No. I’m talking about our band of travelers being told that we had to have our bags outside our doors at 6 am, and that breakfast would be continental (and not ready until just before our departure at 6:30). All because we had to make the ferry to the renowned Isle of Skye.
Well, at least we made it in plenty of time, and the weather was unusually cooperative once again. We took the Mallaig ferry for about a 40 minute pleasant and scenic ride to Armadale and the Armadale Castle Gardens.
The estate is the home of Clan Donald, Scotland‘s largest clan, now cared for by the Clan Donald Lands Trust dedicated to the indigenous people, culture and heritage of the Highlands and Islands.
The ruins are indeed “preserved” ruins. It’s more a facade now as you look through the outside windows directly into the backyard.
But, the arboretum and gardens are indeed spectacular.
Even an outstanding stone wall sculpture called, Rising Lines that immediately reminded us of an Andy Goldsworthy installation.
Ah, I forgot to mention that before we arrived at the ferry and Armadale, we stopped to see the Glenfinnan Monument honoring “Bonnie Prince Charlie” (Charles Edward Stewart…the “Young Pretender”. Honored for his leadership in the Jacobite Rising of 1745.
After lunch we drove through the imposing Cuillin Hills (Black Cuillin) and returned to the mainland via the Skye Bridge.
The last stop is an inside visit to Eileen Donna Castle with its strong Gaelic influence. No photos allowed inside, but here are some outside views.
The castle was destroyed in 1719 during the Jacobite rebellions, but was restored in the early 1900s by John Macrae-Gilstrap, a senior figure in Clan Macrae.
Done after a long but fulfilling day, we made our way back to the hotel for dinner and some rest to be ready for our sure sighting of Nessie as we head for Loch Ness and Inverness.
Thank you for sharing, Joel & Marsha