We woke up to a hearty breakfast prepared by my MIL. This morning, we are finally heading out on our self-drive trip, something I enjoy most during overseas holidays!
We decided to head to the furthest attraction before stopping over others on our way back. So 1st stop was Luss, an approximately 2hr drive from our accommodation. Luss is a small town by the Loch Lomond. Based on information found online, it has scenic views of the Loch and also a Smokehouse Shop which sells salmon. That made me really want to go there!
As we drove along the streets of Scotland, we continued to see snow along the sides of the road. Very soon, we reached Luss. But to my disappointment, the Smokehouse was closed although I goggled and checked that it should be open! No salmon for this trip!! Instead, we spent some time wandering about the quaint little town. It was not crowded. But once in awhile, there were tourists walking along the streets. Some shops were opened. Friendly shop owners spoke to us and we had a cup of hot drink before leaving. Edinburgh was cold. Standing by the loch was even colder!
Next stop was Glengoyne, a whisky distillery which Scotland is well known for. We did not take the tour. We merely visited the retail shop which had many bottles of whiskey on display. We bought a bottle and shall try it after I have delivered!
Finally, we stopped by the Stirling Castle. We didn’t have time to explore the castle as we had to meet hubby’s friend for lunch. We stopped outside for a photo with the castle. The parking alone cost us 6 pounds! But we really had no time. Hence, we decided to save the castle visit for Edinburgh Castle.
We were back in town for lunch with hubby’s friends working in Scotland. We googled and found that the nearest place to park was at NCP Car Park Edinburgh Castle Terrace. We had authentic Scottish food at a restaurant Ghillie Dhu recommended by them together with bubblegum soda! Food was Yummy but portions were huge. Luckily, it was a late lunch so we were kinda hungry.
Next, we walked the streets of Edinburgh. There are a few famous streets here. We walked up the Victoria Street, spotted Oink!, and then to High Street and Royal Mile! We visited the St Giles Cathedral and then went back to Old Fishmarket Close for Wings. Finally, I bought a kilt for my little niece and then bade goodbye to our friends who drove 3hrs back to Aberdeen. That night, we bought fish and chips for dinner and had a good sleep!
Our friends who drove from Aberdeen to meet us 
Victoria St 
Oink! 
Cathedral 
Royal Mile 
Wings for dinner
Perrine Travels 