Alsi Resort – Overview, Reviews, Pros, And Cons

BY  Sibashree Oct 28, 2024

The Shenandoah National Park has many wonders that you just cannot miss. So, you can witness the beauty of Bearfence Mountain and its waterfalls and explore its endless hiking trails.   As a rich wildlife hub, it is also home to white-tailed deer, black bears, red-tailed hawks, Carolina chickadees, and many more.   So, to cut a long story short, the Shenandoah National Park has everything for everyone. Moreover, it does not matter whether you are a birder or an avid trekker.   However, one thing is certain: you can only enjoy the park to the fullest if you are camping here or at least spending nights at the local lodges. Therefore, I am sharing a brief guide about the campsites and other accommodation options in the park.   Shenandoah National Park Camping   https://www.instagram.com/p/CvPj7WmAt6a/ Shenandoah National Park offers you the best chance to sleep under the stars with its five functional campgrounds.   Further, these campgrounds are open from early spring to late fall. Also, you can know about their availability with a simplified alert system.   So, do you want to plan your next camping expedition at Shenandoah National Park?  Loft Mountain Campground  https://www.instagram.com/p/Bykz80iADRN/ In the southern part of the Shenandoah National Park lies the Loft Mountain. Further, it is at the top of the  Big Flat Mountain. Also, it is a large camping zone with a total of 207 sites.   Further, you will get a beautiful view of the eastern and western sides from the Loft Mountain Campground. In addition, the waterfalls and the trails to the Big Run Wilderness allow you to explore the park fully. Moreover, the table below shows the amenities available (not available) at Loft Mountain Campground.  Amenities Available  Cell Phone Network No Internet Connectivity No Recycling/Trash Collection Yes, on a seasonal basis Camp Store Seasonal availability  Food Storage Lockers  Yes Ice for Sale Yes Staff on Site Available Seasonally  Amphitheater Available Seasonally  Firewood for Sale Firewood is available. However, you must strictly adhere to the park's fire and stove policy. * Laundry Available Seasonally  Dump Station Available Seasonally  Potable Water Seasonal Availability  Shower Type Seasonal Availability (coin-operated)  *You can only use USDA-certified firewood in the park, and this is a measure to stop the unnecessary spread of emerald ash borer. However, you can also use deadwood or brunches in the park to ignite fire in the fire grates provided by the park.   Further, you must fully extinguish the fire before leaving the spot, and you cannot use charcoal.   Fees And Reservation At Loft Mountain Campground  Loft Mountain Campground has non-electric sites for tents and RVs. Further, only six people can stay at a time at a standard campsite. Moreover, a camping site can accommodate one RV at a time.   In addition, the fee for each campsite is $30.   Further, the campsites of Loft Mountain Campground come on a combination basis. Nevertheless, the best method is to reserve a site.   However, campsites are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.   Lewis Mountain Campground  Lewis Mountain Campground is the smallest in the park, with a stretch of only 57.5 miles. Also, just 7 miles away from the Big Meadows, this campground offers a quiet and more private experience.   The sites are available on self-registrations. Further, you can get a site on a first-come and first-served basis.   Amenities Available  Cell Phone Network No Internet Connectivity No Recycling/Trash Collection Yes, on a seasonal basis Camp Store Yes, on a seasonal basis Food Storage Lockers  Seasonal Availability Ice for Sale Yes, Available Seasonally Staff on Site Seasonal  Amphitheater No Firewood for Sale Available Seasonally** Laundry Available Seasonally  Dump Station No Potable Water Seasonal Availability  Shower Type Seasonal Availability (coin-operated)  **You must abide by the fire safety regulations to stop the spread of the emerald ash borer. Further, remember the following points to avoid fire-related mishaps.   You can use deadwood or dried branches to light a fire in the fire grates.  Further, make sure that you extinguish the fire properly after use.  Also, you can carry camping and backpacking stoves.  However, you cannot use charcoal grills inside the park.   Reservation And Fees At Lewis Mountain Campground  A standard, non-electric campsite at Lewis Mountain Campground will cost you $30. Further, you don’t need to reserve your campsite in advance as all sites are available on a first-come and first-served basis.   Big Meadows Campground  https://www.instagram.com/p/B4a4lAAFP52/ The 51.2-mile Big Meadows Campground is the busiest camping zone in the park, with 221 camping sites. Further, with sites available on a reservation basis, this campground offers access to the following park areas.  