- Trip report of my three weeks in the Highlands and Islands! -- Green Dragon, 11:55:25 08/08/08 Fri
Well, I got back last month from a much-plan and long-awaited trip to Scotland. There were 6 of us, and we stayed 3 nights each in 7 places around the country. Yes, we saw the Clava Cairns, and took pictures of the cleft stone :)
My very detailed trip report with photos is here (it takes a minute to load):
http://www.greendragonartist.com/BI/BItripreportScotland2008.htm
And more photos are here (takes longer):
http://www.greendragonartist.com/Galleries/gallery_photoScotland.htm
Comments are welcomed and encouraged. I had a fantastic time!
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- The magic of Scotland -- Erin R., 23:14:56 07/07/08 Mon
I have been lurking on these boards for years. Mostly on the reading recommendation boards but I thought it was time that I would add my insight into Scotland. I have now been there 4 times and before I begin I should probably tell you that about 10 years ago I read “The Books” for the first time and if love at first sight could be bought in a book store than our lovely DG has officially cornered the market on it.
I actually received “The Books” as a gift and having Scottish heritage I thought I would give them a try. My Scottish heritage is on my mothers side and not something that I thought a whole lot about. I had always felt that something was missing in my life and after reading these books I figured out just what that was……… Scotland
As many of us do I read “The books” and then set off to beg and borrow my way to Scotland. Now 4 trips later I want to give you an insight to Scotland that you may not often see on this board. Several people tell you where to go and what to see and what not to miss but what no one is telling you is what you can expect to feel in Scotland.
I will not bore you all with a detailed list of every place we went but on this last trip me, my husband and my best friend and her husband went. My husband and my best friend are just like me, completely addicted to this country. So let me just tell you about a few of the highlights.
The Tattoo – There are few words that can describe this, we sat next to an elderly couple, spilling with Scottish pride from their pores. The elderly gentleman I assume must have been a piper because he hummed to all the pipe tunes Very few things prepare you for the massed pipe bands that parade in the esplanade with the lit torches mounted on the walls of the castle, the sound of the pipes make you heart skip a beat. I watched in awe, completely engrossed at the movements, the costumes, they were perfectly in synch with each other. At one point as the pipes play Auld Langs Syne, everyone joins hands and sings, being American we just don’t do that here but this dear old man grabbed my hand and it was as if a thousand years of Scottish pride just jolted like electricity thru my veins. To end the evening a lone piper is visible on the parapet. Tears streamed down my face as he played. I didn’t even notice the old man watching me. He turned to me and said “It seems to me lass that you have found your way back home”
So if you are planning a trip to Scotland be prepared to have a rush of raw emotions exposed. I thank Scotland for enabling me to feel again. I was able to feel like a child exploring a new fresh world. The grass is greener and the people are wonderful and the history will grab a hold of your gut and twist you in ways you never thought possible.
So in case you are wondering, after 10 years I have visited 4 times, I would love for it to be more but the exchange rate is getting worse everyday. My first trip was in 2001 and it was 1 pound = 50 cents usa. Now I was just at the airport the other day and we were at 1 pound = 44 cents so since I have a family to feed and a house to heat I doubt I will be seeing Scotland for sometime. Thru a Celtic Society I ended up meeting my best friend and travel pal, she is just as in love with Scotland as I am, I can’t tell you how wonderful it is to walk thru castles ruins with your best girlfriend pretending you are wearing long flowing gowns and that you must prepare for the large clan gathering that the Laird is having. We have spent hours at Dunnottar Castle playing the “Can you imagine game” I also met my husband, a piper and he runs an 18th century re- enactment group, yes we reenact Culloden. If you ever really want that experience of really being there, let me know. We do these events with a group out of Canada and they are amazing, On the first night the Clan Chiefs pledge there loyalty to Bonnie Prince Charlie in front of a huge fire. Everyone is dressed in Scottish 18th century attire. It is truly amazing.
PS I am super picky and I don’t usually recommend things but If anyone is looking for an amazing castle stay please check out Borthwick Castle, about 10 miles outside of Edinburgh. The staff is amazing and they take you on a tour of the castle after dinner and tell you ghost stories. It is very reasonable for a castle stay. Mary Queen of Scots stayed there. And the bed rooms are beautiful. If you like things a bit on the scary side, stay in the Red Room, that is where my husband and I stayed. And the room has a haunting history.
Also there is a little B&B in Stonehaven close to Dunnottar Castle called the Beach Gate Guest House. This is one of the best places I have ever stayed. It is right on the water and the owners are so nice….. Best breakfast I have ever had in Scotland.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Edinburgh and the Highlands -- Chris, 07:18:30 04/22/08 Tue
I read Outlander for the first time last September. We lived in squalor and ate lots of sandwiches but I finished ABOSAA by the end of November. I found the LOL site 3 weeks ago and so this travel post is nearly 5 years late, but I promised Tess, the lassie who writes with the fine Scottish lilt.
I went to Scotland in August of 2003. I have four kids and it was a lot to ask my aging parent to keep them, so we only had 8 days. My husband had a conference in Edinburgh and that left 4 days to tour the Highlands. My mother is a Cameron (of Locheil decent) so I really wanted to visit Culloden and the surrounding Highlands. We were fortunate to have friends from Ireland who had once lived in Scotland and knew the country well. They joined us in Glasgow and we headed north.
Stirling is a must for anyone interested in the Scottish struggle for independence. The castle is a jewel and probably more beautiful than Edinburgh Castle, which is such a fortress. And like Edinburgh Castle it is built high on a rock and really dominates the town. A few kilometres away is the William Wallace Monument. A friend of mine was there a few years ago and heard a tourist remark, in all seriousness, "Wasn't it nice of the Scottish people to build a statue of Mel Gibson." Shocking!!! Anyway, a few kms the other way is Bannockburn where Robert the Bruce defeated the English in 1314 giving Scotland independence and that lasted until the Act of Union in 1707. If you don't have a lot of time then at least visit Stirling Caslte. There is a magnificent statue of Robert the Bruce and you can see the Wallace Monument a few kms away.
Our base for the next two days was Fort William. The husbands insisted on a day of serious hiking so they climbed Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Great Britain. Maire and I opted for a gentler hike along Glen Nevis to Steall Meadows. Really beautiful. It is easy to see why this landscape is such a part of the Highland culture. After our hike we went to the West Highlands Museum which was full of Jacobite memorabilia including the famous hidden portrait of Bonnie Prince Charlie. The museum itself is not world class but taken together with a lovely walk in the Highlands it certainly was a worthwhile day.
