Day 16: Aviemore - Glasgow

Although a late night, I woke up fairly refreshed for an 11 hour journey to Glasgow.

Drove past the battlefield of Culloden. We were not able to stop for photos, so had to make do with some from the bus. For the location of such an horrific battle, the area is quite small. I cant imagine what was going through the minds of the Jacobites before the battle. To see such a large opposing force facing you. One would have to suspect they knew their time was up.
Drove along the shores of Loch Ness - didn’t see Nessie at the loch but it was lovely anyway. Did see baby Nessie at the Loch Ness Visitors Centre. Elisha said it was a Plesiosaur, but I think she is trying to hide from the truth.

Along the way we saw a beautiful little castle called Eilean Donan. The castle is situated on a small island just off the mainland with a small 3 arch bridge the only way to get onto it.

Stopped for a quick lunch break just over the bridge on the Isle of Skye. As we got off the bus, out runs a little pussy cat onto the road. I shooed it off the road after stopping the car coming along, then proceeded to show the poor little bugger some affection. Elisha saw what was going on and was instantly on the thing - it was sooo cute.

Got some photos of Saucy Mary's tower, built in the 10th century. Mary was the daughter of the Saxon ruler and cut off the channel to all shipping unless she got paid for the service of allowing them up the channel. Nice little money making spinner.

After another hour or so on the bus, we stopped off at Glenfinnan. This is where Bonny Prince Charles first raised his standard to start the Jacobite rebellion back in 1745. A statue was erected in the 19th century with a statue of an anonymous highlander to commemorate the lives lost in the rebellion.

Also at Glenfinnan is a section of the rail viaduct used in the Harry Potter films.

Back on the bus to Fort William. After all the hype, it was a real disappointment. We stopped at a rest stop for Lee to have a 30 minute break. There was a shop that sold souvenirs, a cafe and a car park. Not the most interesting place on Earth.

Took the A82 through Glencoe onto Tarbet. Elisha and I found ourselves going through familiar territory with the high hills and valleys we saw on our way to Invararey and Kilmartin last week. It must have been a lot dryer this week as all the waterfalls we saw last week were nowhere near as grand.

Were able to get off the bus in Glencoe and got a few photos before jumping back on the bus to head out of the highlands, along the top of Loch Lomond to Tarbet.

Quick stop to get a bit of fresh air and a photo then back on the bus for our final journey today to Glasgow and the hotel. As soon as we were off the bus, we were sent to dinner, and after such a long ride, fell asleep. Never got a chance to call Billy, so Elisha and I missed out of catching up with any family besides Jim & Jean. Although disappointing, there was not much we could do about it.