`“Imagine if Earth is Paradise and we are unaware of it” - A Flower Pot`

August 3, 2024-

We awoke to the view of low clouds dipping down into the valley below and shrouding the hilltop peaks with a few breaks in the clouds to let the sunshine peep through.

This morning for breakfast we had decided to visit a local store/restaurant that Mandy had scouted out. We couldn't wait to try this place. Their menu and photos online looked so inviting. Plus it was located only a couple kilometers down the road from us. This store was actually a soap and scent making place with a nice roomy bright cosy café open from morning till afternoon. They served an array of freshly baked goodies. We would give their scones a five star rating, perfection! We order Eggs Benedict Royale for Da, Waffle with Bananas for Téo and Porridge delicious toppings for Mum..

*Scottish scone with a view what more needs to be said…perfect start to the day*

*Eggs Benedict Royale (meaning with smoked Salmon) for Da*

Breakfast over, we punched in our destination for the day Mallaig. A fishing village about 1 hrs drive away. Mallaig is the final destination for the Jacobite steam train journey which starts in Fort Williams. Our goal for the day was, on the way to Mallaig, to find a place to view the Jacobite train chug by preferably seeing it cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct if there isnt too many people….

*Google maps leading the way, off we went to new places we haven’t been…*

So what is The Jacobite Steam Train? It’s one of the most iconic steam locomotives in the United Kingdom, operates in the picturesque Highlands of Scotland. Its historic route, which stretches from Fort William to Mallaig, offers breathtaking views of Scotland's rugged landscape, including the majestic Ben Nevis and the stunning Glenfinnan Viaduct. The train itself is a rebuilt version of a 1940s steam locomotive that originally played a vital role in railway transportation. Today, it captures the magic of the era of steam travel, enchanting families and travelers alike with its charming vintage carriages and the rhythmic sound of the engine chugging along the tracks. A journey on the Jacobite not only immerses passengers in the rich history of Scotland's railroads but also evokes a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time, making it a must-experience adventure for those exploring this beautiful part of Earth.

Why is The Jacobite Steam Train so popular? This train which is known for its stunning journey through the Scottish Highlands, has become a beloved attraction largely due to its association with the Harry Potter films. Traveling along the picturesque West Highland Line, the train's route includes the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, famously featured in the movies as part of the Hogwarts Express. This enchanting experience draws countless fans of the franchise, eager to recreate the magic of their favorite scenes while soaking in breathtaking landscapes of lush valleys, rugged mountains, and evokes a sense of nostalgia and wonder, making it a perfect family outing that celebrates both the allure of the wizarding world and the natural beauty of Scotland.

*People waiting on the rocks to see the Jacobite Steam Train pass by soon now*

Well the parking was full near Glenfinnan plus vehicles were lining the Road wherever possible all wanting to catch a glimpse of the famous train crossing the Viaduct. We continued on our journey thinking we could pull over somewhere else to the train since the train track followed the road somewhat. Along the way we would see people standing on rocks, or along the road etc waiting on the train. It was a cloudy damp morning and we weren't that enthused to stand in the rain so we continued on towards Mallaig to see the train arrive into town. We had also noticed online an inviting bakery called The Bakehouse that we were eager to visit, which is located near the harbor of Mallaig.

Such stunning beauty enroute, the minutes slipped by and soon we found ourselves driving into the quaint fishing village. Finding parking was the next priority, we drove through town and continued around the harbor parking on the far side. This gave us a nice walk back into town. We enjoyed watching the boats in the harbor as we walked along. Teo was quite impressed.

*It still feels a little odd to be driving on this side of the road…*

*Catching glimpse of the colorful array of boats in harbor from near the area we parked the car…*

*The side of the harbor we just walked from*

*Enjoying the Beautiful sailboats as we walk along trying to stay dry in the light rain falling..*

After the nice walk around the harbor in the light rain, We found the bakery straight away. Here we bought some sandwiches for lunch and some goodies to take back to our cabin on a hill. Perfect little bakery with an exceptional view for sure. We highly recommend this place. Plus the food was so delicious.

*Say Yes to a stopping here anytime when in Malliag*

*A very inviting Bakery right by the harbor…we highly recommend stopping here. It is legit!*

*We had to buy a sandwich for lunch and some other baked goodies*

Next we continue walking into town towards the train station. It wouldn't be long and the train would arrive into this quaint fishing village. On time the Jacobite Steam Train came puffing into the station. We had the opportunity to walk beside the train on the platform admiring the massive steam engine. It’s such fun to see the excitement of toddler of see the steam up close.

