Scottish Highlands

May 3

The Scottish Highlands are a mountainous region in northwest Scotland. The area covers 9,910 mi². Loch Ness is at the center - this is where the monster “Nessie” lives.

Scottish Lochs

What is a loch……

Scottish people refer to large inland bodies of water as “lochs,” while the rest of the English-speaking world refers to them as lakes. If inside this body of water lies a monster, I certainly did not see one. What I did find was an assortment of deep blue water surrounded by colorful chorus of vegetation and accented by lines of fluffy clouds hovering just above the water line.

Tulloch Castle

Tulloch Castle dates from the 12th century. The castle retains many of its period features, including the 250-year old panelled Great Hall and original fireplaces and ceilings. It is rumored to be one of the most haunted places in Scotland. A little girl named the “Green Lady” roams the halls and certain rooms. She did not make her presence known to me, not even in the middle of the night. I assume she saw me looking for her but decided I was okay and gave me a pass.

https://bespokehotels.com/tullochcastlehotel/

The Highlands

This is what I came for. This is what put Scotland on the map for me.

These are not the Rocky Mountains nor any other range nestled so high it touches the heavens but it sure does feel like heaven when you arrive.

How Now, Brown Cow

The Highland Cow is a Scottish breed of rustic cattle. These cows originated in the Scottish Highlands and the islands off Scotland. They have big horns and a long shaggy coat. They are a hardy breed, able to withstand the intemperate conditions in the region.