Bagpipes, Kilts, and Castles

Well, what a lovely day it’s been - my favorite in the Highlands, so far.

All that pipe-banding finally paid-off. This morning, the big town of Dingwall celebrated the opening of their refurbished High Street. My Highland friend donned her kilt this morning and marched up the sprawling metropolis of Dingwall with her faithful bagpipes. I have to say, pipes sound so much better outside as opposed to indoors. The band played Highland Cathedral, one of my classically-American favorites, and the Gaelic choir sounded just lovely. For a nation full of stiff upper-lips, their music is absolutely heart breaking.

The real treat happened this afternoon. My friend’s father, ever so kindly, drove us to Dunrobbin Castle for a wee visit. Dunrobbin, you’ll know, is the seat of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland. We popped round the old place to have a look and were, shockingly, not invited for tea! A bit gutted, we decided to see the falconry display instead. With birds of prey swooping overhead, it was all very exciting. If you’re ever in the Glospie area of Scotland, this fowl-affair is not to be missed! Really, the falcon master was just amazing. Not only was he entertaining and knowledge, but so calm and capable with the animals. We strolled through the French-chateaux style gardens dotting the grounds before entering the castle.

Dunrobbin Castle is just gorgeous. The original bits date back to 1401 and the house slowly added extensions through the 19^th century, until it came to its current Franco-Scot façade. Much to my delight, Queen Victoria stayed at Dunrobbin in 1872. She left a handkerchief there during her visit and seeing one-hundred year old snot was pretty amazing, it must be said. More so, Dunrobbin Castle really was absolutely stunning. Gorgeous oak-paneling, fur rugs, flagstone staircases and so on – everything that one would expect from a proper castle.

Our drive back was proper Scottish with regards to the weather. This evening, my lovely Highland hosts ended up serving an American dinner: salad, pizza, and cheesecake. We watched Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and I never before realized just how ‘American’ that show really is. Tonight we’ve been watching Eurovision which is great entertainment. Really, you haven’t lived until you’ve seen a grown man wearing eyeliner and blue trousers prancing about the stage. It has to be said, I’m rooting for Iceland this year. Especially since their song is wonderfully ironic, singing about “the bright blue sky above me.” You have to love it. Skye tomorrow!