Scotland: Road to the Isles . . .

Today I left Fort William and took the A830 road which is more famously known as the "Road to the Isles." While in route to Arisaig I passed by some very interesting points of interest. BTW, this must be said. I am a huge fan of using public transportation while traveling in Europe (ie., trains) but if you plan on visiting the Highlands you must (need) do so with a car. You can stop anywhere and anytime you want and you can decide to stay as long or as short as you want. There is just no better way to experience the Highlands in Scotland!

The first stop I made was the small village of Corpach. This is where the Corpach (Caledonian) basin meets the sea at Loch Linnhe. From here I am able to see a small glimpse of the snow capped Ben Nevis. You can see it in this photo below.

 

Next, I arrive at the Glenfinnan monument which was built by Alexander MacDonald of Glenaladale in memory of all the clansmen who had fought for the cause. This location is where the Bonnie Prince Charlie (1745) raised the Jacobite standard and rallied his clansmen for battle. Here there is a National Trust Visitors Center which was closed and so I could not climb to the top of the tower. Still, it was very impressive to see in person.

Towering way in the background is the viaduct made famous by the Harry Potter movie is more than 100 years old.

Just up the road up a short hill is the Glenfinnan Station Museum which has a dining car and an actual hotel built from an old train dining car. It was also closed but I still had a look around.

In the museum window they had these cute posters which I had to take a photo of. One of the cats looks like Annie's Lulu.

Next, I arrive near the village of Lochailort. Just off the A830, I stop to take of a photo of the small white church that was used in the movie "Local Hero" which AnnieNC recommended to me. I had the music to the movie playing in the background and started to imagine that funny clip in the movie of the towns people sneaking out of the church while the main character is talking with a local. It was so cool to see it in person after watching the movie at least three times before I left. Thanks again Annie for the recommendation to see that movie.

Here are photos that I took to try to capture the stunning scenery and the "mood" of the Highlands. I wish I could write better to explain what it is like to be here and to see everything in person. And to travel this very famous stretch of road that holds such significance in Scotland's history. I am truly grateful to be here.

Next up, a sheep and coo sighting . . . .