There are so many things to do up north in the UK, but who really has the time to go and explore everything in one go? Three days, (ok four days three nights) were enough, (ok just enough) to sample some real haggis, sip some original scotch broth and sense the strains of the bagpipes from around seemingly every corner.
Driving for a good seven hours from London, we reached Glasgow just on time for the sunset over the river Clyde. A stroll around gives an artistic overview of the city where everything is written in the Willow font, inspired by the famous architect Ronnie Mackintosh who lived here. The world renowned School of Architecture was followed by other building-size sculptures such as Zaha’s Riverside Museum and Foster’s Science Centre.
The Highlands are mainly known for their highlands though, obviously. Driving along the A82 and towards Loch Lomond, rocky hills covered and constantly uncovered by fluffy white clouds announce the existence of something mysterious in the area. Nessie, the monster, lives here. Accompanying her by floating on the A82, we reached the fairytale-esque Inverness and we had already forgotten about the monster. The road trip is what counts and you deserve a sip or two or more of expensive malt.
Selection of Malt Whiskeys
The third day was all about the whiskey trail through Cairngorm National Park. Smokey or not, from the High or Lowlands, the legend belongs to Helen Cumming and her red flag. After a few more smooth swallows of malt, we drove safely all the way down to the Athens of the North, as many have called, the magical Edinboro. Losing paths in the medieval centre we experienced an authentic dinner in the Castle’s shadow gastronomically prepared with nothing but local real Scottish products.
Dawn saw our bodies wrapped in checked lamb’s wool, ready to explore a bit more before heading down to England. Visiting the famous Scottish Parliament on a day a bit quieter than the day of the referendum debates was awesome and one Scotch egg later we were all on board for taking the highway back downstream.
Do
- Stroll up and down the Royal Mile in Edinburgh and don’t miss out hanging out in Stockbridge area for Sunday walks
- Pull over while driving through the Highlands and take a moment to photoshoot the hilly rocks; every shoot and another cloud and colour composition
- Take a walk by the river Ness after hours overlooking the bank opposite, and then who knows, Nessie may come true
Eat
- Scottish haggis at Ubiquitous Chip restaurant (Glasgow)
- Intimate dinner at medieval setting at The Witchery (Edinburgh)
- Cosy Scottish gourmet at the Rocpool (Inverness)
Drink
- Whiskey, whiskey, whiskey at any local pub
