Scotland Revisited

A Journey Through the Highlands, Islands and History

This past month, I was blessed with the wonderful opportunity to return to Scotland once again. This marks my tenth visit to this enchanting place that has captured my heart. I can honestly say it never loses its magic, here’s my take on Scotland revisited. In preparation for our National Geographic Journey tour next spring with GAdventures, I decided to travel this fall with my dear friend Candy. We flew from Rome, and what a beautiful adventure it turned out to be. There’s something truly special about sharing a beloved destination with someone experiencing it for the first time – I find myself rediscovering its wonders through their eyes.

This was my first return since before the pandemic. My last visit was in the autumn of 2019, and Scotland has evolved in some lovely ways since then. It remains one of the most requested destinations among my travelers, and I’m always delighted to share its beauty with others.

I’m so grateful that Candy was open to trying new experiences, including enjoying Indian cuisine at Passage to India. We both agreed it was some of the best Indian food we’ve ever had. The flavors were extraordinary and the portions so generous that even with takeaway containers, we couldn’t finish everything. I’m already looking forward to returning in the spring.

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Journey to the Highlands

For me, no visit to Scotland feels complete without spending time in Pitlochry. This charming little town on the way to the Highlands holds a special place in my heart. As it happened, we arrived on the day of their Highland Games celebration. While we didn’t plan for that timing, we did stop for some delightful chocolate and hot cocoa at the wonderful Iain Burnett, Highland Chocolatiers. It’s tucked away just off the main road, but absolutely worth seeking out.

Blair Atholl Castle

Another treasured stop for us was Blair Atholl Castle. This beautiful estate features stunning gardens and is furnished with original pieces that tell the family’s connected story through the generations. There’s a bagpiper who performs every hour for about 10-15 minutes, and it’s truly moving to experience. I also had the pleasure of meeting a fellow docent named Wendy, so of course we had to take a photo of the two Wendys together.

If you’re reading this, Wendy, thank you for bending the rules a bit in the hunting foyer! As you wander from room to room, you can almost feel the history speaking to you, showing how the house has evolved over the years.

The property also offers accommodation and event hosting – imagine having a wedding in such a magnificent setting!

JOIN US this SPRING in SCOTLAND!

On our drive north through Cairngorms National Park, we were treated to the sight of at least five rainbows. Candy was absolutely delighted as they appeared one after another – it felt like a little gift from nature.

Culloden Moor

During our time in the Highlands, Candy and I felt drawn to visit Culloden Moor and Battlefield. This is where the Jacobite rising of 1745 came to its tragic end, where Bonnie Prince Charles’s attempt to free the Scots was ultimately defeated. The exhibition was deeply moving, and the grounds themselves carry a somber, reflective energy.

Loch Ness

A visit to the Highlands in Scotland wouldn’t be complete without seeking out “Nessie.” This beloved tradition of searching for the Loch Ness monster spans many generations. The drive along the Ness River is absolutely spectacular, with castle after castle gracing the landscape.

The Isle of Skye

Candy and I chose to dedicate a full day to exploring the Isle of Skye. From Inverness, it’s quite a journey – about three hours to reach the capital town of Portree.

Parking can be a bit challenging here, so it helps to plan ahead. We enjoyed a lovely breakfast at Cafe Arriba. I’d suggest arriving early to secure a seat, and note that it’s self-service style – you’ll browse the menu and order at the counter. The food is delicious and they offer wonderful coffee options.

We also visited the Museum of Island Life, where we had the joy of seeing some hairy Highland coos up close! There’s now a food truck there with really tasty offerings, and even some treats available for the cows.

Eilean Donan Castle

We also took time to visit this iconic castle, which has been featured in so many films, from “Made of Honor” to the “Elizabeth” films with Cate Blanchett.

Our Time in Oban

The seaside harbor town of Oban isn’t included in our upcoming Scotland Adventure, but it’s a peaceful stop I love to add to my personal journeys. The drive from the Highlands to Oban is simply breathtaking and picturesque – you’ll want to pause often to capture the beauty.

I knew exactly what we would do during our stay in Oban.

Candy and I have a dear friend in Italy named Joy who’s Scottish, and she recommended we visit the Isle of Mull. I’m so grateful we took her advice – it turned out to be a wonderful day. We took the transport ferry across to the island in the middle of a storm. The gray, cloudy, mysterious atmosphere felt quintessentially Scottish.

Once on Mull, there are a few options available. You can take the local bus to Tobermory or Fionnphort, where people catch another ferry to the Isle of Iona to see the puffins. Since it wasn’t puffin season, and we’d heard that Tobermory had lovely shops, a sea life museum, and wonderful restaurants, that felt like the right choice for us.

So we made our way to the north end of the island to explore.

We enjoyed a delightful lunch at MacGochans, where we savored some of the finest seafood of our entire trip. The location couldn’t have been more perfect.

The Hebridean Whale Centre, located right on the main street, was absolutely charming and would be wonderful for families with children. We enjoyed learning about the sea life around the islands and Scotland’s western coast.

The sun eventually broke through the clouds, blessing us with a beautiful afternoon as we explored this harbor town. We even discovered a distillery offering small samplers.

We made it back in time for dinner at Markie Dan’s, where live music filled the air with lovely tunes, and Candy had the chance to try some Sticky Toffee Pudding.

Where should we go in FALL 2026?

Stirling

Our next destination was the town of Stirling. I’d always hoped to visit but hadn’t found the time until now. We enjoyed a wonderful day trip on our way back to Edinburgh, and I found myself completely charmed by Stirling.

We left Oban fairly early and arrived in time for a hearty, delicious breakfast at Cisco’s. The service was warm and friendly, the food excellent and promptly served – definitely a place I’ll recommend and return to.

Stirling Castle

This castle was truly worth every moment we spent there. The grounds were beautiful, including lovely gardens, and the views of the valley were spectacular. The history of Scotland’s Kings and Queens and their connection to Stirling dates back to 1110 – nearly as old as my home in Italy! HA!

I’d encourage taking your time exploring the castle and reading the descriptions carefully. Some stories are poignant, others reflect the inevitable changes of time. During our visit, a period musician and singer performed beautiful French Renaissance music for guests. It seems there were strong ties to both France and England during that era.

Stirling is also home to the Wallace Monument, though we didn’t have time to visit it on this trip.

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Returning to Edinburgh

I don’t always share these practical details, but we stayed at the most charming hotel (conveniently close to the airport) and I feel I must mention The Bridge Inn in Ratho, just about 10 minutes from the airport. The peaceful walks along the canals surrounding the property were wonderfully restorative after so much traveling.

We also enjoyed a lovely dinner at the restaurant. I’d suggest making reservations as they’re quite popular. Candy had one more serving of Fish and Chips, and I savored a delicious Steak Pie.

We’d Love for You to Join Us!

If this has inspired you to experience Scotland for yourself, we’d be delighted to have you join us! Our National Geographic Journeys Adventure with GAdventures runs from April 28 to May 7, beginning in Edinburgh and ending in Glasgow. Several travelers are coordinating pre- and post-trip arrangements as well.

Here’s the website with more information. Single supplements are available, and prices begin at $4,149 (double occupancy) for this 9-day Scottish adventure. This represents wonderful value, though prices will increase in December. This is an intimate small group of just 11 people. I’d love for you to join us!

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