5 Day Scotland Itinerary in Edinburgh, The Highlands & Isle of Skye
- Alexandra Spacavento
- Aug 10, 2024
- 20 min read
Updated: Aug 26, 2024
Dear Fellow Wanderers,
Listen closely to the whispers of the ancients echo through misty mountains and verdant glens, where Scotland's timeless magic weaves its spell. This is a land where the familiar embraces the mysterious, where every stone and stream seems to pulse with untold secrets. From the moment you set foot on Scottish soil, you're enveloped in a world that feels at once cozy and enigmatic. It's a place where the veil between past and present thins, where legends come alive, and where you might find yourself wishing for an ancestral connection to this incredible land. For Outlander enthusiasts, prepare to have your wildest dreams surpassed. Scotland doesn't just live up to the hype—it transcends it. In a mere five days, this captivating country stole our hearts, leaving us yearning for more.
Day 1: Exploring Edinburgh
Where to stay in Edinburgh:
Hotel du Vin proved to be the perfect home base for our Edinburgh adventure. Nestled in the historic Old Town, just a short walk from the vibrant Grassmarket area, this charming establishment offered an ideal blend of comfort and convenience. When you only have one day to explore the city, location is key!
Pro tip: Always pack your day 1 outfit in your carry- on or easily accessible in your suitcase. You will rarely be able to check into your room before 3:00 pm... so be ready to drop your bags, freshen up in the lobby bathroom, and hit the road!
A note to the reader: If you're able to extend this trip, I highly recommend staying more than one day in Edinburgh. It is such an enchanting city with so much to do despite its size. In fact, its size allows you to truly immerse yourself in the winding cobblestone streets and stunning architecture. This is a city that is fun to get lost in- a place full of rich history and hidden gems.
How to get around:
Navigating Edinburgh is a breeze, with walking being the preferred method for both locals and visitors alike. On clear, sunny days like the one we enjoyed, exploring the city on foot is not only feasible but highly rewarding. The compact nature of Edinburgh's layout means most attractions are within comfortable walking distance, allowing you to soak in the city's charm at your own pace. If you have the time, I recommend a morning run through the city to get a lay of the land! However, if the infamous Scottish weather turns rainy or too chilly for extended outdoor jaunts, Edinburgh has an excellent public transportation system. The city's adorable trams and buses connect all the little neighborhoods, making it easy to hop on and off at your leisure. There's no need to buy tickets in advance or wrestle with complex fare systems. Simply tap your phone or contactless card when you board, and you're good to go.
What to see:
While we focused on the must-see highlights, the true magic of Edinburgh revealed itself in the unplanned moments between our scheduled stops. We found ourselves drawn into unassuming pubs, where local brews and whisky drams offered a taste of authentic Scottish hospitality. In one such hidden gem, we were treated to an impromptu bagpipe performance – two locals casually playing in the back, filling the air with haunting melodies. These unexpected encounters, more than any landmark, captured the spirit of Edinburgh for us. I put together a walking tour map of the must- see sites below. You make choose to organize them differently but we managed to see most of the city this way!
Stockbridge: We started our day in Stockbridge because we have friends who live in Edinburgh and wanted to spend the day with them. From Hotel Du Vin we took the bus from the Forrest Road stop all the way to the Fettes Row Stop (~20 min ride). You can either take the 23 or 27 line to get there. We loved this area for its vibrance and village-like atmosphere. The streets were studded with cute little shops and cafes. Here we stopped for lunch at The Scran & Scallie, a gastropub co-owned by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kitchin. The food was incredible!
Water of Leith: Edinburgh's main waterway, offers a stunning view as it divides the city in two.
Princes Street Gardens: These beautiful gardens separate the New Town from the Old Town. Here, you'll find the imposing Scott Monument, a Victorian Gothic structure dedicated to Sir Walter Scott.