*The Jacobite has arrived into Malliag…*

*We were able to get up close to it…next time we are definitely going to a ride on this train.*

*If anyone has rode the Jacobite please let know about your experience in the comments below. We’d really like to hear about it.*

*The Engine being turned around to begin the journey back to Fort Williams*

We then decided to see about finding some fish and chips for lunch. However there were some restaurants closed today and the one that was open had too long of wait time for fish and chips. Instead we ordered two orders of Cullen Skink and some Salmon Sandwiches to go..

After browsing a nearby gift shop, we headed towards our vehicle to begin the drive back to Fort Williams. Enjoying the drive back we at one point see the second Jacobite train on its way to Mallaig. This train line has several steam trains working during the busy season.

*Mandy admiring the Scottish Cows in the gift shop*

*We didn’t get many photos of the quaint town of Mallaig…here is a snippet of it*

*A quick photo while we are walking to our car…until next time Mallaig*

*On the road headed back to Fort Williams*

*Enjoying the beautiful scenery gliding by our Mini…*

Passing the Glenfinnan Viaduct again we decided to come back later in the day to hike closer to it since there were still a lot of people there and parking looked a bit too much of a hassle.

*We took the road less traveled for a bit drove past the this rushing water…heading towards the sea*

Back in Fort Williams, Mandy was craving a smoothie from a Health Cafe in the old Fort Williams area. Téo was really happy to get his own mixed berry smoothie as well. His Da found some fish and chips at a local spot. We then all piled back into the mini and headed to the cabin to enjoy some time of relaxing. We enjoyed the food we had picked up during the day. The Cullen Skink was tops…perhaps the best Cullen Skink that exist;) The smoothies were also a big highlight of course. Téo was then eager to run off some energy, before settling down for rest.

*This is the area in Fort Williams we found the smoothies shop and the Fish n Chips*

*Little smoothie/bakery shop in old town Fort Williams*

*Two boys sharing a laugh while waiting on the fish n chips order*

*One the way to the cabin on hill, we had to stop and admire our handsome neighbors*

*The Best Cullen Skink we ate in Scotland found in Mallaig*…*and* *perhaps the best Cullen Skink that exist;)*

*Smoked Salmon Sandwiches and Cullen Skink…nice combo*

*Teo and his Da sharing jokes on the stairs*

*The spiral stairs are the jungle gym of the day*

After an hour or so of napping we noticed the sun had popped out from the clouds of the day. We were inspired to drive the 30 mins back to Glenfinnan to do some evening hiking, hopefully without the crowds. It stays light well into the evening this time yr in Scotland so it works well to take an evening hike.

Arriving at the Glenfinnan Viaduct we were happy to see ample parking available and only a few people out and about. We started our hike at the visitor center and continued on towards the Viaduct. The walk is beautiful with the stunning Viaduct standing tall and strong with the green mountains as a backdrop on either side of the valley floor. We climbed up above the Viaduct until we had a view from above looking down on it. We could only imagine watching the train cross in real time…maybe next time it'll work out.

The Glenfinnan Viaduct, Is an impressive and iconic feat of engineering, was completed in the year 1898 as part of the West Highland Railway in the picturesque region of Scotland. Designed meticulously by the renowned architect Sir Benjamin Baker, the majestic viaduct stretches an impressive 1,000 feet across a lush, green valley and features a remarkable total of 21 graceful arches, soaring elegantly to a height of 100 feet. Constructed using locally sourced red brick, it blends harmoniously with the stunning natural landscape of the Scottish Highlands, creating a breathtaking visual experience. Today, it stands proudly as both a historic landmark and a popular viewing spot, attracting numerous visitors eager to experience and witness its breathtaking beauty and timeless charm in person.

*Steam Train time of passing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct, it would have been nice to see this sign earlier in the day..*

*The hike begin viaduct in the distance*

*Getting some evening exercise by carrying the little boy on this hike*

*A view we had after a nice hike to see the Glenfinnan Viaduct from another view point*

*Scotland…this country lends to whimsical, mysterious musings…*

Our little tribe made it to nearly the top of the trail…sharing a moment (while swatting the mingies)…now its time to make our way to the car…Its been a fun eventful day..so grateful for this opportunity.
*Mandy’s midwife says walking is really good for her in her pregnancy state… she ought to be doing good with all the walking we have done today:)*

Dusk was starting and the mingies had come out. It was time to find our way back to the car and call it a day. Our cabin was calling to us. It has been a fun eventful day…

Tomorrow we plan to leave Fort Williams, heading back to Edinburgh…So long for now see you in the next post titled Highway A82, Rosslyn Chapel, Edinburgh…to be posted hopefully January 7, 2024

Fishing Village Mallaig, Glenfinnan Viaduct

Highway A82, Rosslyn Chapel, Edinburgh

Aviemore, Onto to Fort Williams