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It’s easy to think that the world’s most impressive sights must require long-haul flights and heading off the beaten track. But with Scotland voted the most beautiful country in the world, according to Rough Guide, it’s a good reminder that some gems are on the doorstep.

The country beat off Canada, New Zealand and England to the title, not to mention Italy, Indonesia and India, thanks to its lochs, mountains, islands and beaches.

So if you’ve yet to explore beyond Glasgow and Edinburgh, Visit Scotland has some tips to start you off:

• Luskentyre beach on the Isle of Harris regularly makes the lists of top beaches in the world — and from a photo, looks as it it comes straight from the Caribbean.
• Galloway Forest Park — one of the darkest places in Scotland and the UK’s first Dark Sky Park is perfect for star gazers.
• The Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye — you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to magical views and wild landscapes, often with myths, legends and stories woven into the stones, but this stunning spot is one of the best.
• The Glenfinnan viaduct — what journey could beat the chance to soar across this dramatic piece of track, famously in the Harry Potter films but just as impressive for non-fans. Or drivers should cruise along North Coast 500 route, for epic scenery, coast and beach.

New lodges at Center Parcs

Center Parcs fans can check into a new style of accommodation being introduced next year at the Elveden Forest site in Suffolk. The Waterside Lodges are set in the heart of the 400-acre forest, with views out onto the lake.