Cockburn Street: Stroll up this winding street connecting you to the Royal Mile
Royal Mile: This historic street is the backbone of the Old Town. As you walk, keep an ear out for bagpipers performing! Along the Royal Mile you will see Mary King's Close (take a detour to explore this underground street, frozen in time since the 17th century) and St. Giles' Cathedral.
Victoria Street: Often cited as the inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter, this curved street is one of Edinburgh's most picturesque. Don't miss the Victoria Street Terrace Overlook for a stunning view.
Edinburgh Castle: The iconic castle is perched atop an extinct volcano, offering panoramic views of the city. On the walk up to the castle you will often find street performers. We stopped for quite a bit to watch a magic act!
Grassmarket: From the castle headed toward the Grassmarket Square which was once a historic market place, now home to charming shops and restaurants. Here we stopped at a local pub for a couple beers and unexpected bagpiping! Our hotel was just a short distance from the pub where we stopped for drinks
Other Sites to Consider in Edinburgh :
Museum of Edinburgh: Dive deeper into the city's rich history through fascinating artifacts and interactive exhibits.
The Writer's Museum: Celebrate Scotland's literary giants - Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson - in a charming 17th-century house.
Holyrood Abbey: Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins adjacent to the Queen's official Edinburgh residence, steeped in royal history.
Hike Arthur's Seat: For outdoor enthusiasts, hike this ancient volcano for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond.
St. Andrew's Links: Take a day trip to the historic home of golf, walking in the footsteps of legends on the Old Course.
Festival Theater: Immerse yourself in Edinburgh's vibrant arts scene with a show at this stunning venue, showcasing everything from opera to contemporary performances.
Afternoon tea at Gleneagles Townhouse: Indulge in a quintessentially British experience with a luxurious afternoon tea at this newly opened urban outpost of the famous Gleneagles Hotel.
Recommended Tours/Tickets:
The Royal Military Tattoo: for those traveling in August, this is a must-see event!
Harry Potter Trail Walking Tour for Harry Potter enthusiasts!
Scot Beer Tour for those looking to learn about Scotland's beer brewing heritage.
Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour for those who are interested in the royal histories of Edinburgh.
Where to eat:
The Scran & Scallie: (Stockbridge) A gastropub co-owned by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kitchin, offering delicious Scottish comfort food in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for a hearty lunch or casual dinner.
The Witchery: (Old Town) An Edinburgh institution, known more for its ambiance than its cuisine. We dined in the original dining room, which was gorgeously Gothic. However, if you can, book the "Secret Garden Dining Room" for an even more whimsical setting.
The Kitchin: (Leith) Another Tom Kitchin establishment, this Michelin-starred restaurant showcases the best of Scottish cuisine with a French twist.
Timberyard: (Old Town) Housed in a converted warehouse, Timberyard offers a unique dining experience with its focus on foraged and locally-sourced ingredients. The tasting menu is a culinary journey through Scotland's finest produce.
The Bon Vivant: (New Town) A charming bistro in the New Town, known for its ever-changing menu and excellent cocktails. It's a great spot for a more casual yet sophisticated dining experience.
Where to drink:
No urban adventure is complete without uncovering a hidden gem, and Edinburgh's eclectic nightlife scene doesn't disappoint. For cocktail enthusiasts and those who relish a touch of mystery, the city's speakeasies offer an irresistible allure. We sought out Panda & Sons, one of Edinburgh's most celebrated speakeasies. Concealed behind the façade of a vintage barbershop, this quirky establishment serves up inventive cocktails in an atmosphere thick with 1920s nostalgia.
However, if you're in the mood for something more traditional, the city boasts some of the oldest pubs in Scotland, where you can sip a pint of local ale surrounded by centuries of history. The Sheep Heid Inn in Duddingston, dating back to 1360, or the cozy warmth of The White Hart Inn in the Grassmarket, established in 1516, offer authentic experiences that connect you directly to Edinburgh's rich past.
