27 | August | 2015 | Sisters of The Bruce

Come with me as I explore some of my favourite places. Over the next few months, I’ll be posting a mix of stunning landscapes and historical treats for those lovers of Scotland. A trip earlier this year took us into the highlands where some late snow had fallen. Thankfully not enough to make driving hazardous but an endless array of photo opportunities was on offer.

I was amazed by the intrepid walkers we met along the Great Highland Way – one of the world’s best walks – so I’ve been reliably informed! At the Bridge of Orchy, an older couple was preparing to camp in the snow and a flock of red-cheeked, youngsters looked seriously pleased to have survived their day hiking through snow drifts with the delights of a piping hot shower, and a warm meal ahead of them.

Driving through Glen Coe – with its rushing burns, steep-sided mountains and interconnected valleys – brought us all to stunned silence. Most of you will already know of the massacre which took place here but the Visitor Centre offers a fulsome picture, both past and present, including the geography and geology, and flora and fauna, so well worth a stop.

A while ago I read Witchlight by Susan Fletcher. I felt battered by the complex, perplexing history but it is an exquisite tale, beautifully told and one to be savoured. Make sure you read it before wandering the misty slopes of Glen Coe!

On a more practical note …In just a few days, you can drive up (and back) from Edinburgh, stay overnight at the Bridge of Orchy, and make it up to the beautiful Black Isle. The Anderson Hotel at Fortrose was a quirky place to stay. I love a bar with a fire, and the full range of whiskies cheered my traveling companions no end. Suffice to stay, it was a good night, and the lamb shanks went down a treat! There’s so much to see in the area, not least the dolphins which feast on the salmon at nearby Chanonry Point. More on that another time. On the way back, take in the broad expanse of Loch Ness and lunch at the Glen Rowan Cafe – where my rellies make a cracking bowl of soup and the best scones.

Scotland awaits…