Aberdeen & the Grampian Highlands

On August 19th we took a scenic drive along the whisky trail through the Cairngorms Mountains.

Yes, we drove in a big circle, rather, two big circles

We didn't stop at all the distilleries and even at the ones we did stop at, we didn't do any tastings. Paul was driving so it didn't seem fair. And, based on the crazy driving, we both needed to keep our heads straight!

Most importantly, we had to find some breakfast.

Starting the day off with a traditional Scottish breakfast - yes, that's haggis next to black pudding!

We set off for the day...

We got really lucky with the weather!

A church in Inverness

Through Nairn

Along the way - passing through Grantown-on-Spey

We stopped on the side of the road to take in the view of the fields filled with heather

Ballindalloch/Tomintoul

Paul is presenting the view to me

And getting some stretches in

Another shot of the beautiful view

So green and pretty! Still part of Ballindalloch/Tomintoul

This is a two way road!

This way to whisky

Another shot through the car window

Birthplace of Duff Beer? 

The Glenfiddich distillery was really pretty

Established in 1887, Glenfiddich means "Valley of the Deer" in Gaelic by William Grant.
It is still entirely family owned.

No rain at all on this day!

We headed back and drove through Elgin

And through Forres

And made our way back to Aviemore. It was very pretty but it was a long day of driving. We were ready for some whisky.

And a cigar...

While Paul enjoyed his cigar, I was obsessed with this bumble bee.