When we go away, I am forever itching to get out and explore the area, making itineraries of places to visit and things to see. This week was no different; I came to The Highlands of Scotland with a list as long as my arm. I can honestly say, for the first time ever, the beauty and tranquility of this place has meant I have not felt the need to leave once.
The Journey to Solitude
Our remote Scottish getaway began with a driveway that was nothing short of a mini-adventure in itself. The cottage was located 40 minutes off-road, along a private track that required requesting permission to cross train tracks and opening many gates along the way. By the time we arrived, it was pitch black, adding a layer of spookiness to the remote surroundings. But the true essence of the location revealed itself with the first light of dawn. Once at the cottage, you could hear a pin drop, and the sense of peace was totally fantastic.
A Vast Wilderness to Explore
Surrounded by 11,000 acres of untamed ‘back garden’, we found ourselves in a haven where we could all roam freely. The only visitors were the occasional hiker and a herd of deer strolling past the house. The sense of space and freedom was exhilarating, offering a perfect playground for the children and a tranquil retreat for us. Each day, we explored new trails, discovered hidden streams, and marvelled at the diverse wildlife. The vastness of the wilderness provided a rare opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature. With no phone signal or wifi on the estate, it really was the perfect way to switch off.
Stunning Hillside Walks
The hillside walks from the doorstep were simply perfect. With only wild deer, mountain hares, otters, and tarmigan for company, each trek felt like a journey into a serene and untouched world. The sound of waterfalls cascading down the rocks and the gentle babbling of brooks created a symphony of nature that accompanied us everywhere. It felt like we had stepped into a different realm, where the worries of the world could not reach us. There was simply no need to leave the estate; everything we could possibly want was right there.
The Morning View
Every morning, we were greeted by breathtaking views. The rugged beauty of the Highlands, with its rolling hills and distant peaks, offered a sense of peace that was unparalleled. The serene landscape, untouched and unspoiled, was a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Sipping my morning cuppa while watching the mist rise from the valleys below, I felt a profound sense of calm wash over me. My morning cuppa won’t look the same next week, that’s for sure.
Escaping the Real World
The peace and tranquility of the Highlands allowed us to escape the real world for a while. There was no rush, no schedule, and no distractions from technology. We spent our days immersed in the natural beauty surrounding us, free from the noise and demands of everyday life. The simple pleasures of reading a book by the fire, walking through the cloud covered hills, and listening to the sounds of nature became our daily routine. It was a refreshing change of pace that recharged our spirits and reminded us of the importance of slowing down.
A Place That Stole My Heart
I’ve always loved Scotland, but this place has stolen a piece of my heart. The initial spookiness of arriving in darkness, the minor frustrations of power outages, and the isolation were all overshadowed by the sheer beauty and tranquility of the Highlands. The absolute feeling of peace here is on another level, making this remote cottage a place I’ll never forget.
A Sidenote:
While the exterior and surroundings of the cottage were stunning, it’s worth noting that the interior did not live up to our expectations. The rustic charm was somewhat overshadowed by outdated furnishings and a lack of comfort and cleanliness. As well as the electricity being extremely unreliable. For those seeking a purely aesthetic and natural experience, this might be a minor concern. However, if you prioritise the cosiness and modern amenities of your accommodation, this particular cottage might not be the ideal choice.
One of the unique aspects of our stay was the cottage’s reliance on hydro-power. Electricity was sourced from a stream flowing down the mountains, which meant a significant amount of power cuts when the stream’s flow dwindled or there was a fault in the system. It was an inconvenience and a disadvantage worth bearing in mind should you wish to book similar.
Slow travel is all about immersing yourself in the experience, and this stay in the Scottish Highlands epitomised that philosophy. Sometimes, the best journeys are the ones where you simply stay put and let the surroundings wash over you. This week, I learned that the most rewarding travels don’t always involve a packed itinerary, but rather, a deep connection to the place you’re in. Escaping the real world and finding solace in the simplicity of nature was a gift that the Highlands graciously provided, and no-one is more shocked than me!