The next day was Culloden. The visitor centre was excellent (and even more so now) but it was the battlefield tour that, for me, was really overwhelming. The guide was dressed and armed as a Highlander would have been in 1746. He took us slowly and methodically through every step of the battle including the markers where each clan stood. He provided detailed information about the men and weaponry on both sides of the moor. The Highlanders were cold and wet from the sleet and hungry from the long march with no food. It had been left behind in Inverness. And they were poorly led and ill-equipped. Their artillery was almost useless because most of their cannon balls were too big for their cannons. So they were left to face the British calvary, artillery and infantry with mostly swords and dirks. They never had a chance. And when you consider that two-thirds of the British army were Lowland Scots with economic, religous and cultural ties to England, Culloden in some respects was a civil war. Such a waste. When my children are all old enough to appreciate and understand the experience I will take them to Culloden.
Edinburgh. It is built on a volcanic hill and for centuries the city didn't have the technology to expand out so instead they expanded up and into what is called Old Town. Old Town is essentially the Royal Mile between its high point at Edinburgh Castle and the Palace at Holyroodhouse at the other end. I spent 5 hours at Edinburgh Castle and loved every minute of it. If Edinburgh Castle is a fortress, for defence and security, then Holyrood is a royal residence. Mary, Queen of Scots lived here and gave birth at Edinburgh Castle. The Queens Gallery is at Holyrood and they often have interesting exhibits, Faberge when I was there and Leonardo da Vinci just prior to that. I spent another entire day just walking the Royal Mile. There is lots of tourist junk, but with a good map you can avoid this and really see the historic stuff.
If you will be Edinburgh during August I would highly recommend the Edinburgh Tattoo. It was such a spectacle. It began after dark (outside) with a lone piper on a parapet of Edinburgh Castle and ended with a massed band playing Scotland the Brave. We ordered our tickets 6 months in advance and they are always sold out well before August. I know you are going in May, Tess, but dinna fash yourself. This willna diminish the tour for ye.
Also, if you have time visit the National Galleries of Scotland. It is on Prince's Street in New Town just beside the little bridge that leads to Old Town. The Monet exhibit was there when I visited.
Finally, if you like your coffee (or chai tea) first thing in the morning then I would go out on a limb and say that one of the nicest Starbucks anywhere is on Prince's Street in New Town. It runs parallel to the Royal Mile and every morning on my way to Old Town (my hotel was just off Prince's Street) I would walk up to the second floor location for my chai tea. The front is a huge picture window that frames a spectacular view of Edinburgh Castle.
I edited this list to what, for me, was the must see of Scotland. There are lots of wonderful castles, museums, glens and lochs and so much more. We bought National Trust passes that gave us entry into all of their sites. Cheaper in the long run and there was often a separate line so you didn't have to wait with the people who were just buying their tickets . And my trip was 5 years ago so there have probably been changes and even more to see. No doubt their web-site has all of this information.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Just a reminder about Celtic Journeys! --
Judie, 09:33:29 03/24/08 Mon
.
.
Our own JudyL owns and runs Celtic Journeys and has her Outlander Tour. The next one is from May 25, 2008 for 7 nights! Woo hoo!
http://www.celticjourneys.us/outlander.asp?w=1680&h=1050
Here is what Judy told me about Scotland at this time of year:
She is still taking reservations for the May 2008 tour. She still has three spots available, but she can only take reservations until the hotels want unused rooms back for inventory - so, don't dawdle, folks. :D
She also says: "Scotland is so beautiful in the Spring. I've never seen so many daffodils at one time. The whole countryside is yellow, and the gardens!"
So - if you are at all considering a trip and just need a push, here you go - GO TO SCOTLAND WITH JUDY!!!!!!!!!! :D
Judie
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Edinburgh, Inverness and Orkney -- Connie Eggers, 21:28:55 09/02/07 Sun
I visited Scotland in July (2007) and it was everything I had dreamed of. We began in Edinburgh. Besides the city highlights we took a couple of day trips from Edinburgh that were well worth the effort. The first was to Stirling. What a beautiful little town. We walked from the train station up the hill to Stirling Castle and arrived just in time for one of the regularly scheduled guided tours. It was very good and packed with lots of historical information. From the castle we caught the Hop On Hop Off bus which took us past the Wallace Monument and Stirling Bridge on our way to the battlefield at Bannockburn. Don't bother with Bannockburn if you are not a historical junkie but, oh if you are! The monument to Robert the Bruce is literally larger than life and a fertile imagination can transport you from the quiet green field back in time 700 years to a pivotal time and event in Scottish history. There is also a very good visitor center with an excellent exibit. Another highlight of the day was a very entertaining guided tour of the Old Town Gaol (jail).
Our other day trip was across the southern border to Hadrians Wall. If you travel by train buy your round trip ticket from Edinburgh all the way to Hexham, not just to Newcastle. In front of the Hexham Tourist Office you can catch the Hadrian's Wall bus #AD122. We got off at Housesteads to explore the ruins of the fort and then hiked along the Wall to Twice Brewed. It's only about 3 miles and takes you through some amazingly beautiful English countryside. Take the camera!! An unexpected bonus was how peaceful it was. We encountered other hikers occasionally but definately NOT hoardes of tourists. You can pick up the bus at Twice Brewed for the return ride to Hexham.
From Edinburgh we flew to the Orkney Islands off the north Scottish coast to visit some of Britain"s most amazing archaelogical sites. 5000 year old burial cairns (older than the pyramids!), standing stone circles and an incredibly preserved neolithic village. Not to be missed is a day hike on the island of Hoy. At the end of the trail is The Old Man of Hoy (look it up!)but you'll be oooooing and aaahhhing long before you get there. Springy peat under your feet, green pastures, incredible seacliffs and once again, just enough people to confirm that you are not lost! Pack a lunch or buy the filled rolls from the lady with the sandwich wagon at the beginning of the trail (although she may have to go down to the house for more lettuce!). Don't miss out on a bit of time down at the shoreline before returning to the ferry for the trip back to the main island. A great B&B is The Eastbank House in Kirkwall. The proprietor even played personal taxi driver for us twice and had "the lassies" do our laundry for us while we were out. If you stay there tell Malcolm I still want a job! The Orkneys felt like a secret that the rest of the world has yet to discover.
We left the Orkney Islands by way of ferry across the Pentland Firth. After deboarding at John O'Groats we caught the regularly scheduled bus for the 3 1/2 hr. ride through the Highlands to Inverness. I think we would have missed a lot had we taken the train. From the Inverness bus station it was an easy 15 min walk across the River Ness to our B&B. Chris and Val at the Mardon Guesthouse were very hospitable and attentive. We began our Highland visit with a tour of the Muir of Ord Whisky Distillery just ouside of Inverness and were back to town in time to catch up with "Davy the Ghost" in front of the tourist office for his very entertaining ghost tour. What a ham! He ends the tour at Hootnanny's, a fabulous pub with live traditional music. A good mix of tourists and locals. For a day trip to Urquhart Castle (where we saw an entire trad. scottish wedding!) and a cruise on Loch Ness we were very pleased with our choice of Jacobite Cruises. Back in Inverness, there are wonderful walking paths on both sides of the River Ness which runs through the middle of town. Don't miss the little island in the middle of the river and check out the unique benches here and there along the island path.
