The Highlands, Scotland
The weather was 50 degrees, mostly cloudy, and a wind of 30 MPH, just another beautiful day in Scotland! (It's a good thing we both have short hair or we would look like Donald Trump standing next to his helicopter.) We were at historic Urquhart Castle on the shore of Loch Ness. Written records date the castle back to the 6th century, but in archaeology and folklore, it dates all the way back to the time of the Picts. Five stories up, Gene Surveyed Loch Ness looking for a Monster to photograph. No luck today. The castle protected the main route through the Great Glen that divides the Highlands. Its checkered history came to a dramatic end in 1692 when it was blown up to avoid it falling into the hands of the Jacobite. The castle's ruins are picturesque and impressive. (Now quick, back to the coach where it is warm!)