princess Street in the centre you're up in exactly 10 minutes and you won't find a more beautiful view anywhere. There are several landmarks on the hill - the National Monument with its ancient columns, the space observatory, the Nelson Monument in the form of a narrow tower and, most importantly, the iconic Dugald Steward Monument, the 'gazebo' that you just can't go home without a photo of this.