The highlight of our trip to Scotland was, for me, the day we spent at Culloden. The true Scottish history junkie will be itching to get out to the moor but take the time to explore inside the visitor center first. They offer a very good film on the battle and there is a well done exibition along with some impressive 18th century artifacts. I'm not embarrassed to admit that visiting Culloden Moor was a very emotional experience. It truly is hallowed ground. Quiet contemplation in front of each of the Clan stones (many with freshly laid flowers), looking to the top of the Memorial with it's inscription to the fallen Highlanders and imagining the ancient way of life that was crushed on that fateful day is sure to move all but the most hardened of hearts. I encourage all who visit to walk the battlelines. Begin at the line of red flag poles that represent the place where the Hanovarian troops were positioned. Look across the Moor to the blue line of the Highlanders. Then walk to the other side and look back across. Look at how boggy and uneven the ground is and try to imagine the physical struggle and confusion of a battle in such a setting. I was overwhelmed with a feeling of reverence and respect for the men who had died in the very field where we were standing. I do not exagerate when I say that we could very nearly feel their presence all around us.....
Scotland definately has my heart. I'm planning another trip back next year and hopfully will be buying a one way ticket in 2009!
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Scotland travel tips from a Scot loving English woman -- Alison, 15:22:48 08/25/07 Sat
I just discovered this site after visiting DG's website. Like all of you I love her books and have read them all twice. I first discovered them in a National Trust for Scotland shop in Glencoe. I lived in Scotland for 6 years when I was a kid and although I now live in the South of England I go back every year for my dose of home. I love it and definately recommend a visit. My favourite places are Loch Lomond (an old haunt from when I was little), Glencoe and the Cairngorms. My top tip for finding good places to stay would be to look at the Scottish tourist board website www.visitscotland.com its where I always look to find either B&B or self catering places. If you are in Glencoe then visit The Clachaig pub a great place to eat and to stay. If you're in the Cairngorms then there's a great B&B in the village of Kincraig called Brairiach.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Recent Trip to Scotland -- Lady Emily, 06:25:07 08/10/07 Fri
Hello,
I am new to LOL and read Outlander while on my first trip to Scotland - a great experience (both the country and reading the book while there). I was amazed how spot-on DG was in her descriptions of Scotland, having never been to Scotland before! Reading Outlander in Scotland was a most romantic way to experience the country.
We stayed in Edinburgh for 5 days and then spent a week touring the highlands. Actually, Outlander's locations give a very good itinerary. I was pleasantly surprised as I read and travelled that most of the places in the book were already on my itinerary. We took a counter clockwise tour of the country and saw many wonderful castles and other sites.
Some of the highlights for me were:
Palace of Holyrood house on the Royal Mile and Craigmillar Castle (Ruin) in Edinburgh
Scottish Crannog Center near Kenmore
Glamis Castle - great tour
Pony Trekking in Rothiemurchus National Park
The scenic drive from Inverness to Skye along Loch Ness
The Isle of Skye - all of it including the coral beach, the gardens at Dunvegan Castle, Shilasdair Yarns (a must-see if you like to knit!) and SHEEP!
The scenic drive from Skye to Glasgow along Loch Lomond.
I had wished to go to Culloden Battlefield but we ran out of time that day.
We stayed at B&B's and a few serviced apartments - a great tip for families. The apartments we the same or cheaper than B&B's/hotels and offered much more room for our family of 4. It is nice to have a kitchen and washing machine!
One thing to note when making your travel plans is that although the mileage between places isn't very far by US standards - it takes much longer to get to places due to the windy, narrow roads. Driving also gets very tiring - having to concentrate so hard to drive on the left. My poor husband was exhausted after a day of driving.
I am happy to give anyone advice on what to see/do if anyone wants to ask. I still have Scotland in my mind and will for a long time - it is a place I hope to go back to soon and explore more - especially the Shetland and Orkney Islands. --Lady Emily (formerly Emily S. After seeing the other posts I had to be a "Lady" too!)
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- New! Article on planning your first trip to the UK! -- Green Dragon, 08:01:59 04/05/07 Thu
I have been over several times, so thought I'd write an article which included practical tips, discount websites, and pieces of advice. It's geared towards Ireland and the UK, but can apply to most travel overseas. Here is the article:
http://www.greendragonartist.com/articlesEurope.htm
I also have my trip reports, including pictures, of the times I've gone over (for your reading pleasure!) I've made 5 trips, and am planning on Scotland in 2008, so look for that :)
http://www.greendragonartist.com/BItripreports.htm
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Just a reminder! -- Judie, 16:30:29 03/10/07 Sat
.
.
This board is set to moderated so if you post something or reply to something, PLEASE click on my name above and e-mail me, otherwise I probably won't see it for a while and neither will anyone else *G*. You need to inform me so I can approve the message and then everyone can read it.
Thanks!
Judie
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Glasgow... -- Gypsy Anna (Feelin Verra Scottish...), 11:59:54 02/19/07 Mon
Has anyone stayed at the Quality Central hotel on Gordon Street in Glasgow? It looks like a good place to stay for city visiting. And...I am looking for good Glasgow travel stories for reference.
Yours Truly,
Gypsy Anna
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Scotland by backpack, august 2006 -- Ashleigh, 08:44:56 01/21/07 Sun
Last August my mom and I took a journey to Scotland. We had always been interested in going there but the Outlander books took it to the next level-now we really had to go there! We are avid hikers so we made it a hiking trip too. We were meant to be doing the west highland way which goes from Milngavie(right outside of Glasgow) on up to Fort William. We flew into Glasgow where the people were not friendly and the first food we had was terrible!! Stayed a hostel and took a bus to Milngavie but had no idea where to get off. We couldn't understand anyone either! Started the hike which was very beautiful but harder than what we were expecting. We where carrying 40-50 pound backpacks also. Well the short story is the fact that halfway through our second day we were way behind and in bad shape with our knees. We decided to continue on to Rowardennan where we saw that we could take a ferry across Loch Lommond and catch a bus up to Fort William. So we gave up the hike but saw lots of beautiful sights from the bus. We came to Fort William 4 days before we had any reservations there so we camped at a lovely campground in the Glen Nevis area. So incredibly beautiful!!! We were happy that we had extra days in Fort William area because it turned out to be our favortie place. We got to do a lot more things like climbing Ben Nevis and taking the Jacobite steam train to Mallaig (highly recommended!!) We went from Fort William to Inverness and stayed in a very nice and homey hostel. Went to Culloden which was amazing but then got stuck in a rain storm waiting for a bus that took almost three hours to get there! (we no longer have any trust in buses!) We went on to Edinburgh for a few days and of course loved it. We were there for so kind of festival where there was a fireworks show from the castle at night. Incredible! From there we went back to Glasgow which was definatly a let down after all the other beautiful places we had seen. If and when I go back I will not even waste my time in Glasgow, maybe I just saw it at a bad time but overall it was less than appealing and the people just didn't have that Scottish hospitality that you always hear about. Unlike the people in Fort William who were wonderful.
