As the Digital Communications Intern for USAC, I was doing an Instagram takeover for the USAC Study Abroad account. I was very excited for this opportunity. I was also excited to meet some new people and for explore more of Scotland!
After hopping on the bus, we first stopped at the charming town of Callander. I grabbed some mac & cheese pies from a delicious bakery called Moher's and explored some local shops in Callander. Next, we drove through Glencoe and stopped to take photographs of the beautiful Three Sister Mountains! The mountains all had a golden tint to them, but were slightly hidden behind the mist and fog of the rain. The rain created mini waterfalls that cascaded down on each mountain. It was an extremely different sight to see compared to when I went to Glencoe with my family during the late summer. We also drove past some lochs and scenes where Harry Potter was filmed.
The next stop was the Glennfinnian Viaduct! I was most excited to make this stop and accomplish some dreams. The Glennfinnian Viaduct is famously known as the Harry Potter bridge. The Hogwarts Express, also known as the Jacobite stream train, still functions as a train to this day. I explored the Glennfinnian Monument, set on the shores of the beautiful Loch Sheil, which is surrounded by gorgeous mountains set with the colors of Autumn. It truly was a breathtaking view and one of my favorite parts of Scotland so far. I also snagged a Scot's Edition of Harry Potter too!
After some quick sightseeing and historical detours, we arrived at the shores of Loch Ness in the charming town of Fort Augustus. I would have loved to have done a nice polar plunge! Unfortunately, Nessie was not spotted. With how vast Loch Ness is though, I honestly would not be surprised if there is something lurking in the waters.
After a quick walk through Fort Augustus, we made our way to our hostel in Inverness. I really enjoyed Inverness and wished I had more time to explore the town. I grabbed gelato and a pistachio cannoli from a local spot and checked out Black Isle Brewery. Inverness was definitely a Stepchuk kind of spot.
The next morning we explored the battlefield memorial and exhibit at Culloden. I also ran into a girl from high school. Another small world occurrence! Next, we explored the mysterious Clava Cairns, rock structures and tombs that date back to the Bronze Age. With the surrounding trees and flying leaves, it truly added a flair of mystery and romance.
We stopped in Aviemore for lunch, another Scottish town situated in the Cairngorms National Park. We even spotted snow covered peaks and bright yellow pine trees that sparked against the dark green pine trees. Aviemore reminded me of what could be a small Colorado ski town. I stopped by a local restaurant and grabbed tomato soup and gelato for lunch.
Next, we explored the Ruthven Barracks, which I surprisingly enjoyed. The Barracks were situated upon a hill with a beautiful view of the surrounding golden mountains and trees. I do love exploring ruins. I find them extremely interesting and fun.
The last stop of the day was another charming Scottish town called Dunkeld! I checked out the Dunkeld Cathedral, but just missed the opportunity to the explore the inside of the cathedral. With the setting sun, I walked peeking into local art stores and shops, until hopping back on the bus to Stirling!
I really enjoyed my trip to the Highlands this weekend. I loved having the opportunity to explore Scotland more. I am glad I was able to make my way to Inverness and explore some sights I may not have had the opportunity to visit. I am excited to explore Scotland more next weekend!
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