Over the Sea to Skye

Before leaving Inverness this morning we made a quick visit to the islands of Ness which can be reached by suspension bridges. This was definitely worth a visit and we wish we had more time to walk the entire length of the islands and also to see it at night as there were lights strung up above the walking paths. Next time.

We walked past a number of unique and creative benches.

Another ornate bridge linked the islands.

Moving on we made many stops at 'P's along the entire length of Loch Ness. The P - pullover/parking stops varied in size, number of potholes, visibility through trees, bin or no bin and popularity, however there were many of them so we were able to pick and choose. 

A stop at Fort Augustus gave us great viewing of the operation of the locks.

Climbing up the steps alongside the 5 locks and back down the other side was a good stretch of the legs before setting off in the car again.

Our travels then took us up higher to where snow covered the mountains like a heavy-handed dusting of icing sugar. 

It was pure enjoyment travelling the winding roads with our scenery including numerous lochs and mountains, snow, blue sky, deer, clouds of every shape - some fluffy-white others grey and threatening.

Next stop Eilean Donan Castle.

Such an amazing setting, built upon rocks surrounded by water, we crossed over the stone walled causeway to reach it. The structure dates back to the times of Vikings and has lots of recorded history from the Jacobian years but the current furnishings and restorations capture the modifications that were made to accomodate the MacRae-Gilstrap family in 1932. 

Unfortunately no pictures were allowed inside. The detail and extent of the displays were extremely well done, they included life size models of the kitchen staff to the gentry and all the paraphernalia to go in the appropriate rooms. They even created the smell of Apple crumble being made in the kitchen and had the noise of mice scampering around inside the larder.

Back on the road and it was over the curved bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh onto the Isle of Skye.

We are staying the next two nights at this B&B in Potree - Duirinish Guest House.

A stroll down to the pier after dinning  at 'Well Plaid' for dinner.