If anyone is interested in a more detailed account of any of my trip I would be happy to tell you more and send pictures and recommendations. It was defiantly the trip of a lifetime, I actually missed out on a job because of it but it was worth it! Can't wait to go back!
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Going to Scotland BABY!!! -- Josephine, 12:47:12 11/29/06 Wed
OMG I'm going to Scotland for the month of July and will be studying Midevil Warfare at Stirling University!! Any things I absolutly have to see while I'm there?
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- You need to see Culloden Battlefield, it is a lovely walk, and you can contemplate the magnitude of the place. Also, Glencoe is lovely, and worth a day for walking. And I think you should maybe come and visit me in Edinburgh. I live here, and can maybe show you around the city. I'll leave my email in my name. (NT) -- AnnaV, 05:36:39 01/31/07 Wed
- Two places that stood out. The Roslyn Chapel, very mystic and historical for me, only 7 m S of Edinburgh. And Holy Island, It is just across eastern England border. BUT,be very careful (or don't) You can only get on or off when the tides are low. I dont regret getting stuck out there. It consists of Abbey Ruins, Castle, gigantic ancient kiln...Lots of historical essence n mystery. (NT) -- Gypsy Anna, 11:24:16 02/19/07 Mon
- Stirling itself is a good start -- Irene P, 10:20:04 03/10/07 Sat
- Reposted -- Judie, 19:41:34 10/20/06 Fri
Just wanted to say a big THANK YOU to JudyL -- Ruthgold18, 07:52:02 10/19/06
for the awesome Outlander Tour for 2006. I know she worked and planned very hard, and it showed - we all had a great time wherever we went, and we saw some amazing things. And the evening with Ray Owens at Culloden House Hotel, in all our glorious costumes was fun (there might be a few new pictures on Judy's Celtic Journey website soon). And although I messed up and didn't make it to the UK Hoser dinner in Edinburgh on the Saturday (I had the wrong time), I heard it was great, and we did manage to meet a few other hosers on the grounds of Edinburgh Castle. Thanks again, JudyL, I'd travel with you any day.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- My trip to Scotland August 2006 -- Alisha, 20:59:05 10/10/06 Tue
I went to Scotland in August of this year. I spent the WHOLE month there! Woohoo! I stayed with my best friend who lives in Musselburgh (just outside Edinburgh) whom I'd met online in January. I LOVE the Outlander books, Jamie is my favorite character and what'd ya know, my best friends' name is Jamie!! My very own Jamie. :-) Except, oh so terribly sad, he hates the Highlands. We drove into the Highlands and stayed for 2 days and all he did was complain. UUGGGHHH!! He's a city-boy, no wonder. I wanted to slap him! But we got through it fine.
Anyway, I highly recommend these places to visit:
Craigmillar Castle in Central Scotland. Try to go there on a cold, foggy and rainy day if you're the spooky loving type of person. When you walk in the castle, there's a big tree just inside the doorway. It gives it great appeal and even more spookiness. What added to the spookiness was it was only Jamie and I there. There's a doorway type thing in one of the turrets and it has a chain curtain across it. The wind was blowing like mad down the turret and causing the chains to move eerily and make a "clink, clink, clink" noise. Jamie was too scared to go see what was inside (I dont know why, he's 29, for christs sake!) so I slowly and quietly walked over to it with Jamie right behind me and his hand on my back. When we got to it I parted the chains and looked inside. There was hay in it with pigeon droppings. Nothing spooky. Jamie said "well that was for nothing" and when he said that 2 pigeons went "OOOOO" and flapped their wings really loudly. Jamie screamed like a little girl and ran out of the room!! I just stood there with a blank look on my face! But I highly recommend that castle for it's spookiness. Mary, Queen of Scots stayed there a couple of times. It was built in the early 15th century.
Linlithgow Palace: Birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. The palace stands on a small hill over looking a small loch. Linlithgow means "the loch in the damp hollow" All the Stewart kings lived here from James I (1406-37) and later it housed Cromwell, Bonnie Prince Charlie and, after Culloden, the Duke of Cumberland. The palace is beautiful and has a newly restored fountain in the courtyard and DRAT IT! beacause the fountain was only on 2 days this year, and the second day was the day BEFORE I was there. Oh and children aged between 8 and 12 give you a guided tour if you like. I didnt, but I did hear what they were saying and they're so smart! They know everything about the palace.
Tantallon Castle: My favorite!! It is a beautiful castle and sits on the cliff over looking the Bass Rock in North Berwick. I got lost in this castle a couple of times so just remember where you're going and prepare your lungs for the walk up the stairs to the highest battlements. The walk is worth it as the view is spectacular. I'm not sure how old it is or who or what happened here. I didnt buy the castle guide books like I should have. I cant even remember all the castles I went to! :'( I'm going back to live there next year, so I shouldnt be sad! :-)
Not recommended but still a good place to visit;
Eilean Donan Castle: The inside of the castle isnt what you'd expect. It was rebuilt in the 1930's and the inside looks like that, the 30's. The MacRae family still live there and they made it "liveable"Thankfully, they made the exterior look 14th century-ish. The three Lochs around it are beautiful and make for a wonferful picture at night. Dornie is where Jamie and I stayed, at the Dornie Hotel. They're not too friendly and the food isnt great but at least you have a roof over your head for a night and a comfortable bed. It was very windy and cold so I suggest you bring a windbreaker/rain jacket with you if you plan on walking a while. And if you dont have suitable clothing, there's an outdoor clothing shop off the main highway just past the castle.
This is where you go on to Skye. Take the A87 from kyle of Lochalsh, over the Skye bridge and continue on the A87 until you reach Portree then turn off on the A855. The shoreline and mountains are beautiful on the road. And you'll get a lovely (and equal) view of both. Flora MacDonald's (you'll remember her from one of the newer Outlander books, forgot which one) grave is at Kilmuir near Uig (western side) in Trotternish (mountain/rock range) It says here in my book "The fourth of Skye's great wings is Trotternish, a landscape of many astonishments, a symphony wrought in rock. It begins calmly enough if you board it discreetly by its Loch Snizort (eh?) shore. From the west coast of the wing, you see only a hunchbacked landscape with occasional dark hints of the formidable face that stares eastward beyond the skyline, twists out along a cliff, and with deep enough water to accommodate the ferry to Harris. Kilmuir lives above and beyond a clutch of climbing hairpins, a village forever aching with loss. Flora MacDonald lies here, the heroine of Bonnie Prince Charlie's fight after Culloden. Her bold and colorful life is still wedded of that fateful aquaintance with the Prince, and more than 250 years after Culloden and all that, the Scottish throne is as empty and Stewart-less as it was when he fled his lost cause" I didnt go to anywhere else on Skye but please do if you have time. I'm sure there are plently more beautiful places to see in Waternish and Duirinish, Minginish and Strathaird, all of these are mountain ranges just so you know. You can drive for miles on Skye and not see anyone or anything.