Big Meadows  Byrd Visitor Center, and  Dark Hollow Falls  Moreover, every campsite for a tent or RV here comes with a picnic table and fire ring.   Amenities Available  Cell Phone Network No Internet Connectivity No Recycling/Trash Collection Yes, on a seasonal basis Camp Store Seasonal availability  Food Storage Lockers  Yes Ice for Sale Yes Staff on Site Available Seasonally  Amphitheater Available Seasonally  Firewood for Sale Firewood is available. However, you must strictly adhere to the park's fire and stove policy. *** Laundry Available Seasonally  Dump Station Available Seasonally  Potable Water Seasonal Availability  Shower Type Seasonal Availability (coin-operated)  *** The fire safety policies at Big Meadows Campground include using USDA-certified firewood. Further, you can use deadwood and branches in the fire grates.   However, even if you can carry backpacking and camping stoves, using charcoal grills is prohibited.   Further, the Big Meadows Campground has standard and group camping sites. Moreover, the group camping site will cost you $75, and the fee for the standard site is $30.   Mathews Arm Campground  If you enter the Shenandoah National Park from Front Royal, you will first encounter the Mathews Arm Campground. Further, this 22.1 campground is home to 165 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, tents, and RVs.   However, this camping site has no camp store or shower facility. It also does not offer wood and ice for sale. So, you will have to walk for 2 miles to Elkwallow Wayside to collect the essentials.   Amenities Available  Cell Phone Network No Internet Connectivity No Recycling/Trash Collection Yes, on a seasonal basis Camp Store No Food Storage Lockers  Yes Ice for Sale No Staff on Site Available Seasonally  Amphitheater Available Seasonally  Firewood for Sale No Laundry No Dump Station Available Seasonally  Potable Water Seasonal Availability  Shower Type No  Reservation And Fees At Mathews Arm Campground   The Mathews Arm Campground  combines reserved and first-come, first-served based sites. Further, it has standard and group campsites.   Moreover,  standard and group campsite fees are $30 and $75, respectively.   Explore More Lodging Options At Shenandoah National Park  If you don’t want to compromise on comfort, you can explore the three Shenandoah National Park lodging options for an overnight stay.   Further, these lodges are located in the prime locations of the park, and offer the best view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Moreover, they have pet-friendly accommodation. So, if you are traveling with your canine or feline friends, you can enjoy stress-free time.   Skyland Resort  https://www.instagram.com/p/CdqQODytuCm/?img_index=1 Along the Skyline Drive, the Skyland Resort offers the most comfortable accommodation options at Skyland Resort.   Further, you can enjoy the most beautiful view of the park from the Skyland Resort. Also, this resort gives you easy access to many popular hiking trails in the park.   Lewis Mountain Cabins  Are you in for some rugged experience at Shenandoah National Park with the comfort factor intact? So, why don’t you get a place at Lewis Mountain Cabins?  Big Meadows Lodge  https://www.instagram.com/p/C-DcPBOADEx/ Built with stones from the Massanutten Mountains, the Big Meadows Lodge has a natural charm and warmth. Further, residents love spending evenings here watching the sunrise and sharing their park experience.  Exploring The Unique Geology Of Shenandoah National Park     https://www.instagram.com/p/CSwssncAg6D/ The geology of Shenandoah National Park tells ancient stories that are constantly evolving. Further, you will find many types of rocks that have formed the  park’s unique geology. So, let’s have a brief understanding of these rocks.   Basement Rocks  The basement rocks of Shenandoah National Park are older than Appalachians. Further, these rocks are the foundations of the Shenandoah Blue Ridge Mountains. These rocks are also responsible for the dramatic topography of Hogback Mountain, Old Rag Mountain, and Marys Rock.   Moreover, these rocks take you back billions of years.   Greenstone Lava Flows   Have you seen the  Hawksbill and Stony Man cliffs in Shenandoah National Park? These all are formed of greenstone lava flows at least 570 million years old.   Further, these lava flows form a staircase-like topography, and you will also find flat benches here and there. Moreover, the major waterfalls in the park cut through the greenstone lava flows and plunge into canyons.   Chilhowee Metasedimentary Rocks  These rocks come from the shores of an ocean older than the Atlantic. Further, these rocks form the park’s steep slopes and rugged terrain. Moreover, you will find these rocks in the Southern District of the park.   Further, they have transformed under pressure and have formed cliffs like the Calvary Rocks, Rocky Mountain, and Blackrock South. In addition, these rocks have formed many boulder fields.   