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Published: December 29th 2013
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The first of 2 road trips, one that left us many fond memories. I have been looking back umpteen times at the photos taken on the road in Scotland and most memories are still pretty fresh in the mind (and heart)! The Scottish highlands is just pure beauty less the constant grey skies (though they can be a beauty at times too). We started off from Edinburgh, staying at our friend's apartment, before heading up north, passing by Glasgow, Loch Lomond, Oban, hitting Isle of Skye at the turn of the day. After spending a good 2 days in Skye, we made a trip out to Aviemore before finishing back at Edinburgh going through the famous Forth bridge. Here are 10 things that I fondly recall in the week's drive:
1.
Edinburgh has arguably the nicest old town pedestrian streets, with cobbled streets and freshly painted shop fronts lining the sides. We have our favourite street near the clock tower where we stopped now and then to soak in the atmosphere while watching seagulls glide past, seemingly enjoying the tranquility of the old town too.
2. The
Arthur's Seat has an impeccable view of the city from the top,
and it is a definite must for Edinburgh visitors. It is not one for the faint heart though as it takes around an hour up with the open winds blowing strong and cold. Our fondest memories were that of finding stone formations (by human of course) along the way up and doing jump shots at the top while trying not to be blown off by the wind!
3. Once we were away from the 2 major cities, Edinburgh and Glasgow, we were blown off by what nature could offer us. Thankfully 'cos we had our own transport, we could go beyond the common tourist paths, and the first stop was having a relaxing picnic along the fields flanking
Loch Lomond, alongside the locals enjoying the rare sunshine. The skies were as clear blue as those back home and we chanced upon many animal friends along the way: Say hello to the cows, duckies and seagulls!
4. There was a treasure in the resort town named
Oban situated right off the west coast, where we stopped by for a quick dinner. We were running behind schedule but it didn't stop us from exploring a little. We had
a picturesque view by the port where the yachts and boats docked and a panoramic view of the town from the top of McCaig's Tower. It was the perfect setting for anyone looking for a good evening away in peace.
5. We had the craziest, and to me, the most perfect sunset I've ever seen in my entire life. So much so that I had to devote one whole album for it! We stopped by for photos along the roadside and literally tried "chasing the sun" as we seemingly raced with it, towards our next destination. It was an indescribable feeling sitting inside the moving car while watching the sun hovering around, and slowly setting beyond the horizon.
6. The word reflections took a whole new meaning as we stared out in awe at how the landscape and skies replicated themselves in the still waters. It was beyond amazing. And I'm sure the images captured will remain in the memory bank for a long long time. Now I know why are reflections, reflections.
7. The best part of the trip in terms of scenery,
Isle of Skye did not disappoint at all. We
started off in
Portree, where colourful houses lined off by the port and seagulls are a mainstay. Managed to capture some close up shots of them too! Continued driving to the
Old Man of Storr where we hiked up to an incredible view of the highlands amidst the strong winds. It was arguably my 2nd most favourite attraction in the Skye. Other notable attractions include the fairy pools, kilt rocks, Uig and Dunvegan Castle.
8. My favourite of all time,
Neist Point. Nested on the western edge of the Skye, we ran up to it akin to pirates discovering treasures off a deserted island. Both views of and from the landscape were astonishing. And we were thankful to arrive at the right time as we caught the sun setting right across the headland. We spent a good 2 hours there walking and enjoying its breathtaking view. It was simply, beauty beyond words.
9. The
roads were so joyful to drive in. Winding, quiet and embraced by nature all round, it makes even the most tensed up driver relax and enjoy the beauty of God's creation. There was once where a flock of sheep and mountain goats were casually
walking on the road seemingly making it theirs. Another compelling reason which makes the road trip such an enjoyable and memorable one. "Country road… Take me home…"
10.
Songs that we listened to on the local radio in the car became our all time favourites. It wasn't 'cos they were nice but also because they are form a big part of our Scotland memories. And even now when they are played and replayed back home, memories of Scotland flash back, putting a big smile to the face. No. 1 being "Let her go" by Passenger.
And these make up why I love Scotland 😊
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