Thats what makes it so beautiful. A land untouched.
The same goes for Glencoe. There's a verra sad and tragic story called the Massacre of Glencoe. Read up on it. When I went through there going to Dornie, it was rainy and foggy. Seeing that was seeing the true Scotland. Beautiful mountains shrouded in mist, myth and mystery. I felt at home! Coming back down it was sunny and clear, so I got to see both sides of Highland weather, although the sun doesnt really last long. But as a Highlander told me "The sun is always shinin' on Alba, exep' the clouds block it from our view!"
I didnt make it to Loch Ness or Culloden, but please go there yourself. Dont pass up that chance like I did. I feel so stupid for doing that and I regret it more than anything.
My life changed whilst I was in Scotland. I met my best friend and saw the land that I knew I loved even before I'd ever visited it. And in the end, I fell in love with Jamie! I like to think of it as a "Jamie and Claire" story but without everything else they went through! hehe.
I have tons more of places for recommendation but cant think of them all right now. Sorry! Hope this helps though.
Cheers,
Alisha
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Thanks for the Info! -- Jaden, 08:40:23 09/29/06 Fri
Wow, thanks for all of the great information and insight.
I stumbled upon this lovely sight and couldn’t have been more pleased with the jewels of knowledge I’ve found.
I’m getting together a trip to Scotland for me and a friend for next June (2007). My friend has never read any of the Outlanders (and probably won’t) but I have and so some of the places we are going to visit are my doing - in search of J/C footprints.
I’ve been to Edinburgh before but this time I want to roam around the Highlands and see the battle sights (Stirling, Culloden, Glencoe) and of course the castles and various abbeys (too many to list).
I do have reservations about driving but I have heard so many good things about renting a car and seeing things at your own pace without being hindered by time restraints, etc. My traveling buddy is not excited about renting the car because she is not a risk-taker and fears that we won’t know how to “do it right”. The beauty of our friendship is that I am a risk-taker. I calm and assure her that all will be fine (while silently assuring myself in the process).
Again, thanks to everyone who posted. Great info and wonderful pictures!!
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- jamie and claire tour -- sue, 07:09:51 09/09/06 Sat
Hi, my Mum and I are fans of the series of books and want to go on a package tour to scotland, there is an american tour but I am based in the UK and wondered if anyone knows of any uk arranged tours????
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Back from Ireland, trip report and pictures available! -- Green Dragon, 13:58:39 08/08/06 Tue
For those interested, here's my trip report (very detailed) and pictures for a great two week trip in Ireland!
http://www.greendragonartist.com/BItripreports2006.htm
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- trip to Scotland -- Eileen Lim, 07:32:36 05/23/06 Tue
Shall be going to going to Scotland for 5 days in July. Coming from the Malaysia its going to be budget travelling. We are renting a car and camping for the nights. Shall be travelling from Newcastle. What are the advises for travelling around Scotland? Shall be stopping over in Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness, Fort William and Glasgow. Could anyone recommend camping sites near these areas? What is the weather like during the end of July? What should we prepare for a camping trip in Scotland?
Thanks and sorry for the numerous questions
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- 3th honeymoon in the paradise -- Verònica, 11:42:46 05/19/06 Fri
HI!!!
my name is Verònica and I live in Barcelona. Spain.
my husband and me wants to celebrate a special aniversary of our engagement.
We plan a trip to scotland during 8 days and make a route.
what things we can visit?
We want to stay: 3 days in a b&b in Fort William
3 days in Inverness
2 days in Edinburgh
Could you recomend some interesting visits?
and most important...which locations of the book (and where are there)we can visit?
Thanks a lot.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Scottish Honeymoon :) -- Raina, 08:20:34 05/16/06 Tue
We are going to Scotland for our honeymoon at the end of July ( :)!!!!!), and I thought I'd pick the brains of you ladies who have been there already. We heard that train travel in Scotland is very convenient and easy, so we are thinking about buying rail passes so we don't have to rent a car. Has anyone else used the train system there? Any suggestions/input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Careful -- Wishaw, 00:54:03 05/18/06 Thu
- ei -- veronica, 11:46:55 05/19/06 Fri
- It's true - the train system is very reliable. Where the trains don't go, the buses go. You don't need to rent a car by any means, you just have to be willing to wait for the public transportation. I traveled to Scotland when I studied abroad at Cambridge University, and it was amazing! Enjoy the trip! (NT) -- Lady Becca K, 14:09:41 05/19/06 Fri
- Travelling in Scotland -- CatherineM, 14:11:55 05/23/06 Tue
- I have ridden trains in England, but not Scotland. It sounds fun, but you might be a bit limiited in your locations, but the buses in Scotland are good too. You could combine the two. A note of caution - we did a highlands bus trip w/ girl scouts and the windy, hilly ride made quite a few of us sick. I read in an earlier msg about canal boat trips - sounded really nice. My husband and I had out honeymoon in Chester, England 16 yrs ago. Being married it great! (NT) -- Good luck and happy wedding!! Lady JenF, 13:05:44 06/09/06 Fri
- Scottish Honeymoon -- dale, 12:13:11 06/28/06 Wed
- Stumbled on something -- Lady Morilka, 05:43:47 05/15/06 Mon
I have to admit, I´ve never been to scotland but I stumbled over the following link of small B&B near Inverness. Here´s the LINK
the side is in german but I can help with the translation just e-mail me (just take out the no Spam)
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Culloden -- Wuschl, 04:56:01 03/24/06 Fri
Though I've been to Scotland for several times bevor, I've never been to Culloden.
Last year's October I went again to Scotland, a friend of mine married over there.
I had planned to make a journey across the Highlands bevor this. I started in Drumnadrochid on Oct 1st at about 4 a.m (The marriage was set at 1 p.m. in St. Andrews)
There was full moon, so I had the great idea of visiting Culloden Fields when passing Inverness.
.. but I hadn't thought of mine beeing such a scaredy-cat!
Everything seemed to be a wee bit haunted when I arrived in Culloden at about 5 a.m. It was still dark then, the moon was shining, there were strange shadows of coulds and... uuh!
Has anyone of you ever been to Culloden and has also felt this being a very eldrich place?