A Note to the Reader:
Planning a Highland road trip within a limited timeframe can be daunting, especially when unfamiliar with the area. I was concerned about wasting precious hours navigating between sights. While researching tour options, I found most were group-based with rigid itineraries, but Nick and I craved a more personalized experience.
After extensive searching, I stumbled upon a tour that covered most of my desired Highland and Isle of Skye destinations. Reaching out to the owner was a game-changer. Through multiple Zoom calls, we collaboratively crafted a bespoke itinerary, ensuring all my must-see locations were included. We even extended the tour by a day to perfectly fit our schedule. What impressed me most was the reasonable flat fee, making it an excellent option for groups looking to split costs. Our guide, Stuart, was a font of Scottish historical knowledge, peppering our drives with fascinating anecdotes and insights.
✨ Now, if you're wondering, "How do I book this tour?!" You're in the right place! Just click subscribe at the bottom of the page and send me a message through the "Get in Touch" page for details. Prefer to chart your own course? No problem! I've crafted detailed road trip maps for each day, complete with hidden gems and local secrets. To get your hands on these treasure maps simply drop me a message through the "Get in Touch" page.✨
What to pack:
Scotland's weather can be unpredictable, so layering is key. Here's a comprehensive list based on our late April trip, which saw mostly sunny days but with the ever-present possibility of rain and chill:
Outerwear:
Stylish trench coat for milder days
Waterproof rain jacket for layering on harsher days
Winter coat or thermal layer for windy, rainy moments
Footwear:
Waterproof boots with good traction (I recommend Sorel's for both comfort and style)
Comfortable sneakers for mild walks and city exploration
Optional: Hiking boots if you plan on more serious treks
Clothing:
Variety of cute sweaters (Scotland is the perfect backdrop for cozy knitwear!)
Lightweight athletic sweater for layering
Your favorite leggings (I never travel without my Athleta Elation Ultra High RiseLeggings)
Jeans or comfortable pants
Moisture-wicking base layers
Warm socks (consider wool for better insulation)
Accessories:
Baseball cap or waterproof hat
Scarf and gloves
Sunglasses (the Scottish sun can be bright when it appears!)
Small, packable umbrella
Daypack for carrying essentials during excursions
Other Essentials:
Universal power adapter (don't make the mistake of bringing your European adapter like I did!)
Portable charger (not necessary if you are booking to tour... Stuart has got you covered!)
Camera (Scotland's landscapes are photo-worthy!)
Midges repellent (if traveling late spring into summer)
Our Highland adventure began with an 8:00 AM hotel pickup. Noel, the tour company owner, greeted us in the lobby, outlining our 4-day journey before introducing us to Stuart, our guide. Stuart's energy and kindness were immediately evident as he loaded our bags into the van. The day's itinerary was packed with diverse stops. Some sights we spent more time touring, others were quick walk-throughs but Stuart seemed to know the perfect amount of time for each location. Most importantly, he emphasized our freedom to adjust the schedule, making us feel incredibly comfortable and unburdened. This flexibility set the perfect tone for our Highland exploration, and we set off filled with excitement for the adventure ahead. A description of each of our stops is listed below:
Midhope Castle "Lallybroch": Explore the iconic Outlander filming location. Stuart got us there right before opening hours and because of his local connections, we were able to tour the grounds privately- as an Outlander enthusiast this was a dream!
Linlithgow Palace: Visit the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots
The Kelpies: Marvel at these 30-meter high horse-head sculptures
Stirling Castle and Wallace Monument: We spent a little more time at this site, climbing the tall tower of the Wallace Monument and immersing ourselves in its rich history. The Wallace Monument, completed in 1869, stands as a tribute to Sir William Wallace's valiant efforts during the Wars of Scottish Independence. As we ascended the tower, we were captivated by the fascinating exhibits detailing Wallace's life and legacy, and the panoramic views from the top were simply breathtaking.