Shenandoah National Park At A Glance  Location: Virginia, United States  Area: Around 198,000 Acres  Highest Point: Hawksbill Mountain (1,234 Meters)  Visitor Centers: Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, Harry F. Byrd, Sr. Visitor Center, and Mobile Visitor Center  Hiking Trails: 500 Miles  Moreover, Shenandoah National Park is home to more than 50 mammal and 190 bird species with amphibians, reptiles, fish, and insects. Further, this park has more than 12 waterfalls.   So, camping in the park will be a truly amazing experience. However, plan a trip to the park in the spring or fall to have the best experience of the wildlife flora and fauna.  However, the park has multiple entrance gates, and the route directions could be clearer. So, get a detailed idea from the park authority about the entrance gate and route based on your location.    Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Sibashree Nov 17, 2025

Spotting the burrows of the black petrels at Glenfern Sanctuary and the hillside was like magic! The burrows had eggs in a cream shade with tan freckles. They almost looked like the eggs of a hen, though slightly larger. Also, some chicks were chirping their hearts out inside the burrows. They looked like those squishy dog toys. Now, spotting birds is one of the most fulfilling activities when you are camping on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. Furthermore, if days were about hiking and spotting the birds, the nights were about indulging in the surreal beauty of the celestial bodies at this designated Dark Sky Sanctuary. Moreover, camping in Great Barrier Island is a true off-grid and remote experience. No Streetlight!  No Public Rubbish Bins!  And, No Powered Camping Sites!  It’s just you, the camping tent, and the rugged beauty of New Zealand’s Hauraki Gulf. Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the Great Barrier Island camping tips. Here, you will learn about the must-book DOC sites, the non-negotiable biosecurity rules, and everything else you need to plan your adventure.  Camping In Aotea, Great Barrier Island: Setting The Right Mindset For Biosecurity And Sustainability View this post on Instagram A post shared by Department of Conservation (@docgovtnz) Aotea isn't a place that just hands you its beauty. It's a place that makes you earn it. It's a true adventure that rewards you for being self-sufficient.  It's the thrill of waking up to the raucous call of a Kākā parrot, not an alarm clock. It's the magic of watching the Milky Way rise over the dunes at Medlands Beach, and the peace of having a rugged, white-sand cove all to yourself.  Also, it is one of the rare islands that serve as sanctuaries, and with 60% of its area protected by the Department of Conservation, Great Barrier Island demands the utmost care for biosecurity and the adoption of sustainable practices. So, before you want to explore the best camping spots on Great Barrier Island New Zealand, you have to build your mindset. This is your invitation to join a small community of travellers who value wild, authentic, and responsible adventure.  1. Offering The True Off-Grid Experience  The campsites of the Great Barrier Island are exactly what the island is. They are not powered, and they have basic amenities. Furthermore, open fire is not allowed in these campsites. So, you will have to bring fuel-powered or gas cookers. Furthemore, the Department of Conservation camping sites have only a specific number of tents. So, you need to make the booking well in advance. Contact the Department of Conservation (DoC) at 0800 275 362. 2. The Golden Rule: "Pack In, Pack Out”  Zero waste and recycling are important for the sustainability and environmentally friendly practices of the Great Barrier Island. However, the island does not have public rubbish bins. So, whatever you carry to the island, you will have to take it back. You must use the official Orange Council bags with stickers for trash disposal. 3. Biosecurity Is Most Important  Protecting the Kauri trees from the infamous “Kauri Dieback disease” and the island's endemic animals requires a high level of biosecurity. So, when you leave for the Great Barrier Island from Auckland, you will have to check for ants and rats. Also, when you leave Great Barrier Island, check the tents and packs for skinks. In addition, the Phytophthora Agathidicida attack on the kauri trees has been a serious concern. Stopping the soil movement is crucial to stopping the attack of this dieback disease. Soil movement can happen through pigs, footwear, and vehicles. Therefore, the Department of Conservation (DoC) cleaning stations play an important role in cleaning and removing soil from your gear and footwear before entering a kauri forest on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. In addition, you have to stick to the marked routes when hiking through the best Great Barrier Island hiking trails. 