Scots Wha Hae

Today we checked out of the Scandinavian Village and hightailed it out to the east coast along the banks of the North Sea. We had lunch in Aberdeen, and you could tell that we had left the highlands and were getting closer to the lowlands as the only places we could find to eat were the Pizza Hut, 'New York' style pizza, Burger King, KFC, and TGIF. We opted for the TGIF. No haggis on the menu though, boo! 

Deek looking like the new laird in his red Wallace kilt, but partially hung-over, as was often the case on this lovely holiday.

Ever since we planned this trip over a year ago, Deek had wanted to visit the most incredible of all castle ruins - Dunnottar, the Disneyland of Castles. I had my doubts that we could find this place, but we did! and we got out to explore in the pouring rain and light snow. Definitely worth it! The castle (the keep) and the adjoining chapel, servant and soldiers quarters are visually stunning set against the jagged cliff. The pictures speak for themselves.

The moss on these rocks almost seemed to be forming deliberate celtic designs.  Human or divine?  Hmmm

Look closely, you will see hundreds of native gulls on the rocks below.

After the castle we drove on, trying to find our way to the Landmark Hotel in Dundee. As it was pouring rain we had a wee bit of trouble doing it, but we finally made it. The Landmark is a laird's mansion, with wood paneling throughout, celtic knot work carvings, stained glass windows, a majestic staircase, a maze in the garden, and a bar with a fireplace and big comfy leather chairs. We are in the Glen Esk Suite with a view of the maze, and a huge bed swathed in tartan and jacobite print. Our room actually encompasses the two towers on the sides of the mansion as well!

It's Friday night in the mansion!

Tomorrow - off to Stirling Castle and the William Wallace Memorial!