Doune Castle: A quick visit to "Castle Leoch" from Outlander and "Winterfell" from Game of Thrones
Loch Lubnaig: Enjoy some snacks and refreshments with stunning loch views
Travel to Glencoe: Journey through breathtaking Highland scenery
Photo stops at Loch Tulla and Rannoch Moor
Glen Etive: Optional 20-minute walk in this secluded glen. This glen has been home to Clan MacDonald of Glencoe since the 14th century and played a significant role in Highland clan politics and the Jacobite risings. Made famous as a filming location for James Bond's "Skyfall."
Meeting of Three Waters: Witness this picturesque confluence
Cold water wild swim in the Tears of Glencoe! For those brave souls willing to polar plunge in these Highland mountaintop pools. I was not one of those brave souls!
3 Sisters of Glencoe: Walk among these iconic mountain peaks.
Glencoe Village: Discover this historic settlement's charm
Lunch at Clachaig Inn: This is a must-make stop on your drive through Glencoe. Although they offered mostly pub food, the atmosphere was very inviting and they had a large selection of beers, ciders, and whiskeys.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Crossing: Witness the Jacobite Train's passage at 5:30 pm. Although the timetable may have changed, if you're booking with Bonnie Scotland Tours, Noel can research the crossing time and relay the information to your guide. By following a short but moderately steep path up from the parking lot, you will reach the perfect overlook to capture the viaduct crossing and hopefully the train in the background.
Loch Morar: Glimpse the UK's deepest freshwater loch.
Check into The Garrison Hotel at Fort Williams! One thing to note about this action-packed tour is that accessibility is key. There are many gorgeous places to stay in the highlands, but in order to be up and out early in the morning you will need to stay in one of the hotels located close to the city center. The Garrison Hotel was very comfortable and situated us in the heart of the city, allowing time for a post-tour stroll through town before dinner.
Pub stop at Ben Nevis- You can either sit in the dimly lit yet snug bar or if the weather permits, on the sun terrace with incredible views over Loch Linnhe. Here you will find a wide selection of local beers and single malt whiskeys.
8:00 PM Dinner at Crannog at Garrison West:
I highly recommend making a reservation well in advance for this exceptional seafood restaurant, one of the few high-quality dining options in town. Crannog at Garrison West is known for its commitment to sustainability and fresh, local ingredients.
Night Cap at Highland Cinema: This bar offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with its wood-burning stove, long tables, and old movies projected overhead. The bar specializes in locally produced drinks, featuring beers and premium gins from Scotland's West Coast. It also boasts an extensive cocktail menu, which is what drew me in. I am not much of a beer or whiskey drinker- so the prospect of a cocktail was high on my "must-find" list.
✨Interesting Highland Fact #1: Scottish heather is more than just a beautiful purple flowering plant that blankets the Highlands. This hardy shrub plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, acting as a natural insulator by trapping air in its dense growth, which helps warm the earth beneath it. This warming effect made it possible for Highland clans to comfortably camp outdoors, using heather as both bedding and shelter.
Another early start at 7:00 AM, but for good reason! We need to catch the Glenelg-Skye Ferry at 10:00 AM. While you can drive to Skye via the modern bridge, Stuart insisted this ferry ride was a must-do experience - and boy, was he spot on! I've split our journey into two parts on the itinerary map. The first section guides you to the ferry landing, while the second kicks off from the ferry drop-off point and covers the rest of our exciting day on Skye. On the map you will notice that I added a surprise roadside stop on the way to the ferry- it's worth a look trust me!
Ferry Crossing: The Glenelg- Skye ferry, is the original ferry, operating since the 1960s, linking the mainland to the Isle of Skye. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a very friendly (and furry) docking assistant who loves all the head scratches!
Fairy Pools Hike: These crystal-clear blue pools on the River Brittle have captivated visitors for generations. The pools, set against the backdrop of the Black Cuillins, offer a magical landscape for photography and light hiking. These were the kinds of sites that made you feel like every inch of Scotland was laced with magic.