4. How To Book The Camping Sites: DOC Vs. Private  If you are camping in any of the DoC sites, you have to make the booking online well in advance. Private camping sites can be booked directly. Here is the step-by-step guide for booking a DoC Campsite on the Great Barrier Island. First, visit the Department of Conservation site for the particular campsite. For example, let’s talk about the Akapoua Bay Campsite. On the dedicated Akapoua Bay Campsite page, you will get to know about the campsite and the fees. The fees for the Akapoua Bay Campsite are $18 per night for adults, $9 per night for children ages 5 to 17, and $0 per night for infants ages 0 to 4. In addition, you can book a campsite pass from the Department of Conservation of New Zealand. It will give you access to all the bookable and non-bookable campsites in the country. If you need any assistance in booking the campsite pass, you can avail of that at a service tax of $10. For adults, the camping pass will cost $295.00 (365 nights), and for children between 5 and 17 years, the pass will cost $147.50. Moreover, for children below 5 years, the camping pass is free. If you need any assistance regarding the booking of the 1-year campsite pass or a pass for any specific site, you can contact Whakatū/Nelson Visitor Centre at +64 3 546 9339 or email them at nelsonvc@doc.govt.nz. The Kauaeranga Visitor Centre (+64 7 867 9080/kauaerangavc@doc.govt.nz) also offers the same assistance. What Are The Best Camping Spots On Great Barrier Island New Zealand?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Department of Conservation (@docgovtnz) Digital detox has been a trending thing these days, and if you want to truly experience that and shut all the noise in your head, the camping spots on the Great Barrier Island will be the best for you. Further, the real magic of camping on Aotea starts after sunset. You haven't lived until you've watched the Milky Way rise over your tent from the dunes at Medlands. However, along with the Medlands Beach, there are 5 other DoC campsites in the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. Here are the details. 1. Akapoua Bay Campsite  The sheltered waters of Port FitzRoy have a beautiful camping ground, which is like a gateway to the many walking tracks of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. From waking up with a 60-second dash of a cold shower to exploring the paths graced by the pohutukawa trees, the Akapoua Bay Campsite will offer you a peaceful and off-the-grid experience. The maximum number of campers on this site can be 75. Moreover, the camp is hosted from Christmas to the end of January. 2. Harataonga Campsite  This campground is very close to Harataonga Beach. So, it is an ideal camping site for swimmers and snorkeling enthusiasts. It can accommodate 120 campers, and this campsite is surrounded by bush and farmland. and camping takes place between Christmas and mid-February. Harataonga is for the romantic escape. 3. Awana Beach Campsite  The Awana Beach Campsite is a surfer’s dream. It has beautiful dunes and farmlands around. It can accommodate 120 campers, and the campground remains open from Christmas to the end of January. The only problem with this camping site is mosquitoes. So, you have to carry mosquito repellents. 4. Medlands Beach Campsite  The sound of the waves at Medlands. This is the music you will listen to when you go to sleep or wake up at the Medlands Beach Campsite. Medlands is like an all-rounder. It is ideal for families and surfers alike. The campsite remains open from Christmas to mid-February, and it can accommodate 120 campers. 5. The Green Campsite  You can boat in or walk in the Green Campsite, which remains open from 1st December to the end of February. With a capacity of accommodating only 30 campers, this campsite has a rich history associated with whaling, kauri logging, and timber milling. The waters of the Whangaparapara Harbour make it an idyllic retreat, and it is also the base of the Aotea Track. 6. Whangapoua Campsite  The Whangapoua Campsite is a surfer’s paradise, and it is located on the edge of the Whangapoua estuary. It is also a favorite camping site for fishing. With an accommodation capacity of 150 people, this campsite remains open from Christmas to the end of February. However, the biggest highlight of this camping site is the views of Rakitu Island and Mount Hirakimata. A Comparison Summary Table Of The DoC Camping Sites On The Great Barrier Island, New Zealand  DoC Campsite Access Landscape Facilities Activities Dog Access Fees Akapoua Bay Campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Boat Launching, Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Boating, Fishing, Walking, and Tramping No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Harataonga Beach Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Swimming, Snorkeling, Fishing No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Awana Beach Campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Kayaking and Canoeing No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Medlands Beach Campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Boat Launching, Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Fishing, Surfing, Swimming No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free The Green Campsite Boat, Foot Coastal Cooking Shelter, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and WomenHiking, Boating No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Whangapoua campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and WomenFishing, Surfing No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free  Insider Tips For Camping At DoC Campsites On The Great Barrier Island If you are camping in a caravan or campervan, remember that the gravel roads leading to the camping sites, especially the Harataonga Campsite, are steep and winding. Also, the sites are off-the-grid. Furthermore, the campervans are not usually allowed on the beaches. The Best Private & Unique Camping Options On The Great Barrier Island View this post on Instagram A post shared by Department of Conservation (@docgovtnz) 1. Great Barrier Island Campground  The Great Barrier Island Campground, spanning over an area of 12 square acres, is an ideal camping ground for access to different beach activities. The camping site is located at a distance of just 200 meters from the beach. The camping fee at the Great Barrier Island Campground is $10 per person per night. You can contact them at 021 298 8905 for booking. 2. Mickeys Place  The O'Shea Family farm in Awana houses the Mickey's Place camping ground. It is a family-friendly camping site with the following facilities. A Communal Cooking Area  Flush Toilets  Showers  Patrick, Sean, and Mickey are the hosts of this campsite, and you can contact them at 09 4290 140. 3. Stray Possum  Stary Possum in Tryphena is an ideal camping site for backpackers. If you are camping here, you will have access to the kitchen, toilets, and showers of the adjacent Stray Possum Lodge. This camping site has 14 tents, and you can call 09 4290 109 for booking details. 21 Essential Great Barrier Island Camping Tips  I promised you tips, and here they are. Do not go to Great Barrier Island without reading this checklist.  • Packing And Food  1. Bringing a Gas Cooker  Open fires are banned in the Camping sites of the Great Barrier Island. So, you will have to bring a gas burner for preparing your food. 2. Packing Your Food  Groceries are not available everywhere, and they are even very expensive. So, it is better to collect and pack the groceries you will need before leaving Auckland. 3. Bringing a Good Chilly Bin  You will need this insulated chest for storing warm and cold food items. 4. Bringing a Red-Light Torch  The island is a Dark Sky Sanctuary. A red torch lets you stargaze without ruining your night vision.  5. Bringing Cash  EFTPOS (debit) is unreliable, and many camping sites only accept cash. 6. Packing Warm Clothes  The weather can suddenly become cold, even on summer days. So, you will have to pack layered clothes.  7. Carrying Mosquito and Insect Repellent  Sandflies and mosquitoes are notorious on Great Barrier Island. So, you will have to carry an insect repellent.  • On-Site & Facilities  8. Cold Showers  Most shower stations on the Great Barrier Island are cold water shower stations. This is great as the dash of cold water in the morning, literally works as the eye opener. 9. Long-Drop Toilets  The long-drop toilets are basic and waterless. Using these pit toilets can be challenging for some campers. 10. Drinking Water  The tap water available at these sites is not ideal for drinking unless it is purified or boiled. 11. Pet-Friendly  The DoC camping grounds are not accessible to dogs. This is crucial for the protection of wildlife, the safety of the pets, and soil movement, causing the resurrection of pets and parasites affecting the local flora and fauna. 12. Booking  The slots for camping sites such as Medlands, Akapoua get sold more than 6 months in advance for the Christmas and New Year periods. So, it is indeed a year-long planning. 13. Alcohol Rules  The consumption of alcohol can be banned in various camping sites, especially during the peak seasons. So, check with the camping site authority. • Transport & Logistics  14. Having a Vehicle  Having a vehicle is a must for moving around the rugged and large Great Barrier Island. You cannot walk between the sites.  15. Renting a 4WD (or 4WD-Capable)  The roads to various campsites are challenging. The road to Harataonga, especially, is very difficult. So, you will have to rent a 4WD-capable vehicle. 16. The Motorhome/Campervan Reality  The gravel roads are narrow, steep, and winding, and if you are planning to camp in a large RV, you will definitely struggle. 