*“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” – Henry Miller*

Fort Williams, Scotland - August 4, 2024 -

Sunday morning found us packing our bags, straightening up the cabin, washing dishes, and loading our luggage into the car. It seemed to be a process similar to a game of tetras…every piece had its place, along with Téo’s booster seat.

*Luggage in…its kinda like a game of Tetras every piece as a place*

*Teo ready to go…why not try the front seat*

*Time to say goodbye to this cozy cabin…a Big Thank you to our host!*

We were in a bit of a hurry this morning because we weren't quite finished seeing the Jacobite steam train. The hurry was to see the 8:30 departure of the train…We had scouted out a spot to watch the steam train leave Fort Williams yesterday. We made it to the bridge in time. In true Scottish fashion it was a cloudy, rainy, windy, cool morning. We bundled Téo up in his roomy raincoat. Then we pulled on our own rain coats and headed out into the weather to stand on the walking bridge which was located near the train bridge to witness a close up view of the Jacobite Steam passing by leaving Fort Williams on its journey to the Mallaig fishing village. The village we had visited yesterday…soon we saw the white puffs of steam in the distance and knew the train was enroute towards us.

*Waiting on the train to cross this bridge…soon*

*Here comes the train…the steam gives location away*

A couple minutes later the train came rumbling by us only feet away. Téo still enjoys watching this video clip of that moment...Enjoy!

By this time we were chilled and a bit wet…luckily this train bridge was near the bakery where we planned to eat breakfast this morning, which was the same place we ate breakfast yesterday morning. Good places call for repeats! A quick minute drive and we arrived at the Highlands Soap Company inside the Larder Cafe is located.

Excerpt from their Website…

Highlands Soap Company

“We look forward to welcoming you to our new home, set between the River Lochy and the 13th Century Old Inverlochy Castle in six acres of grounds and parkland. With stunning views over Ben Nevis and just off the A82 one mile north of Fort William, stop in for a day of shopping and soap-making workshops – or just a delicious homemade coffee and cake with the family.

Larder Cafe

Whether you are looking for coffee and cake or a scrumptious meal with friends and family we have brunch, lunch and afternoon tea covered. Our chef champions the best the West Coast of Scotland has to offer by using fresh, seasonal and local produce wherever possible. We use ingredients from our garden and focus on natural and delicious home-cooked food and look forward to welcoming you to our new home. Check out our brunch and lunch menu.”

If you happen to find yourself in the Fort Williams area, we'd recommend stopping by the Highlands Soap Company to enjoy some breakfast/lunch and browse their store.

*Beautiful spacious Cafe/Bakery/Coffee Shop with the delicious food options … The same place we had breakfast yesterday*

*The Cappuccino and Hot Cocoa has arrived…this should help warm us up a bit..*

This morning we ordered a Cappuccino and Hot Cocoa along with Avocado Toast all spruced up. And most importantly scones…a fruit scone and a plain scone. Once again Larder Cafe didn't disappoint!

The time had come to say goodbye to Fort Williams. We enjoyed our stay here, however there was much we didn't have the time to do in this area, next time!

Today our plan was to drive back to Edinburgh taking the scenic A82 Highway passing by Loch Leven and on through the stunning Glencoe area…content to follow the road into the clouds…

Scotland’s Highway A82 stands as one of the most picturesque roadways in the country, weaving through the stunning landscapes of the Highlands. This scenic route stretches from the bustling city of Glasgow to the tranquil lochs of Fort William, offering travelers breathtaking views of rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, and charming villages nestled in nature. As you drive along the A82, you'll encounter the iconic Loch Lomond, where the waters glisten under the sun, and the dramatic peaks of Glencoe, steeped in history and beauty. The journey along this highway invites us to disconnect from the everyday hustle and immerse ourselves in the serenity of Scotland’s remarkable scenery, making it a Stellar link for adventures filled with love and unity.

*Our drive begins leaving Fort William which is near this Loch*

*Scotland…where kilts, tartan, wool and bagpipes are just a natural fit in this landscape and culture*

What is Glencoe? Glencoe is nestled snugly in the heart of the enchanting Scottish Highlands, is a breathtaking valley that is renowned for its stunningly picturesque landscapes and profound historical significance, which captivates visitors from all around the world. Surrounded by towering, majestic mountains and vibrant, lush greenery, it offers a truly serene escape into nature's warm embrace, inviting families to explore its dramatic glens and charming, picturesque waterfalls that seem to tell their own stories. The rich cultural heritage of Glencoe, steeped in captivating tales of the infamous MacDonald clan and the tragic events of 1692 (massacre of a number of the MacDonald Clan), adds an enriching depth to the experience, transforming it into something far more than just a visual delight to behold. Families can enjoy in a delightful variety of outdoor adventures, like invigorating hiking through scenic trails, fascinating wildlife spotting, and exploring the nearby, tranquil Loch Leven, fostering a deep sense of unity and shared discovery as they appreciate the awe-inspiring beauty of this iconic and truly remarkable destination that helps weave together unforgettable treasured memories.

It was a beautiful drive even though the visibility wasn't the best at times. We quickly found, we weren't the only ones exploring these roads and found many of the spots to pull over and park full with vehicles so we were content to continue driving, enjoying the scenery all around..we were able to take some photos to share with you. Enjoy!

