As I journeyed through the majestic Highlands of Scotland, a sense of familiarity washed over me. It turns out my intuition was rooted in history; the Highlands share geological ties with the Appalachian mountain range, dating back hundreds of millions of years. With serpentine backroads winding through foothills adorned in vibrant autumnal shades, and mist lazily drifting over the grassy fields, every moment felt like a beautiful piece of nostalgia.
My adventure unfolded over several days with a preview tour offered by Luxury Gold, focusing on their upcoming Spectacular Scotland itinerary. This condensed five-day experience serves as a delightful introduction to a full 10-day journey, providing a generous chance for travelers to immerse themselves in the quaint villages and homely bed-and-breakfasts that pepper this picturesque region.
The focus of our itinerary provided ample opportunity to explore the Highlands, an area I regrettably overlooked during my last visit to Scotland. These rugged landscapes should never be missed; their beauty is striking, particularly in the fall. Even the often gloomy weather has a charm of its own, enhancing the stunning vistas filled with grazing sheep and the iconic “hairy coos” (Scottish Highland cattle). Each moment spent gazing out the bus window was a highlight, as the scenery transformed from rolling pastures to steep, dramatic mountains.
A standout moment on the tour was our visit to Prickly Thistle, a woman-owned tartan weaving mill that embodies the essence of Scottish craftsmanship. Clare Campbell, the passionate founder, shared her inspiring journey of establishing what she claims to be the Highlands’ only tartan mill—and one of the first woman-owned businesses of its kind. Notably, Prickly Thistle is the first B Corp-certified mill in Scotland, highlighting its commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
Tartan, the fabric commonly associated with Scottish culture, has a storied history. After the Jacobite uprising and the consequential Battle of Culloden in 1746, the British government prohibited Highland dress, including kilts, effectively severing a vital connection to the fabric for nearly four decades until the ban was lifted. Today, Clare and her four traditional looms, affectionately named, continue to reconnect the Highlands with this rich cultural symbol.
Following our time at Prickly Thistle, we ventured further into the Highlands, with a brief stop at Loch Ness for some light-hearted monster hunting—though our quests were met with no sightings. We then made our way to Glencoe, a place renowned for its stunning vistas. The timeless beauty of Glencoe quickly became a highlight of our trip, demonstrating why it remains a beloved destination.
In the Highlands, time seems to pause, urging visitors to savor both the serenity and the natural beauty surrounding them. I found joy in every moment spent in these enchanting landscapes, fully embracing the experience.