17. The Dump Station Nightmare  There is only one dump station in Claris, and it is only for black water or toilet waste. You will have to carry your grey water or sink with you. 18. Freedom Camping  Freedom camping on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a fascinating idea. However, the reality is quite different. It is heavily restricted, and sticking to the DoC sites is the best option.  • Safety & Etiquette  19. Using a Paper Map  Mobile network and GPS will not function in various parts of the Great Barrier Island. So, you will have to carry a paper map. 20. Tell Someone Your Plans  If you are hiking on the Great Barrier Island, you have to keep someone informed. The wilderness and remote locations of the hiking trails can throw many challenges, despite having an easy to moderately difficult level.  21. Being a Good Neighbour  You must respect the quiet, off-grid, and nature-first vibe of the Great Barrier Island. So, you have to keep the noise level down. How To Reach The Aotea Great Barrier Island With Your Camping Gear? For campers, especially the ones with campervans, traveling by the ferry from SeaLink is the best option. It is the only mode of transportation in which passengers and cars are both transported. It is a 4.5-hour picturesque journey from Auckland. Your Great Barrier Island Camping Adventure Is Calling Camping on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is the right mix of adventure, soaking in nature, and cherishing the off-the-grid living of the island. However, it’s not going to be easy with the amenities at the campsites being basic, and even the gravel roads posing challenges for the big RVs and campervans. Also, you will have to take care of biosecurity and all the sustainability guidelines to ensure that the island, a sanctuary of wildlife, does not get impacted negatively. Conservation as a pristine sanctuary is the reason why camping in the Great Barrier Island allowed us to see a billion more stars and birds than I have ever seen in my life.

BY  Sibashree Feb 4, 2026

The charm of Edinburgh grows on you. I know that I am not the only one who felt like moving to the Scottish Capital after the first visit.   So, even though Edinburgh happened to me many moons ago, I can vividly remember its moody weather and the beautiful architecture. More than anything, the cityscape stays with me.   Also, if you are a “bucket-list” kind of traveler, the city harbors endless attractions. And this guide here is about the things to do in Edinburgh.   What Are The Things To Do In Edinburgh?   From visiting the beautiful Dean Village to exploring the majestic Edinburgh Castle, you cannot match the experience of the Scottish capital with anywhere else.   These are my favorite things to do in Edinburgh.  1. Visiting The Dean Village   Dean Village reminded me of the village of Belle from Beauty and the Beast. I took a short walk from Stockbridge to reach Dean Village.   Furthermore, I just grabbed my coffee and roamed aimlessly. This is how you discover the best wonders and keep your plan spontaneous.   2. Strolling Down The Circus Lane   I discovered the Circus Lane while strolling along the Dean Village and beyond. The Circus Lane is just five minutes away from Dean Village.   Every minute in the street is Instagrammable.  3. Living The Dark Academia Moment At New College  The dark academia fan in me was very happy visiting the New College. I stepped into the courtyard and saw a ballroom scene becoming alive before my eyes.   4. Exploring The Edinburgh Castle  On top of Castle Rock, the castle is the crown jewel in the history of Edinburgh. Also, from the castle, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surroundings.  5. Wandering Along The Royal Mile   The Royal Mile is also one of the historical palaces to see in Edinburgh. It is a thoroughfare, and it is a link between the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle.   You will find many eateries, shops, and landmarks here.   6. Hiking To The Top Of Arthur’s Seat  This is a hike to reach the top of an ancient volcano. The hike is rewarding, and after reaching the top, I loved the vistas of the entire city.   It’s a must if you are in Edinburgh.  7. Enjoying The View Of The Edinburgh Castle From Vennel Viewpoint  You can enjoy a different perspective of the Edinburgh Castle from the Vennel Viewpoint. The surroundings are beautiful in all seasons.   However, it is something different in autumn.   8. Exploring The Harry Potter Shops On Victoria Street   Now, everyone knows that Victoria Street is the inspiration behind the famous Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.   No wonder that the street today has many Harry Potter-themed shops. So, it was a mix of walking down the historical moments and a Potterhead moment.   9. Living The Willy Wonka Moment At The Chocolatarium  The Chocolatarium, close to the Royal Mile, offers a 90-minute guided tour called The Tour of Chocolate.   You will get to taste more than 40 flavors of chocolates here, and you can make your own chocolate bar and take it home.   