“It is in truth not for glory, nor riches, nor honours that we are fighting, but for freedom – for that alone, which no honest man gives up but with life itself.” – Extract from the Declaration of Arbroath, 1320.
The day started on the boat, trying to sleep as I bobbed from side to side. I’d made a good call and booked an evening in the cinema and then decided to bed down in there for the night. It was far darker than last time I was on the boat and had the added benefit of seeing Despicable Me 3 and War for the Planet of the Apes. I think I managed about 4 hours of sleep (loads more than last time) and watched the boat pull into Aberdeen on the deck which was beautiful.
I grabbed a quick breakfast and some petrol (back to non-Islands prices!) and headed towards Killin, thinking I might visit a few places on the way. First stop was Edzell Castle and Gardens which I loved! Places with a good story grip me, and this place had a great story. It was also really quiet and I enjoyed being able to take time with some photos and read through all the information. The lady in the shop advised me to visit Arbroath Abbey, it was only a 30-minute detour so I went for it. The remains are really quite incredible, and there is far more than remains. The visitor centre is a full on museum, and there are a number of intact buildings to look around too (useful as it had started to rain). Finally, I hit Huntingtower Castle, a strange little property with two towers that could be climbed but not a lot else to see.
Next, a drive through to my hotel for the evening Suie Hunting Lodge. This is by far the nicest property I have stayed at on my tour so far. Remote, quiet, charming inside and out. With very little else in the area food wise, I decided to dine in the Hotel. What a great decision that turned out to be! Venison burger with sweet potato chips followed by hand made ice cream, washed down with some irn bru and a uber frothy hot chocolate. I will sleep well tonight!
Oh, and to answer the question: [bdotcom_bm bannerid=”492″]
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