Caledonian Canal, Scotland
Today, we set out to explore the ruggedly beautiful green highlands of Scotland. Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak at 4,406 feet, its head in the clouds, stood over us as we left the ship to explore Glencoe and Glen Nevis. Glencoe is, simply, one of the most spectacular glacially carved valleys in the world. Grand in scale, green, colored with wildflowers, flowing with cascades, waterfalls and streams, the region is also rich in human history, much of it tragic.
Glen Nevis offers some of the finest hiking in the highlands. Well maintained trails wander along scenic hillsides. Dun Deardail, our destination, is the remains of an Iron Age fortification with a magnificent three hundred sixty degree view.
Lord of the Glens continued making progress through the Caledonian Canal in the afternoon. Passing by swing bridges and through locks, we ended the day in the upper chamber of the twin Laggan Locks. Since the lockkeeper’s day ends at 6 p.m., we could spend the night in the lock without disrupting canal traffic. While the ship was progressing, some of us took the opportunity to walk or ride a bike along the tow path. Carol used our time in Loch Lochy to introduce us to “In Search of Ossian: The Birth of Scottish Romanticism.”
Another fine dinner was followed by a fun visit to The Eagle, a floating pub moored nearby. The owners, Pat and Paul took good care of us. While Pat poured our favorite drinks, Paul shared the history of the vessel and the eclectic collection of artifacts on display.
