Laninga's Travel Blog

Whew, busy day today (and getting used to driving on the wrong side of the road)

We started at the Culloden Battlefield. Here, in the mid 1700’s, the Jacobites (Catholics under Prince Charles, mostly from the Highlands) fought an epic battle with Government forces (Protestants under General Cumberland). The goal was to wrest control of Scotland back from the British. However, the Jacobites were routed and Scotland stayed in British control. The above is very very shortened, but gives you an idea. I think for the Scotish the Culloden Battle is viewed a bit like we view the battle of Gettysburg.

Then off to Loch Ness. We thought we saw Nessie, but it turned out to be a rock. Oh well, it is a beautiful lake. The Vistor Center had a very comprehensive multimedia presentation on the geographic history, the many rumors surrounding Nessie, and the results of a lot of searching for the lost monster.

Our last stop was at the Glen Ord distillery. Here they make single malt scotch specifically aimed at the Asian market, where it is very popular. Our tour was quite extensive through the whole process, from the very first barley processing through to the final aging in barrels. At the conclusion we were able to try the various brands and could really compare the different tastes developed by the brewing process.

Some of the battlefield and the memorial cairn

The memorial cairn

Looking across the battlefield

The heather made for hard going

An old farmhouse used during the battle

Closer view of the old farm house

What’s that black on the lake? Nessie?

What’s that? Nessie?

Turning our backs to Loch Ness, we’re not scared

Very attractive brewery

A view of the work areas

Good stuff, resting for 12 to 18 years

The variety of single malt whiskeys distilled here

Packaged to sell