After being assured Becky would only have to be in the car 30 mins; a Dubious Becky & Excited Philip take off for the loch. (the Sostman's decided to pass on another wonderful left lane car adventure; instead they're going to hop on/hop off - that's their adventure to tell)
True to his word, the Frenchs' arrive at Trossch's Pier, 30 mins later, just in time to run to the boat. This beautiful sparkling loch & craggy hills is the home of Rob Roy (think England's Robin Hood) & is the setting for Sir Walter Scott's "lady of the Lake."
Finally, I got to wear the long underwear, gloves, wool vest, scarves I packed & hauled across 2 countries. The water temperature was about 38 & the air temperature only a few degrees colder.
The weather in Scotland is the most variable of any place I can remember. A difference of 15-20 miles can change from sun to rain to mist.
Returning to Bridge of Allen, we stopped at Doune Castle, a medieval castle - home of the Duke of Albany in the 1300's. Only 1 room is restored to the original glory but the other rooms are in excellent condition; provided you are willing to climb many, many narrow dark & twisted stairs. We were willing - we did. The castle had only 2 other visitors, no guides; it was easy to imagine the royal family living at the castle & the ingenious means they took to protect itself during times of danger.
This is ending our last full day in Scotland - land of many contrasts, images of clans & tartans, whiskey & porridge, bagpipes & heather & the friendliest people in the world . I can't wait to come back.
