America, eat your heart out; the day that you give me dramatic mountains, shining lochs, ancient castles, and Highland cows – my allegiance will lie with you again.
This afternoon my travels found me in Dornie, in the Kyle of Lochalsh bit of Scotland. Highland friend’s dad ever so kindly drove me to this next stopping place of my Highland Fling; we managed to find points of interest along the way (such as the town of Plockton where Hamish MacBeth was filmed). All the while, climbing up into the Highlands, I was totally aware of the great beauty surrounding me.
As chance would have it, a friend of mine has some acquaintances in the area. I checked into my utterly charming B&B, the first I’ve ever stayed at, and popped over to theirs for tea. This family lives in manse, or parsonage, nearby and warmly welcomed me into their table. This idea of the Scottish hearth and home is a fantastic one!
After dinner I was taken for a wee jaunt around Loch Duich, and it was at about this point that I fell head over heels. Imagine, glittering waters encased by dramatic glacial mountains. Loch Duich home to the famous and, albeit, overly-photographed Eilean Donan Castle but perfectly speaks for itself in its own right. Villages surround the banks of the loch and people have been living here in relative peace and happiness for years, their lives influenced by the wild beauty all around. I can’t wait to go exploring tomorrow!
This evening has been rather quiet. I’m watching the sunset outside my casement window, listening to proper Scottish music, and documenting my experiences. I also went rock-collecting of which Erin, a sweet girl from back home, is going to be the lucky recipient. If you remember, I was given a Scottish rock ages ago meant for me to “return” one day, I still haven’t found the perfect moment to let go of my rock but did find the best place to retrieve Erin’s. All in good time.
Bed tonight and breakfast tomorrow, then onwards to Skye!
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