New year, new place. We’re spending most of January in Scotland, and I couldn’t be more excited.
A couple hours after I arrived, the snow started (I was lucky to get in before the airport closed), presenting a perfect evening for sitting by the fire and sipping whisky. By the next morning the city was coated in white and the light was brilliant; never mind that the sun barely made it above the tops of the buildings all day.
Edinburgh has an interesting layout. The area is hilly, with the castle perched on the highest point. From the tops of many streets, you can see all the way to the sea in a couple different directions.
In the middle of town there are several bridges which one would expect to span a body of water; instead the train station lies below. The architecture is most charming, and the streets are bustling with people, even in the dead of winter.
I’ve already picked up a bit of the local language (hob! tatties! wee dram!), but I haven’t managed to eat any haggis yet.
I’m really looking forward to getting to know Scotland this month. Any tips?
I know it’s the usual, but I really enjoyed Edinburgh Castle- it’s a classic. Perhaps a bit wet and chilly to walk to the top of Arthur’s Seat? If not, it’s a lovely and easy climb.
heya!
you should definitely try to go up to arthur’s seat.
for further scotland travels, i recommend the isle of skye! great scenery!
I’m jealous, Julie! I only had a little time but loved the National Museum. The scenery is stunning. What a dramatic city setting.
Love your pictures here!
Thanks so much for the suggestions!
@G – We did the castle one of the first days. I agree, definitely a nice place to visit. If I get nice weather one day I’m all over Arthur’s Seat.
@Juliane – I hope we make it to Skye sometime soon. I hear such good things!
@Jill – Yes, this city is so dramatic and gorgeous. I’m already in love with the architecture. Poked my head into the National Gallery today, and can’t wait to go back.
Scotland…One of my favourite places!
let’s see, if you get to St Andrews, check out the ruin of the cathedral and climb up St Rule’s Tower – Spectacular view!
If you can see only one (more) castle, I’d recommend Blair Atholl Castle, it’s wonderful, so much to see!
On the west coast, the town of Oban is a great base to check out the islands and area…if you want to see a neat castle ruin, check out Dunollie (it sits just to the north of town) … what am I saying? there’s great stuff to see everywhere, have fun!
(I’m so jealous!)
…and if you haven’t already, St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh is awesome!
Hope to see MANY more pics of your visit!
@Tanya – Thanks for all the suggestions! Three weeks isn’t going to be nearly enough time in this beautiful country, I can tell. Lots more photos coming soon!
Great to be able to live vicariously through your photos – sooooo long to be in a European country, but am stuck (well, it’s obviously not all bad… ) in cold, gray NY.
Just beautiful. I didn’t have Edinburgh on my list of places to visit, but I will now. One of the few I haven’t been to in Europe. What a wonderful life you’re leading! We just moved back from a stint in China – travel is the best!