We are staying for a month near Pitlochry in the middle of Scotland. This is not so unusual for us. This time last year we were in North Uist in the Outer Hebrides. One thing to expect in Scotland in the autumn is rain. And this week has been particularly wet,
People often ask us why we would go somewhere wet and windy for a holiday. The answer is that there are many ways we can still enjoy ourselves. Here are just five.
1. Hunker down
We choose cottages with open fires or wood burning stoves. There are few things as cozy as warming yourself in front of real flames. The Scottish government have also invested heavily over the past twenty years in fast fibre for remote communities, so we have good Internet and can stream what we please. This week we watched all the Slow Horses episodes while the gales howled outside.
2. Get out in the fresh air when you can
There are gaps between the heaviest showers, and I don’t mind getting a little wet. A brisk walk with Lulu is great for my mental health. The scenery here is simply stunning and one benefit of all that rain is that the waterfalls are magnificent!
3. Eat well
Scotland may be famous for deep frying everything and this example may just reinforce that idea, but Scotland also has some of the best seafood you can find. This was the freshest most tasty fish and chips that I have had in a very long time. Just what you need to warm the cockles on a cold damp day.
4. Find adventures
Yesterday I drove out to Rannoch Station, probably the most isolated railway station in the UK. From there I got a train to Mallaig on the western coast, just over the sea from Skye. This West Highland Line is widely classed as one of the top train rides in the world and the views were spectacular, whether crossing bleak moors, clinging to the sides of gorges, crossing the Harry Potter viaduct, or looking out to sea. A day to remember.
5. Wait – it will get better
I woke up this morning to this view from our back door. It is beautiful. And the forecast for next week has a couple of days of bright sunshine. I will get out and make the most of it.
Those are just five ways to enjoy this wonderful country at this time of year. Can you think of more? We are very lucky to be here..