Love, Wuschl
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Scotland in May-clothes to bring? Money? -- Ann Skelton, 01:30:50 05/12/06 Fri
My husband and I are planning to go to Scotland in May 2007. We're going on an escorted tour. Just wanted to know what type of clothing to bring around this time? Will it be cold or hot? Also money..bring cash or credit/atm card? or both?
thanks:)
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- I AM PLANNING TO TAKE MY SON TO EUROPE WHEN HE'S 17 (THAT'S Four YEARS AWAY) -- AYIRA from Panama, 17:48:27 01/03/06 Tue
I have planned to take a trip to Europe with my son when he's 17, that's four years down the road, but you'll be surprised how fast 4 years goes by. So, pursuant to this dream, I would like for someone to tell me what time of the year is best to travel there, not too hot not too cold, we don't mind the rain (where we come from it rains 9 months out of the year, but is NEVER cold, we are from Panama), specially Scotland (The Highlands), Rome, Spain, Greece and so on...
A summary would be nice.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- It is always cold in Scotland -- Janet W, 08:14:46 01/16/06 Mon
- I would stay out of Scotland anytime between November and March, simply because the days are so SHORT you won't get to see/do anything. The wind is bitter and cold. April should be much better, and of course warmer on down the summer. (NT) -- Green Dragon, 12:09:46 01/17/06 Tue
- In my opinion, the best time for Scotland is August where the temperature is milder and you have the Military Tattoo which should not be missed and the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh. Rome in summer is just beautiful and as for Greece, I went in mid-September and it was still very warm without a drop of rain. Before September, it is too hot. (NT) -- Gloria, 06:24:49 03/31/06 Fri
- go to spain -- veronica, 11:54:50 05/19/06 Fri
- Yes it is cold in Scotland. However, I made a trip last Nov and again Dec/Jan. Airfare was only $512 via Orbitz. I stayed w/friends. I had a grreat time in spite of the early darkness. Darkness can bring on a bit more chills than the cold. 5 of us saw a ghost on a cemetary Ghost Tour in Edinburgh. If you're 'sensitive' like me, you'll get an ice cold chill up your backside. And don't forget the city pubs for night time too. But for highland travel, I'll probably plan more for May to Sept. (NT) -- Gypsy Anna, 11:40:22 02/19/07 Mon
- OK, it's Ireland rather than Scotland, but me and three girlfriends are traveling in June/July 2006. We are staying in Counties Kerry, Kilkenny and Dublin. Any suggestions? -- Green Dragon, 12:11:12 01/17/06 Tue
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Edinburgh Castle- Festival????? -- Alene, 11:19:30 09/08/05 Thu
My family of 5 is traveling to Scotland in August of 2006. I heard (somewhere) of a festival where they do the traditional "Calling of the Clans". It takes place at Edinburgh Castle, sometime in August, and is said to be very popular; "buy your tickets a year in advance" popular. Now I can't find the information. Is it perhaps the "Tattoo" festival/event? Any info would be very helpful. Thanks in advance.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Deinitely sounds like the "Tattoo". There is a huge cultural festival in Edinbugh in Aug, lots of shows of various kinds (opera, theatre you name it), and also a famous Fringe Festival - loads of theatre and alternative stuff (perfomred in this myself back in 1978!) but the "Tattoo" at the castle is the big Scottish culture thing with pipe bands and the like. didn't know they did a Calling of the Clans, but if they do it would be there. (NT) -- Tooki, 16:12:21 10/15/05 Sat
- The Edinburgh Military Tattoo? Runs the duration of August during the Edinburgh Fringe/Edinburgh International Festivals. Try visitscotland.com or maybe ticketscotland.co.uk for tickets/information. They also do a 'tattoo practice' in the week leading up to the festival, where you can scam cheaper tickets than for the real deal, this is in very early August, I think it was the 1st to the 5th they ran practices this year. Hope that helps. (NT) -- Lauren, 11:04:47 10/19/05 Wed
- I am certain that they don't do the calling of the clans at the Edinburgh Tattoo. It is devoted to music and dance presentations. It must be another Festival you mean. (NT) -- Ron, 19:57:52 01/05/06 Thu
- I don't think it's the Tattoo either, as it's mainly a musical show type of thing....lot of pipers, in kilts *G* ;) A word of advice though...if you're still planning on travelling to Edinburgh in August this year, book accomodation early...like now early!! The Tattoo & The Fringe Festival are incredibly popular, people travel in from all over & it is impossible to find decent, nicely priced accomodation from about 2/3 maybe even 4 months before the Festival begins. (NT) -- Katy, 11:21:42 02/27/06 Mon
- What to see in Paris -- LadyMeri, 03:42:41 01/16/06 Mon
I'm not sure if it's appropriate to ask tips about Paris here but isn't that related to J&C as well as Scotland. Anyway, would anyone happen to know which of the places mentionned in DIA really exist? Feel also free to mention other places you think would be worth visiting.
Thank you very much.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Scotland 2005 -- keirsten, 17:18:56 01/14/06 Sat
Hi all. My husband and I went to Scotland and Ireland in June of 05 for our honeymoon. It was AMAZING!! We rented a car and toured around for a week. I've wanted to visit Scotland since reading Outlander 5 or 6 years ago and it was everything that DG describes!! We spent an afternoon at Culloden and Clava Cairns and we spent 3 days at a hotel overlooking the Loch Ness (The Clansman Hotel, I highly recommend it). No moster sightings though! The characters from the book have never seemed more real to me than when we were in the same places that DG writes about. Culloden just about made me cry!! When we got back I started a re-read of all the books in anticipation of ABOSAA and it was amazing to read about Edinburgh castle and Holyrood Palace and actually picture the real thing in my mind!!
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- My August 200 trip to Scotland... including the McKenzie Clan Gathering near Castle Leod!!!! -- Green Dragon, 06:33:48 10/27/05 Thu
If anyone would like to read about my trip (included England, Scotland and Wales), it's here:
http://www.greendragonartist.com/TDCscotlandwales.html
Included is a picture of the lands ruled by the McKenzies at thier height of power. My great-grandmother is a McKenzie, so we went to the Year 2000 Clan Gathering on the Clan Chief's grounds... which were part of Castle Leod. I didn't realize (though I should have!!!) that this was the basis of Castle Leoch. I just remember feeling glad that I'm related to Roger, Jamie, Dougal, Colum, Jocasta, Brianna, Jemmie... etc.!!!!
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- http://www.scotland247.co.uk is worth a look, especially Loch Rannoch and Loch Tummel (which is where I stay each year). For self catering, you cannot beat Dunalastair Holiday Homes www.dunalastair.com, especially East Lodge which has its own tower. Loch Tummel features on the UK cover of Dragonfly in Amber and this view can be found on searches on 'Queen's View.' It is also centrally based, an hour from Edinburgh one way and about an hour from Culloden the other by car. -- Alastair, 12:02:46 01/16/06 Mon
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- A link to some Scotland Photos -- Marcie, 13:08:32 06/07/05 Tue
Since there are so many neat places to see in Scotland that relate to the books I thought I would just link my photo album to share. Brochs, standing stones, black houses, Culloden, a Fairy Hill, and lots of other pictures. Enjoy.
