Stirling is a city with a long and rich history, boasting one of Scotland's best-preserved castles. It is also associated with the character of William Wallace, whose statue stands on one of the hills surrounding the city.
The Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is in the immediate vicinity of Stirling. It is a beautiful land of rugged mountains, moors and lakes with many hiking trails. Stirling acts as a local tourist destination and is a good base for excursions within the park.
The biggest attraction of Stirling is Castle Stritling built on a rocky hill above the town. The first mentions of it come from the 12th century, and its present appearance was given during the Renaissance reconstruction of the 16th century. The castle was one of the favorite seats of the Scottish Stuart family and the place of coronation of Maria Stuart, known as the Queen of Scots. The stronghold now houses the Argyll and Suterland Army Museum.
Many tourists also visit Stirling for the Wallace National Monument on Abbey Craig. William Wallace was a Scottish national hero and his story is told in the famous film Breaveheart. Inside the 67 meter high tower there are exhibitions dedicated to the figure of a Scottish warrior, the Battle of Stirling Bridge, a historical exhibition for children and an observation deck.
