Northern Scotland | Travel Diary

Part of our European adventure last year was spending a lot of time in Scotland. We are going to split this in two parts because there is just so much to say about Scotland. Allix and I spent a few days with our friend Matt before meeting up with Ashley and our mom.

We took the 8 hour train ride from London all the way to Aberdeen located in Northeast Scotland. We stayed with our Scottish mate who gave us the grand tour of Scotland.

We spent the first night watching a Scottish movie and enjoying the local cuisine.

Day One

Day one in Scotland is definitely one of my top 5 days of my life. It was so surreal to actually be there, and see in my opinion the most beautiful country in the world. We started off by hiking up Scolty Hill. I really don’t think that the view of Scotland could get any better then at the top of the hill. If you are in the area I highly suggest doing this.

Our next stop was the Falls of Feugh to watch the salmon jump. The pictures don’t even do this justice, it was so beautiful.

Next up was Dunnottar Castle, which is my absolute favorite part of Scotland. Seeing the ruins of the castle on the edge by the sea was something I honestly never thought I would see in my lifetime. This was also the castle that Brave, the Disney movie, was made about. So cool right!?

Our last stop of the day was to get a spot of Fish & Chips, and Scotland’s famous deep fried mars bars. Let me tell you, my tummy was very happy!

Day Two

Day two we started our road trip. What I loved about this trip is that Matt had everything planned, and he didn’t tell us where we were going until about 15 minutes before we got there. The anticipation and guessing games were just so much fun. The first picture is THE greatest view of the Scottish highlands that you can get. We then stopped off at Balmoral Castle, which is the Queen’s summer home. I wish I could have a castle for a summer home. A girl can dream right?

We then continued our road trip up to Lochness to go on a search for Nessie. Sadly we didn’t see her, but I believe she is out there. Then it was time for a pub dinner, and my most favorite whiskey (more on that later).

We ended the day with a spontaneous hike and adventure down by the loch. The unplanned things always turn out to be the best.

Day Three

On our way back to Aberdeen we made two stops. One at the Battle of Culloden Grounds, and one at the Glenfiddich Distillery. Seeing the grounds of a major battle was such a humbling experience. If you know me at all, you know that Whiskey, Bourbon, & Single Malt are my drink of choice. I had never been to a distillery before, and this one did not disappoint. I’m a huge fan of Glenfiddich, so this was a treat.

Last but not least, we got to play with some Highland Coos (or banged cows as we call them). This was honestly the highlight of our trip. We were waiting the entire time for this moment. I got to touch his bangs, which for some reason was a goal of mine. I’m aware I’m a strange person, but it was totally worth it!

After this Allix and I were back on a train down to Edinburgh to meet up with Ashley and mom. What do you think we got up to in our second half of our Scotland trip. Let us know in the comments below, and stay tuned!

Shelby xx