2010 Scottish Mini Break

Wrought Iron Thistle detail on building; Edinburgh, Scotland;

Photo By El. K. B.

History lesson ALERT:
For those of you who don't know the legend, the Thistle became the Emblem of Scotland when a soldier of the Viking Army (in the Battle of Largs, 1263 AD), which was trying to sneak up on the sleeping Scottish Army during the night, stepped bare foot on a Thistle, screeched in pain and made the Scots aware of the Viking approach. The Scots won the battle that would have been a complete surprise to their forces. From that point on the Thistle has represented Scotland.

My mini-break to Edinburgh was far to "mini"! I already have plans in mind of what I would like to do/see next time I head up to Scotland... there is no doubt that I will be going back. As my families heritage lies partially in Scotland, it was a trip filled with a desire to learn about the countries history (nothing makes me more happy!).

With only two days (I suggest booking a longer trip) to see the city, I didn't venture outside its centre at all. I'd love to head back to Edinburgh and travel around the surrounding country side, see if I can spot the Lock Ness Monster, and perhaps drive to Glasgow as I've heard it's amazing as well!

Here are a few of my favorite moments from the trip...

Landing in Edinburgh as the sun came up; Edinburgh, Scotland; Photo By El. K. B.



Architectural elements; Edinburgh, Scotland; Photo By El. K. B.



Entrance to Edinburgh Castle; Edinburgh, Scotland; Photo By El. K. B.



Urban bag pipes, SO good; Edinburgh, Scotland; Photo By El. K. B.

...I visited the cities VERY quaint Christmas Fair (where I drank heart warming Mulled Ale), warmed up in the National Gallery....

Busts at the Scotland's National Galleries; Edinburgh, Scotland; Photo By El. K. B.

.....visited a beautiful cemetery as the sun set (creepy, I know, but gorgeous)...

Cemetery at Sunset; Edinburgh, Scotland; Photo By El. K. B.

....visited the National Scottish Whiskey Experience, where I saw the worlds largest whiskey collection (over 3000 bottles) that contains some of the most amazingly shaped whiskey bottles, learned about the different tastes, scents and regions of whiskey, and rode in a barrel ride that taught me how to make a single malt...

A portion of the worlds largest whiskey collection at the Whiskey Experience;
Edinburgh, Scotland; Photo By El. K. B.

View from the tasting bar at the Whiskey Experience;
Edinburgh, Scotland; Photo By El. K. B.

Wow, now that I think about it, it was an outrageously jam packed weekend! What an incredible time in a fantastic city!

I can't wait to go back..

Big Hugs,
El.