*One of the numerous waterfalls we seen along the way*

*Parking lots like these located at popular viewing areas, we found were usually full and really hard to find a parking spot this time of year in early August…*

*We were content to continue driving soaking it the ever changing scenery around us…*

*Enjoying the drive and trying to stay on our side of the road…*

*Streams and meadows*…*inviting us to take a hike…wish we had the time* *today*

*Shrouded in clouds a lone peak stands tall silhouetted against the mountains in the distance*

Roughly 2 hrs into the drive we drove into the town of Callender. We decided to stop to explore a bit and find some lunch.

Callender, Scotland -Callander, Scotland, is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty, offering an enchanting escape for families. This charming town dates back to the early Middle Ages and has witnessed significant events that shaped Scotland. Its proximity to the stunning Trossachs National Park, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Highlands," elevates its appeal, drawing visitors eager to explore the great outdoors.

The rich heritage of Callander is reflected in its architecture, with many buildings preserving traditional Scottish designs. As a person meanders through its cobbled streets, they encounter friendly shopkeepers eager to share the tales behind their crafts and goods. Whether it's a hand-knit sweater or a traditional Scottish shortbread, each item tells a story, making shopping a delightful experience.

Nature lovers will find plenty to admire in Callander. The surrounding hills and lochs offer endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and picnicking. Families can bond over outdoor adventures, witnessing the stunning landscapes that have inspired poets and artists for generations. The air is filled with the scent of pine trees and the sounds of birds, nurturing a deep connection to the earth.

In Callander, history, culture, and nature intertwine beautifully. This vibrant community embraces visitors with open arms, sharing their passion for the land and its stories. For families seeking to explore not just a destination but a way of life rooted in love and unity, Callander is an ideal spot to create lasting memories amidst the backdrop of Scotland's breathtaking scenery.

*The little town of Callander we stopped at, browsed and ate lunch…*

*Beautiful street… here we found some parking,*
*Now it’s time to go explore!*

Callender is a beautiful town with a lot of charm and shops to browse. Mandy decided to try some Savory Scottish Pies from the bakery we walked by. I settled for fish n chips from another place. We met up at a bench in front of a beautiful Chapel in the center of town to eat our lunch.

*We found a bench in front of this chapel to eat our lunch together*

*The Bakery where Mandy bought some Scottish Pies*

*Sooo many wool options to choose from…*

Back on the road our next destination was to stop by Rosslyn Chapel near Edinburgh. It's a small Chapel that's really unique with so much character with so much attention to details in architecture all around… The stories this building could tell or is continuing to tell.

Rosslyn Chapel, just outside Edinburgh, Scotland, is a beautiful and mysterious building with a rich history. Built in the 15th century by Sir William St. Clair, it features detailed stone carvings that show biblical scenes, mythical creatures, and ancient symbols. The chapel enchants visitors with its lovely designs and beautiful atmosphere. Surrounded by green landscapes, it encourages exploration and reflection on its ties to history, spirituality, and the search for knowledge. A visit reveals not just artistry but also the deeper connections of humanity to its past.

*Extraordinary Beautiful… just outside Edinburgh called Rosslyn Chapel*

*Teo running off some pent up energy outside of the Rosslyn Cathedral*

Tour over, on the way out, we stopped by the gift shop and bought a Christmas Tree Ornament….something we have started doing to remember the different places we have visited.

Now it was time to make our way to the Roseate Hotel in Edinburgh where we will be spending the final 3 nights in Scotland. First we needed to drop off our trusty Turo Rental Car. It has served its purpose for us now we will be relying on our 2 legs, Uber or Taxis in Edinburgh. Nadeem, the owner of the car, was expecting to drop off the car at the Haymarket Train Station which is only a few blocks from our hotel. However, we didn't find available parking near the train station. Instead Nadeem agreed to pick up the vehicle from the hotel we were staying in…(gotta love Turo and the flexibility).

The Roseate Hotel in Edinburgh has a rich history that intertwines with the city's vibrant past. Originally built in the 19th century, this elegant Victorian townhouse was transformed into a luxurious hotel, preserving much of its original architectural charm while adding modern comforts. Over the decades, the building has served various purposes, from a private residence to an upscale accommodation option. Its prime location in the heart of Edinburgh allows guests to immerse themselves in the local culture, while the hotel's stunning interior showcases a blend of historical elegance and contemporary design. The Roseate stands as a testament to Edinburgh's timeless allure, inviting travelers to experience the city's heritage in style.

*Time to say goodbye this fun little Mini*

We made our way inside to the Receptionist area and were greeted by a gentleman giving us a warm welcome to Roseate. He invited us to make ourselves at home offering tea if we'd like. Making ourselves at home shouldn't be a problem, this hotel definitely had the cozy home vibe going for it…

*Rosate Hotel - Our home for the next 3 nights*

*The Coziest of Dining Area for Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner…or just lounging in the mid afternoon for a snack/cappuccino from the bar*

*The Bar Area…delicious Cappuccinos or fruit mocktails*

*How about a seat by the window looking out into the garden?*

We had made a reservations at one of our favorite restaurants in Edinburgh and soon we found ourselves in the backseat of a cab heading to the Henderson Restaurant. Well fed and back at the Roseate hotel, it was time to call it a day.

Tomorrow evening we plan to attend the Edinburgh Tattoo which is something we have been looking forward to for some time now…we can't wait to tell you about it in the next post titled Attending Edinburgh Tattoo…posting by January 21, 2025

Highway A82, Rosslyn Chapel, Edinburgh

Attending Edinburgh Tattoo

Fishing Village Mallaig, Glenfinnan Viaduct