Craig and I visited Scotland last month. We flew into Edinburgh, spent a couple of days there, and then took the train up into the highlands. They were magnificent! I really hope we can go back again someday.
Lots of people asked us, “Why Scotland?” We were asked if we had family there (no), if we planned on golfing (no), if we liked whisky (no), and if we planned on doing any Outlander tours (no). Friends pointed out that the weather there is often gloomy and rainy. The time of year we chose for our trip was also curious (fall, not summer). But I gotta say… it was AMAZING!! I feel so lucky to have been able to go. Part of the trip was a generous gift from my in-laws for our 25th anniversary. And I can think of no better way for Craig and me to celebrate than to go trekking about in Alba. It’s a country that epitomizes our favorite vacation style – rugged days and cozy nights. If you are debating a trip to the U.K. anytime soon, I highly recommend!
Hillwalking
Hiking in the U.K. is often referred to as hillwalking. Although Scotland’s tallest mountain isn’t as tall as the shortest mountain in the Appalachians, hillwalking can still be risky, especially in bad weather. But we had great weather!! The days we spent hiking were sunny. And the shorter days meant that we reached the summit and/or lochs right at sunset.
The highland culture seems to fully embrace hillwalking. The Scots have a statutory “right to roam” (although it must be exercised responsibly) and the inn where we stayed regularly makes bagged lunches for guests to tuck into their daypacks. We grabbed ours, walked out the door, and just started walking. Not having to worry about driving to a trailhead felt gloriously liberating.
Reindeer
The Cairngorm Mountains have a herd of free-ranging reindeer. After one of our walks, we serendipitously stumbled into their Glenmore visitor center, a little paddock up by Loch Morlich. The enclosed area is kind of like a reindeer spa. The reindeer take turns coming down from the mountains for health evals and a bit of pampering.
If your child asks what to leave for the reindeer on Christmas Eve…
They don’t eat carrots or celery. Too bad since those things are easier to get than what they do eat: heather, sedges, lichens, blaeberry, and birch. Maybe offer them some regular ole blueberries and see if they’re gone on Christmas morning. 😉
Drambuie
We tried lots of whisky, but I preferred Scotland’s craft beers. I also enjoyed Drambuie, which you can get here in the States. Drambuie is whisky blended with honey, herbs, and spices. Since I know where to get delicious, local honey, I may experiment with making a DIY version of Drambuie this winter.
Is Drambuie French or Scottish?
Ah… it’s complicated. I asked a couple people this question and the answer depends on how you interpret its origin story, which may just be a bit of fanciful brand marketing. In any case, the story goes that, after the Battle of Culloden, Bonnie Prince Charlie fled to the isle of Skye. As a thank you for sheltering him, he gave his prized French elixir recipe to an officer there. Its name is supposedly derived from the Scots Gaelic An Dram Buidheach, which means “the drink that satisfies.” Indeed, it does! 😀
Christmas Bazaar
We’re doing one more event this year – a Christmas Bazaar down at the Federal Armored Museum this Sunday, December 4th, from 1-3 pm. Santa will be there! Admission is free. Bring the kids, get a pic with Santa, and do some Christmas shopping. This will be the last time you can stock up on honey and homemade jam before winter! I have a couple of bee & honeycomb suncatchers left. They make excellent, one-of-a-kind gifts. Our honey & jam is the perfect hostess/thank you/holiday gift. You probably know an awesome teacher, coach, neighbor, friend, or family member who would love a jar. Or just treat yourself! 🙂
Looking ahead to winter…
Craig and I are returning to the Hereford Farm Market next year. In the meantime, I’ll post periodic updates here. Winter is a great time for hiking, skiing, and reading!
WISHING EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY SEASON!!
Windtree Bee 