Glenbrittle Campsite & Cafe for Lunch: This stop was as off the beaten path as it gets. The approach is full of vast rolling meadows with grazing sheep with a narrow road that leads to a campsite at the edge of Loch Brittle's shore. We ordered a pizza to share and a couple of pastries for the road!
Visit the Village of Carbost: This picturesque village, dating back to the early 19th century, offers a glimpse into traditional Skye life.
Tour Talisker Distillery: Founded in 1830, Talisker is the oldest working distillery on Skye. Learn about the whisky-making process and sample their renowned single malt, known for its maritime character. This was a really cool experience because I figured out what kind of whiskey I could actually tolerate.
Dunvegan Castle and Gardens: Home to the Clan MacLeod for 800 years, this is Scotland's oldest continuously inhabited castle. The castle's rich history includes tales of clan warfare, Jacobite intrigue, and the famous Fairy Flag. I highly recommend touring this castle and its grounds.
Viewpoint for a stunning picture of the castle on the loch, Stuart poured us two drams of whiskey, which Nick and I savored as we soaked in the breathtaking view.
Neist Point: This dramatic clifftop lighthouse, built in 1909, provides spectacular views of the Minch and the Outer Hebrides. A word of caution, the walk down is very steep and the walk back up can be strenuous. Make sure to have good walking shoes if you plan to visit this site.
7:00 PM: Dinner reservation at The Three Chimneys: This world-renowned restaurant, housed in a 100-year-old croft house, serves innovative Scottish cuisine using local ingredients. It has been a culinary destination on Skye since the 1980s. We decided to go all out on this one and book "The Kitchen Table" where we ate a 9-course tasting menu in the midst of the bustle of the restaurant kitchen.
9:00 PM: Check into Bosville Hotel: Nestled in Portree, Skye’s largest town, this boutique hotel provides a cozy retreat with a prime location and picturesque views of the vibrant storefronts lining the harbor. Our accommodations were exceptionally comfortable, and we especially enjoyed the charming bar area adjacent to the lobby, which features an impressive selection of wines.
✨Interesting Highland Fact #2: In Scottish culture, "Caledonia" holds a special place as a poetic and romantic name for Scotland. Interestingly, it was initially used as a somewhat derogatory slang term by Lowlanders to refer to their Highland neighbors. Today, the term continues to evoke a sense of Scotland's ancient heritage and wild beauty, often used in cultural contexts and as a nostalgic reference to the country.
Day 4: Chasing Legends and Landscapes (Itinerary Map)
Dawn broke leisurely on our second day in the Isle of Skye, granting us a rare lie-in. With a 9:00 AM pickup, we savored a slow morning, fortifying ourselves with a hearty hotel breakfast while drinking in the misty harbor views. The forecast promised a dance of chill and rain, so I armored up in layers, ready to embrace whatever Skye had in store. Ahead lay a day of mythic proportions - the enigmatic Fairy Glen and the towering Old Man of Storr awaited, their legendary silhouettes calling us into the heart of Skye's otherworldly landscapes. As we stepped out, the air tingled with anticipation of the magic and mysteries about to unfold. Our stops are listed below:
Hike Old Man of Storr: Scale this iconic rocky hill for breathtaking views of Skye's rugged landscape a hideout once used by local farmers to conceal their cattle from Viking raiders.
An Corran Beach: Make sure to get here for low tide so you can walk the beach and search for the ancient dinosaur footprints. There are said to be 15 of these footprints embedded in the sandstone, we found about 9!
Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls: Marvel at the 90m sea cliffs resembling a pleated kilt. We spent some time here, in awe of the views and the sheep that lazily gazed the mountainside.
The Quiraing: Explore this otherworldly landslip, famous for its dramatic rock formations. At the top of this site, you will have a 360-degree view of the landscape stretched out in front of you. The road up is a bit windy so make sure to take motion sickness medicine if you need that sort of thing.
