Exploring History: Day 3 of our Scottish Adventure

Introduction:

On the third day of our Scottish journey, we embraced the rainy weather and dedicated the day to immersing ourselves in history. Our itinerary included a visit to Aberdeen City, followed by explorations of Drum Castle & Gardens and Crathes Castle and Garden. Despite the rain, we were determined to make the most of the day and uncover the historical treasures that awaited us.

Stop 1: Aberdeen City

After indulging in a delicious full Scottish breakfast in our B&B, we set off for Aberdeen City. As we drove through the picturesque Aberdeenshire countryside, the rain welcomed us, embodying the stereotypical Scottish weather we had heard so much about. Undeterred, we embarked on a walk-through Aberdeen Downtown, strolling along the harbor and back. The rain and overcast sky posed a challenge for capturing beautiful motifs, but we embraced the unique atmosphere. We also took a brief detour to explore the impressive buildings of the University area, adding a touch of academia to our historical exploration.

Stop 2: Drum Castle & Gardens

Our next destination was Drum Castle & Gardens, where we arrived just as the rain began to subside. After registering for a guided tour, we took a leisurely stroll through the gardens, appreciating the tranquility and natural beauty. The guided tour of the castle itself proved fascinating, offering a glimpse into its rich history and the lives of those who once inhabited its halls. It was a reminder of the captivating tales that lie within the walls of these ancient structures. After the tour, we spent additional time around the castle grounds, with me eagerly attempting to capture the essence of the place through my camera lens.

Stop 3: Crathes Castle and Garden

Our final stop for the day was Crathes Castle and Garden. We began by taking a leisurely walk through the woodland, embracing the serenity of nature. The walled garden, still awakening from its slumber, presented a mix of blossoms and intense floral scents in certain corners. Thankfully, the rain had ceased, although the grey sky posed a challenge for photography. Crathes Castle allowed for a self-guided visit, and we embraced the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of times long past. As we bid farewell to the castle, we were pleasantly surprised to encounter Scottish Highland cows, and we couldn’t resist capturing their majestic presence through our lenses.

Back in Braemar …

… we concluded the day by embracing the cozy atmosphere of the local pub, where we enjoyed the warmth and charm of the surroundings. Following a delightful dinner, I ventured out into the night with my camera and monopod, capturing the village’s enchanting nocturnal ambiance, including the iconic Fife Arms hotel and the flowing river.

As we reflected on the day, we were grateful for the opportunity to explore history despite the rainy weather. Excitement filled us as we anticipated Day 4, which would lead us on picturesque walks through river valleys and hills near Braemar. Stay tuned for the next blog post as we continue our Scottish adventure, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty that surrounds us.