Home -> Europe -> Scotland -> Travelogue 2000 -> Wednesday 12 July

Castle route to Kirkcaldy

At the coast we drive to Dunnottar Castle, somewhat south of Stonehaven. The ruins themselves are beautiful, but especially the location on a cliff, 50 metres above the savage sea, makes it a magnificent view. Quite a lot of bloody events have happened here. Have a look on our castle-page to find more information on this castle.

Since Teije has problems with his feet and can't walk for long we skip a visit to the castle since it is a steep climb. But in 2003 we do visit it; read all about it there with more pictures (these are also made in 2003).

Via the B976, a lovely small road, going parallel to the A93, we arriv at Crathie, close by Balmoral Castle. Originally build in the 16th century, but completely rebuild in the 19th century into a country house. Since 1852 it is the royal residence in Scotland, where the royal family often spend their summers.

The road then leads us into the hills and at Braemar we visit this small castle that looks a bit like an Egyptian dovecote. On the inside it is much bigger than it looks from the inside.

One big advantage of Scotland is the presence of public toilets everywhere, something Elisabeth appreciates very much. In cities, small villages, along deserted roads, you will find them anywhere. Sometimes it seems as if we are driving a public toilet-route!

After we leave Glen Shee, we come in a much flatter and busier area. We have arrived at the middle of Scotland again, where the 3 largest cities are: Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth. Perth has been capital of Scotland for many centuries.

Again, we have made quite a long drive and we start looking for a hotel. We end up in Kirkcaldy, with a view on Edinburgh in the distance, opposite of the bay. It takes some time before we find an affordable hotel, but we don't feel very welcome there, so we decide to stay just one night. But the distance to the sea is only a hundred yards, so we have a walk on the beach at night.

Travel through Europe and Africa

with Elisabeth and Teije