Isle of Skye Brewing Co. Overlooking the stunning Uig Bay, this microbrewery has become an integral part of Skye's local culture and economy, producing a range of ales that capture the essence of the island. Their brewing process utilizes the pure, soft water from the Cuillin mountains, giving their beers a unique character that reflects the rugged beauty of their surroundings.
Fairy Glen: This is a mystical landscape on the Isle of Skye, where conical hills and stone circles create an otherworldly atmosphere. As you wander through this enchanting terrain, you'll feel as if you've stepped into a fairy tale.
✨Interesting Highland Fact # 3: Local lore suggests that if you take three steps backward at some point during your walk through the Fairy Glen and make a wish - it will come true!
Lunch at The Uig Hotel: The restaurant is quaint and the food is very good. We were seated right at the window with a waterfront view where we enjoyed hearty sandwiches, soup and a bowl of mussels to share.
Museum of Island Life: Step back in time to experience 18th-century Skye in preserved thatched cottages. Each cottage was its own exhibit which highlights Scotland's Island life almost 200 years ago. It was truly incredible to tour this totally immersive museum. I also recommend checking out the gift shop, there are beautiful wool cloths and well priced sheep pelts- we got two!
Flora MacDonald's Grave: Pay respects at the final resting place of this Jacobite heroine. Flora MacDonald played a crucial role in the aftermath of the Battle of Culloden in 1746. When Bonnie Prince Charlie was fleeing from government troops after his defeat, Flora helped him escape capture. She famously disguised the prince as her Irish maid, "Betty Burke," and assisted him in his journey from the Outer Hebrides to the Isle of Skye. Although Flora was later arrested for her involvement, her bravery and loyalty to the Jacobite cause made her a romantic figure in Scottish folklore and a symbol of Highland courage.
Visit Skyworks Gallery: This gallery is a hidden gem above The Isle of Skye Baking Company, showcasing local artists' work in a space bathed in natural light. We were captivated by the unique textures and mediums used in the pieces, ultimately purchasing an artwork that's now our favorite piece at home. The gallery also features boutique clothing, Harris tweed, and silver jewelry, making it a perfect stop to combine with a coffee and cake break downstairs.
Dinner at Cuchullin Restaurant: Just steps from our hotel, this restaurant was one of my favorites the entire trip! The seafood is incredible and the vibe is very cozy, with windows looking out into town. I suggest arriving early (maybe around 6 PM) to beat the rush, as they don't take reservations.
Live Music at Caberfeidh Bar: Our plans to bar hop in Portree went out the window when we heard music drifting from the Caberfeidh Bar. Drawn in by curiosity, we discovered a talented musician taking requests and keeping the crowd buzzing. Before we knew it, we were singing along with the locals, caught up in the lively atmosphere. It turned into one of those spontaneous nights that become the best travel memories.
✨Interesting Highland Fact # 4: The island is home to a unique breed of sheep called the Skye Tan, which is known for its ability to eat seaweed. These sheep have adapted to the coastal environment and can often be seen grazing on seaweed during low tide.
Day 5: Myths, Manes, and Monoliths (Itinerary Map )
Our final day in Scotland was nothing short of epic. As we bid farewell to the enchanting Isle of Skye and ventured back to the mainland, adventure beckoned at every turn. Our itinerary? A thrilling trifecta: searching for the elusive Loch Ness monster, attempting to crack the code of time travel à la Outlander, and coming face-to-furry-face with the majestic Highland cows. Buckle up for a day where myth, magic, and muddy hooves collide in the heart of the Scottish Highlands! Our stops are listed below:
Sligachan Bridge and Falls: Start your day with a picturesque stop at this historic bridge, surrounded by stunning mountain views and cascading waterfalls.
✨Interesting Highland Lore # 5: According to local lore, the waters of the Sligachan River possess magical properties. The legend states that if you submerge your face in the cold waters of the river for seven seconds, you'll be granted eternal beauty.