Click Here for my Webshots Album of our Scotland 2002 trip
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- We must not forget our resident travel agent. :D -- Judie, 16:31:00 07/09/05 Sat
.
.
Celtic Journeys - specializing in an Outlander Tour. Quite a few ladies at LOL have been on the very first tour and enjoyed it.
Click here to go to Judy's web site and see what she has to offer. :-)
Judie
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Take a Barge Trip -- Integra Casey, 20:58:45 07/31/05 Sun
I highly recommend a barge trip I took couple of years ago. The barge (which is a luxury barge with gourmet food, a sommelier, en-suite full bathrooms) travels down the Caledonian Canal in the Highlands. We visited many of the places referred to in The Outlander Series: Loch Ness, Urquart Castle, Kilmartin, Culloden. We also visited Cawdor Castle (of MacBeth fame) and Eilean Donan castle. The passing scenary was incredibly beautiful - I never thought that trees and mountains could be so breathtaking and wonderous. The maximum number of guests is eight, so the shore excursions can be very flexible and one gets a very personalized tour of the sights. For example, one of the passengers knew of a not so well known stone circle, to which we made an impromptu visit. It was quite impressive and we had it all to ourselves.
Another time, we stayed in Port Appin near Oban in a hotel called The Airds Hotel which is situated right across Loch Linnhe. It was so relaxing sitting by the peat fire place and the surroundings so beautiful, I never wanted to leave.
The food was amazing, the people were so warm and kind, the weather was brilliant (yes, I even loved the rain and the mist being from Los Angeles) - I wish I could live there.
In late August, I am going to the Orkey Islands - I can't wait to see the Ring of Brodgar. Je Suis Prest.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Just spent a week in Scotland (guided group coac tour) -- Margit, 04:01:27 07/25/05 Mon
Just few things as I am still quite fascinated.
The landscape in the HIghlands is beyond my words - fantastic, specially as we had a very nice weather all the time (sunshine /partly cloudy, no rain).
Yes, and I spent few minutes which allowed in Culloden Moor, find the Fraser stone and thought what happenede there nearly 260 years ago. Groomy place.
We overnighted in Beauly (perhaps misspelled?) which is The Village for Fraser Family, in the middle of the town there is a kind of a statue, erected by Sir Simon Fraser, 16th Lord (?) of Lovat!
And so on... there was so much to do and to see and we just had six days time. Now I know what to search during my next visit to Scotland, whenever it takes place.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Scotland on a student budget! -- Deb H, 13:19:41 05/06/05 Fri
My bf and I have decided to go to Scotland for a week after we finish exams on June 10th (luckily he likes the idea of Scotland too...didn't take too much convincing! *g*). We're in Sheffield so he's gonna drive up there..we're probably going to go to Edinburgh, stop there overnight, then head up to Inverness to see Culloden and Loch Ness and then probably over to the Western Isles...But we haven't really planned it yet!
Thing is, we're on a student budget! I'm guessing the cheapest way to go will be camping...but I'd quite like to have some nights in a nice warm cosy B&B! So if anyone has any tips on how to do this as cheaply but nicely as possible it would be very much appreciated!
Ooh and I was wondering if anyone knows how busy it is in mid-June in terms of, if we want to stay in B&B's, will we need to book it now? Or can we wait until nearer the time? Or is it already too late?!
We've also been considering just renting a cottage for a week...would that be cheaper, do you think?
Sorry about all the questions! Need to do lots of research but also need to do lots of revision. Can't wait till summer *sigh*.
:o)
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Travel Agent Recommendation -- Lindsey B, 07:04:42 07/08/05 Fri
There was a request on the Books Board today for any travel tips, and while I posted this reply there, I figured it made more since to put it over here, as well. My DH and I went to Scotland for a just over a week 3 years ago (this week, as a matter of fact!). While we didn't follow the J&C trail, we were most interested in seeing the Highlands, so we flew into Edinburgh for a night and then made our way up to Inverness, where we stayed for several days, taking daily excursions out around the Highlands. The Kyle of Lochalsh train line up toward the Isles (we were headed to Skye, which is where by ancestors immigrated from after the '45) is rumored to be the most scenic train ride in Scotland, and we certainly found it to be so: a glorious "crash course" in Highland scenery. Because we were traveling independently, we spent a lot of time via email with a travel agent from Blue Riband Accomodation -- click here for a link. It was very helpful to have a resource there to help us connect the trip I had in my head with the reality of what was available. We bought all the guides, etc., but I don't think we could have planned the trip properly without their help.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Some miles after Roy Bridge on the A86 there is a turning to the left which proceeds up a steep, narrow road. Here we found the picturesque 14thC church and graveyard of Cille Choirille, with its dramatic views of Glen Spean. We were there at 9 a.m. just as the sun was coming over the mountains onto the Glen. It was gorgeous. If you come back down the hill and cross the main road, the track will lead you to the impressive Monessie Gorge. -- tlk2vicki, 14:58:24 10/28/04 Thu
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- THE ISLE OF MULL -- LESLEYT, 11:53:28 05/03/05 Tue
If you want some hints and tips on a holiday in the Isle of Mull - e mail me and also take a look at the Isle of Mull Chamber of Commerce web site. I can't help it - I've been going there on and off for 30 + years and don't feel I've had a holiday unless I've been there. See Social page for my plans this year.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Isle of Skye -- SusiQ, 12:53:47 08/21/04 Sat
My sister and I have traveled to Scotland 3 times and on our last trip we traveled to the Isle of Skye. The best suprise we had was Flodigary. We could see it from the road for a long time as we drove. It looked as if it was a cottage on the side of a hill. We were so pleasantly suprised by what we found. We stayed for dinner and had fabulous langostino in garlic butter. We did not stay the night as we had other arrangements. If we ever make it back we will stay the night. This is not our typical place to stay when we travel. But after nights of camping this is how we like to pamper ourselves.
I hope you enjoy the site. http://www.flodigarry.co.uk/
By the way, what board is now missing?
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- apartment in edinburgh -- Lady L., 19:39:12 09/23/04 Thu
When my husband and I were married in Edinburgh, we stayed at a wonderful apartment that is situated RIGHT by the castle in the middle of old town. The location was absolutely terrific, and the building was from the 1700s or so. It's an absolute shame I hadn't read THE BOOKS when I was there - Would have been a lot more for my imagination to take on.
The apartment is close to lots of shops, and happens to be close to the offices where you can be married.
It was also great to have a kitchen so we didn't always have to eat out. The owners had the fridge stocked with food when we got there so we could have a cup of tea from the start. It was lovely.
