We have internet connection again so thought I'd post some more pictures
We left the Isle of Skye on Saturday and headed toward Loch Ness. Not far from the Isle we stopped at the Eilean Donan Castle. We walked the castle which was a strategic fortification in the mid 13 century. It was the home of the McRae clan and is still used as a residence by the current generation.
We found our way to Loch Ness (home of the famous Loch Ness Monster, Nessie) and visited the Urquhart Castle ruins. Again this was a fortification built in the mid 17 century. This spot was visited by St Columba in the 5th century and was destroyed by the Jacobites to keep the enemy from using the fortification.
We drove around the Loch(about 50 miles) and Flat Ella wanted to take a hike so we went to Fryar Falls down a steep path. Ella loved the black water coming over the rocks. The black color is due to the peat suspended in the water.
On Monday we drove past Inverness and visited Cawdor Castle.This castle was built in the 18th century and is still the home of the heirs of the owners. It seems that there is a castle around every corner. This one is still in use by Miss Otis and is the first castle we have encountered with a draw bridge at the entrance.
We visited historic Fort George and walked the grounds. Then we headed to Culoden Moor battlefield for a glimpse of more history. This house sits a mere 100 yards from the battlefield where Bonnie Prince Charlie was defeated by the British army in 1746. Over 1500 men perished here that day. It was the last battle of the Prince and ended his quest to regain the British throne for the Stuart family line. I can only imagine what it was like for the people living in this house during that bloody battle.
After walking the battlefield Flat Ella needed a rest (not me of course) So..... rest we did.
On Tuesday we headed for Balater and the summer home of Queen Elizabeth. More from there tomorrow.
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