Furthermore, during the weekends, The Chocolatarium also offers Chocolate and Wine and Chocolate and Whiskey pairings.   10. Enjoying Views From The Top Of Camera Obscura  Camera Obscura has various exhibits and displays. However, to find Camera Obscura, you will have to reach the top of the building.   This old telescope from 1835 is the oldest CCTV in the city. Through this, you can enjoy a view of the city down to the waterfront as it was back then.  11. Visiting The Grave Of Tom Riddle At Greyfriars Kirkyard  Near the Royal Mile, Greyfriars Kirkyard is an iconic place to visit in Edinburgh. Here, you will find the graveyard of McGonagall and Tom Riddle.   12. Taking A Stroll Up To Calton Hill  Calton Hill is home to various iconic moments of Edinburgh. Furthermore, I loved it more for its sunrise and sunset views.   13. Visiting The Museums Of Edinburgh   Edinburgh has some of the most prominent and comprehensive museums in the United Kingdom.   These are the museums you can explore in Edinburgh.   National Museum Of Scotland   You will get to know about Scottish history, technology, science, world cultures, and the natural world at the National Museum of Scotland.   The important exhibits here are Dolly the Sheep, which was the first cloned mammal, the Lewis Chessmen, and the dramatic architecture of the Grand Gallery.   You need at least 3 hours to explore this museum.   The Museum Of Edinburgh  It is home to the National Covenant, one of the most important documents in the history of Scotland.   Furthermore, you will find many historic artifacts related to the city in the museum.   Writers’ Museum  This is again a dream spot for dark academia fans. The unique setup and museum celebrate the likes of Robert Louis Stevenson, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Burns.   Along with rare books, you will also find personal objects used by the prominent literary figures and paintings.   Moreover, the museum offers free entry.   Scottish National Portrait Gallery  Visiting the iconic Scottish National Portrait Gallery is one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh.   Here, you will enjoy a journey through the history of Edinburgh with the photographs, sculptures, paintings, and movies.  Surgeons’ Hall Museums  It is one of the most prominent and fast surgical museums in the world. Here, you will get to know about the evolution of surgery and medicine.   You will also come across the surgical instruments from the 19th century and many preserved specimens. 14. Buying Secondhand Books At Armchair Books  It is a paradise for book lovers. You will get books from the 1800s and different centuries at this shop.   So, you don’t just buy books from here; you carry a little moment of history home.   15. A Fun Johnnie Walker Whiskey Tour  1820 Rooftop Bar at Johnnie Walker is a great place to enjoy your drink and have the views of Edinburgh Castle.   Furthermore, I loved the Johnnie Walker tour, learning about the history of this iconic drink.   Along with the 1820 Rooftop Bar, these are the bars you can explore in Edinburgh.  Other Bars In Edinburgh Why Famous Bramble Bar & Lounge One of the best bars in the UK Serves amazing, crafted drinks Hey Palu Serves the best classic Negronis Chaophraya Edinburgh Great Food Amazing views of Edinburgh Castle from the rooftop The Alchemist Theatrical Cocktails Wee Vault Amazing craft beers and meads The Royal Oak A Folk Music Pub Nauticus Bar Serves local spirits   Where To Eat In Edinburgh?   The Witchery,  The Pantry, and Taco Libre are my favorite spots to eat in Edinburgh.   The Witchery has two dining halls, the Witchery itself and the Secret Garden, which is the main one. Despite being a celebrated place, the food here is quite reasonable. It’s around £30 for two people.   We chose The Pantry as your brunch stop. It is close to the Circus Lane and Dean Village. I loved the coffee there.   Moreover, at the end of Princes Street, Taco Libre is a casual place to appease your sudden hunger pangs. The tacos are great, but try the Margaritas once!   Where To Stay In Edinburgh?   The House of Gods and the Royal Mile at The Witchery are some of the most interesting places to stay in Edinburgh.   The House of Gods offers a wild experience. On the other hand, the Royal Mile at The Witchery has the quintessential Gothic romance vibe. In the heart of the historic town of Edinburgh, the experience here feels out of this world.   What Is The Best Time To Visit Edinburgh?   Autumn is the best time to visit Edinburgh. You can feel the dark academia vibe of the city the best during the fall months.   Furthermore, the summertime also offers a fairy tale experience with the Sun going down after 10 PM.  Read Also: What Are The Things To Do In Santa Barbara? Know the Things You Cannot Miss What Are The Unique Things To Do In Thailand, Phuket? The Ultimate Guide What Are The Things To Do In Oahu For Free? A Guide For Budget Travelers