In our quest to make the most our of our year-long membership to Historic Scotland, we recently journeyed to Inchcholm Abbey, a medieval abbey on a small island in the Firth of Forth.
Historic Scotland
A day in Scotland: Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond, and Glengoyne Distillery
Most of our recent exploration of the Highlands have been by car (have I mentioned that we now own a car, after 8 years without one?), which has its advantages and disadvantages. One distinct disadvantage is that the driver has to pay attention to the road rather than enjoying the abundant scenery; another is that we have to put in the time and effort to plan our route ourselves.
Read moreA day in Scotland: Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond, and Glengoyne Distillery
Eastern Scotland: castles and hiking in Deeside
After following the northern coast of eastern Scotland, our route turned inland towards Loch Kinord, where we stayed for a night. This area is known as Royal Deeside, due to its proximity to the River Dee and to Balmoral Castle, the queen’s famed vacation home.
Eastern Scotland: lighthouses and small coastal towns
From Banff we spent an afternoon driving along Scotland’s northeastern coast, enjoying the views and popping in and out of a string of tiny fishing villages.
Read moreEastern Scotland: lighthouses and small coastal towns
Eastern Scotland: Hairy coos! (and Banff)
One of my favorite parts of driving around the Scottish Highlands is hairy coo spotting. As you drive along, you’ll catch sight of a couple cows grazing in a pasture far up the road.