I think this is the address... http://www.abc-edinburgh.co.uk/jtpages/jt_accommodation.html
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Don't miss out on Dunnottar Castle, very picturesque, when we visited in the fall of 2003 there was a small highland wedding taking place, about 8 people, and a real highland piper, verra eerie and beautiful, anyway, castle on the coast about halfway between Edinburgh and Aberdeen -- Scully, 22:24:43 01/12/05 Wed
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Good B&B Linkie -- Renfro, 09:19:33 08/20/04 Fri
Of course, if I knew how to do linkies correctly, that would help. But this has a full map of Scotland, you just click on the area and it pulls them up with each having their own page with prices and pictures.
http://www.aboutscotland.com/map/index.html
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Western Highlands -- Seonag, 06:12:32 12/09/04 Thu
Hi all together,
I just wanted to add that you should go to the Western Highlands if you want to experience a landscape like Jamie and Claire did. The West Coast between Kyle of Lochalsh (opposite the Isle of Skye) and Durness in the far North is the most breathtaking scenery in Scotland at all. And it is mainly untouched and wild, you can travel for hours without seeing a soul :-)
And don't miss the Applecross Peninsula. That's where I have found my personal Lallybroch (Applecross Estate, look here this is only one of my fotographs :-)
You can reach Applecross via the Bealach na Ba, the Pass of the Cattle which is Britains highest road - even the views from the top are worth a trip to Scotland :-). So, there is the pass, there is "Lallybroch" and there is a small beech forest which is very rare for the North of Scotland.
I didn't try it but there are some cottages for rent on the Estate :
I travel Scotland since 1983 and we have seen so much. But I don't like the east coast, it looks like anywhere here in Germany. For a first trip I would recommend Edinburgh-Stirling-Balquiddher(Rob Roys place)- Glencoe(the gate to the Highlands!) Ft William (not worth it :-) - Dornie (with the castle from the film "Highlander") - Applecross (of course :-) - Ullapool - through Inverpolly to Lochinver - Durness and then back via Tongue, Lairg, Inverness (from here a short trip to Culloden) to Edinburgh.
The cheapest and very good car hire in Edinburgh and Glasgow is the local Arnold Clark
As Diana hadn't been to Scotland when she wrote Outlander I tend to think that anybody should find her/his own Lallybroch and places for J&C. I don't think that one can get an idea from 18th century Scotland when travelling just to Inverness and surrounding. You have to go North-West :-)
And if you like to have some Gaelic don't miss the Hebrides! There was never Gaelic on the East Cost south of Inverness!
All the best
Seonag (with one foot in Germany and the other on the Isle of Skye:-)
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Aberdeen -- MollyJ, 10:59:55 11/30/04 Tue
I know Jamie says that there is nothing to see in Aberdeen, but I lived near there for five months and it really is a great city. Although it's nothing compared to Edinburgh, which is stunning in it's historical value, Aberdeen is still quite a charming place. Like everywhere in Scotland, it's easily acessible by bus (the bus station is about three blocks from 3 very nice shopping malls) there are plenty of great places to eat, small alley and stairways to explore, two movie theaters, and a playhouse, music hall thing where I experienced my first ceilidh. You can go pub crawling all night with your friends and get plenty of entertainment out of talking with the locals or you could go down by the harbor and watch all the boats and stuff.... haha.. you can tell which I did the most of huh? I got my first tattoo at a tiny but clean place in aberdeen... it was quite thrilling! Anyway... Aberdeen and it's surrounding towns are great places!
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- Renting a Car -- Aramathea, 01:45:04 10/11/04 Mon
All in all I'd say renting a car in Scotland was a good experience, HOWEVER you have to remember that what are marked as national highways on the map are often single lane jobs and you're apt to get stuck behind farm equipment or Sunday drivers with no chance to pass because the roads are so winding. When my friend and I went this fall we downloaded directions from Mapquest which proved to be accurate as far as roads went, but what they estimated as a 2.5 hour drive would always turn out to be four or five hours.
We traveled from the border first to Peebleshire which was one of the most beautiful places. Then we took the coastal road along the entire eastern side of the country up to Inverness, and then straight back down to Edinburgh. We were very time-restricted or we would have explored the western highlands more. Inverness is a fun town but you won't get to see the mountains that you're expectating. We stayed at the Redcliffe Hotel there. It was alright and the staff were friendly, but it wasn't quite worth what we were paying about $120/night. In other towns we stayed at guest houses and had the same services for much cheaper.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- Edinburgh -- Caitlin, 18:16:41 09/16/04 Thu
I cannot reccomend this city enough! If you are going to go to Scotland, do yourself a favor and stop in Edinburgh--The Royal Mile is amazing and there are so many fun monuments and shops; there's so much to see. We stayed in Glasgow, which is also nice, but not as exciting or interesting as Edinburgh (as I see it). I thought to myself that it might be fun to live in Glasgow, but I love visiting Edinburgh; maybe it just has more tourist appeal. Glasgow also has museums and monuments, though, and they are both fun cities to walk around in, and I never felt unsafe. Also, if you get a chance to stop in at Gretna Green, do it! It's fun and interesting; I only wish I had more time there--I didn't really get to see that much. But if you want to elope, that's the place to go!
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- B&B at Culloden -- Sorcha, 07:43:08 08/22/04 Sun
I highly recommend the B&B Leanach Farm. It's just up the road from Culloden moor and also Clava Cairns. The host and hostess were great and the setting is breathtaking. There's a fantastic view from the breakfast room of the highland hills. Let's see if I remember how to do a link.....Clickit here
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
- clansman center in Fort Augustus -- Sandra Cologne, 00:28:36 08/26/04 Thu
Last summer we spend one day in Fort Augustus, Loch Ness.
We found a wonderfull B&B directly in the center of Fort Augustus called "the bankhouse".
The best attraction in addition to the floodgates of the caladonian-channel is the
"clansman-center" placed in the Fort Augustus abbey.
Here you get a real presentation about the jacobite-time.
The presentation takes place in a reconstruction of a 17th century turf-house. You get a demonstration of how to put on a real kilt.
P.S: the presentator was an very very attractive lad.
So if you are around Fort Augustus step in.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
- There's so many great things to see and do in Scotland..... -- Marcie, 18:42:03 08/19/04 Thu
Sometimes we get ask really open end gerneral questions about Scotland. Here's a tip that might help you decide what to do and see.
Plan your trip around a theme. Places Jamie and Claire went? Battlefields? Castles and abbeys? Ancient cairns, standing stones and brochs? Visiting Hosers? Whiskey tours? See what I mean?
You can always overlap, like visiting a few castles that are in the area of Culloden for example, but it helps you focus and get the most from your trip if you have a theme.
It's easier to answer someone too if they ask about B&Bs in Edinburgh than B&B's in Scotland. Just thought this might help.
[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]
Replies:
