Culture, Blockbusters, and Hearty Food

Our program over the last few days was packed.

After the break caused by Storm Floris, we traveled again from Stornoway back to the west coast of Harris to visit 5000-year-old ritual stone settings, a well-preserved watchtower, Black Houses (similar to old farmhouses here), and an old mill.

The next day, however, it was time to say goodbye to the outer Hebrides. The ferry left very early, and a pleasant 3 hours later, we reached mainland Scotland again.

From Ullapool, we headed straight to Inverness to explore the cathedral and its beautiful surroundings, including the famous Loch Ness.

I had already reported on the hearty food of the Scots. Julius's stomach rebelled this time, and instead of taking a boat trip on Loch Ness, we relaxed at a lovely forest campsite high above the loch. Julius soon felt better, and upon leaving, he mentioned that this day, with mushroom foraging, building a fire, and carving, was very enjoyable for him. The three of us also loved the quiet surroundings. We noticed that after 10 days of slowing down on the Hebrides, we still had a bit of adjustment difficulties.

After Loch Ness, Eilean Donan Castle and Glenfinnan Viaduct were next on the tourist hotspot list. This region is considered one of the most beautiful in Scotland, is easily accessible, and therefore attracts many tourists. Another important reason for the influx is certainly the popularity through films (Highlander, Harry Potter, James Bond, ...), where both attractions frequently appear.

Scotland, with its 5 million inhabitants, is very sparsely populated, especially outside the Glasgow and Edinburgh region, and you can also find quiet spots in tourist centers.

The weather, however, remains a challenge. In recent days, rain and rain-free periods alternated almost every five minutes. Our car often resembles a clothes rack.

Past Fort William, known as a starting point for hikes on Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in GB, we spent the last night in Glencoe. Today, it’s time to put on the hiking boots again.