Eilean Donan Castle: Visit one of Scotland's most iconic castles, perched majestically where three lochs meet. For breathtaking viewpoints on the road from Eilean Donan Castle to Loch Ness, drop me a message on my "Get In Touch" page!
Explore Drumnadrochit Village: Walk through this charming village on the shores of Loch Ness.
Chocolates of Glenshiel: Chocolates of Glenshiel is a small, artisanal chocolate maker nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Founded in 2017 by Finlay Macdonald when he was just 16 years old, this boutique chocolatier is known for creating unique flavors inspired by the local landscape, including gin and tonic truffles and whisky-infused chocolates, all handcrafted using high-quality, ethically sourced cocoa.
Loch Ness Centre: Dive into the legend of Nessie at this immersive exhibition center. While we waited for our showing time (inside the center), Nick and I perused the gift shop and lovely cafe. We ate soup and sandwiches on the the terrace overlooking the loch. After the show, we then walked down to the Urquhart Castle ruins to explore.
Loch Ness Boat Cruise: Set sail on the mysterious waters of Loch Ness, keeping an eye out for any unusual disturbances! We took a oneway trip on the boat cruise because we had Stuart to pick us up on the other end. For those traveling without a tour, you will need to take the round trip back to the Loch Ness Center.
Urquhart Castle view from the boat: Admire the ruins of this medieval fortress from a unique vantage point on the loch. Urquhart Castle has a rich history spanning over 1,000 years, but the castle we see today largely dates from the 13th to 16th centuries. In 1692, following the Jacobite risings, the castle was intentionally destroyed to prevent it from being used as a military stronghold.
✨Interesting Highland Fact # 6: According to some local legends, Loch Ness isn't just an isolated body of water, but part of a vast underground network of caverns and tunnels. These hidden passages are said to connect Loch Ness to other lochs and even to the sea. This mythical subterranean labyrinth supposedly allows Nessie to travel secretly between different bodies of water, explaining both its occasional disappearances from Loch Ness and reported sightings in other locations.
Inverness: This city offers a charming blend of history and natural beauty. We originally didn't have Inverness on our list of stops, but because we were a little ahead of schedule we were able to fit in a brief visit. While roaming the streets, I couldn't resist purchasing some Harris Tweed bags as gifts for family, captivated by the fabric's quality and heritage. For those with more time in Scotland, consider joining a Harris Tweed handbag workshop—a unique and rewarding activity to explore this iconic Scottish craft.
Culloden Battlefield: I approached Culloden battlefield with skepticism. How could an empty field be interesting? But as our guide Stuart led us across the windswept moor, the ghosts of the past seemed to stir. His words painted vivid scenes of charging Highlanders, the thunder of muskets, and soldiers struggling through sucking mud. As we walked, the enormity of what happened here in 1746 began to sink in. Stuart's tales of disputed battle plans and political intrigue added layers to the story, making it feel immediate and real. Then we came to the clan graves. Standing before those simple stone markers, each bearing only a clan name, I felt a chill. I imagined bodies being hurriedly dumped into pits, stripped of identity save for their clan. Suddenly, Culloden wasn't just a field anymore – it was hallowed ground, whispering tales of courage, loyalty, and loss.
Clava Carins: These well-preserved 4,000-year-old stone circles and burial chambers exude an ancient, mystical aura. As you wander among the massive standing stones and perfectly constructed cairns, it's easy to feel transported to another time. Fans of the Outlander series might recognize the site as the inspiration for the fictional Craigh na Dun.
Taste of Perthshire: Our last day in the highlands ended with an up-close encounter with Scotland's iconic shaggy-haired cattle. Stuart of course had a tasty treat ready for the cows- save to say we hogged all their attention!
Edinburgh Airport (EDI): Stuart was kind enough to drop us off at the airport for our overnight flight back to New York.
As I reflect on my journey through Scotland, I'm struck by the rich tapestry of experiences this land has offered. The warmth of its people, the depth of its history, and the raw beauty of its landscapes have left an indelible mark on my heart.
Comentários