Through Northern England and Scotland - Part 2: Scotland

After three wonderful days in Northern England, my dear friend and I cross the border into Scotland at Berwick-upon-Tweed on the east coast. The first highlight is Tantallon Castle, a castle ruin on a cliff about 50 km before Edinburgh. What fascinates me particularly is the tiny island in the sea directly opposite the ruin. Bass Rock is a single rock with a 100-year-old lighthouse and is home to thousands of seabirds called gannets, whose droppings color the little island whitish.

Now it's time to visit the Scottish capital. Edinburgh's Old Town with its famous castle is located on a hill and impresses with its turrets, winding alleyways, bagpipers, and its own medieval charm. Unfortunately, we have too little time to explore everything, but the city touches me immediately, so I decide to come back one day.

The former cathedral of St. Andrews northeast of Edinburgh also has a magical effect on me. The area includes not only the cathedral ruins but also St. Rule's Church and the associated cemetery.

Just before Aberdeen, we visit another fascinating ruin: 'Dunnottar Castle' perched on a rocky promontory and scores not least with its picturesque location.

Through the Gairngorms National Park, we continue to the lake that made Nessie famous: Loch Ness is the second largest lake in Scotland and a true paradise for paddlers and hikers.

And even on the journey through the 'Loch Lomond and The Trossachs' National Park towards Glasgow, we are touched by the unspoiled landscape at every turn. Endless undeveloped areas, green in all shades, various mountain formations, and numerous rivers or lakes make our drive an unforgettable experience.

Scotland is a wonderful country and the four days we spent exploring it have definitely made us want more!!