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Posts with tags: Scottish Highlands

Scottish Legends

1.08.2010, Author: highlander
Eilean Donan en, fr
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Whether you are planning an adventure to travel to Scotland or you are interested in studying the history of the country, you will be fascinated by the legends and lore of Scotland. When researching Scottish legends, the first thing that most people think of is the Loch Ness Monster or William Wallace but the history of Scotland has produced some of the more interesting legends that people are not aware of.

The history of Halloween can be traced back to Scotland where it began as a religious celebration of the end of summer, called Samhain. Samhain is a Druid festival that marked the time of the year when the days grew shorter and darkness started earlier.

The Shellycoat is condidered the Scottish boogeyman, Boobrie is a legendary water bird that haunts Scottish lakes, Fachan is a creature who dwells in the western highlands of Scotland, Red Cap is an evil creature who lives in a castle on Scotland’s border. Czytaj całość »

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Post published in: About Scotland, Culture in Scotland, Places in Scotland, Travel | Comment »

Recent Developments in the Mystery of the Loch Ness Monster

3.07.2010, Author: highlander
Loch Ness Monster, Seasnake, Seamonster, Seesc...
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As early as the seventh century, rumors and reports of a prehistoric aquatic beast in the mysterious Loch Ness have brought many to visit this dark, deep lake in the Scottish highlands. But the mystery of the Loch Ness monster still remains something more than just legend, as sightings have continued for more than a century now. Take a look at some of the latest developments in this mystery over the last five years.

The one of the last documented observations of the Loch Ness Monster – or Nessie – occurred at October 15th 2005 at 6pm in the evening (we had also one more in 2009). A local park owner named Robbie Girvan was walking his dogs when he saw a long neck emerge from the water. Robbie ran back to grab his camera and managed to snap five photos of a “dark green and silvery” creature before it disappeared once again into the murky depths. Czytaj całość »

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Post published in: About Scotland, Places in Scotland | Comments (3)

A Guide To The Scottish Highlands For Tourists

27.05.2010, Author: highlander
The steep south face of Ben Nevis from Sgurr a...
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The Scottish Highlands is a term given to the mountainous areas of Scotland that are to the west and the north of the Highland Boundary Fault. This region is the perfect holiday destination for tourists looking for a relaxed holiday or an action packed adventure. The area features dramatically different landscapes, making it the habitat for various plant and animal species. The Scottish Highlands are especially steeped in culture and traditions that spring forth from its unique history.

The Highlands are particularly famous for their natural attractions and offer visitors a wide range of stunning views. Ben Nevis, the tallest peak in the British Isles is located in this area. From gorges to peculiar rocky features, ancient woodlands and even some beaches, the landscape of the Scottish Highlands has a little bit of everything. Visitors to this region are especially advised to visit the Corrieshalloch Gorge, the Falls of Glomach in Kintail and the curiously stacked rock feature known as the Old Man of Storr. To admire the beautiful forests and woodlands, one must visit Speyside which is home to the pinewood, or make a trip to Ardnamurchan which features a temperate rainforest.

The best time to visit this wonderful location is either in spring or early summer. During this season, tourists can indulge in various activities from hill-walking to golfing, fishing, cruising, orienteering, and water sports or even shooting. For tourists who would prefer a more leisurely holiday, the Highlands have excellent country house hotels and hideaways as well as a number of spas. Czytaj całość »

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Post published in: About Scotland, General informations, Places in Scotland | Comment (1)

Kilts – For Each Day of the Year

15.04.2010, Author: highlander
Tartans - kilts

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What is it about kilts that most people find intriguing? Kilts are one of the most recognizable pieces of national dress in the world. They may look like skirts, but are worn by soldiers of the Highland regiments, men not known to be sissies. Many women find men in kilts irresistibly sexy, plus there’s that whole “what do they wear under their kilts” question.

Kilts as we know them have only been in existence for a few hundred years. Ancient Scots wore tunics like most men in that time period. A garment of woven wool called a belted plaid was worn over the tunic as a sort of outer garment, coat, and traveling blanket all wrapped up in one. Due to the length, they were pleated, wrapped about the body, and belted. This was the beginning of the kilt.

Kilts are now available in many tartans, representing clans such as Stewart or McDonald. For many years they were only worn on special occasions or by the military, but they are now becoming more and more popular for daily wear. Most men find them quite comfortable. Unlike the tight pants that many men wear, they are not constricting at all. They are comfortable all year round–warm in winter and breezy in summer. Czytaj całość »

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How To Have A Traditional Scottish Wedding

28.05.2009, Author: highlander
My own work
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The Scots are a widely-travelled race and wherever you go in the world, you always meet someone who either married or is related to a Scot in some way.

It may be your parents, grandparents or ancestors were Scots and you would like to bring a little bit of your Scottish heritage into your wedding. Well, here are some top tips to add a little bit of Scottish magic to your special day.

Hire a Piper

The quickest and easiest way to add a touch of Scotland to your wedding is to hire a Piper in full Highland dress. This will add the authentic sight and sound of Scotland right from the beginning.
The typical duties for a Piper at a wedding in Scotland are:

Playing before the ceremony when the guests are arriving at the Church or venue. Czytaj całość »

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