SCOTTISH HIGHLANDER
Guest Comments
These were the words of Lynn Underhill after cruising for 6 nights on the Scottish Highlander. She clearly thoroughly enjoyed the experience, but we'll let her tell you in her own words.
We began our barge cruise in Inverness where we were met by our tour guide, Anthony. My husband, myself and five other passengers were transferred by private coach to Dochgarroch to board the Scottish Highlander for our 6 night cruise on the Caledonian Canal to Banavie.
We were greeted by our Captain, Dan, John the Chef, our delightful hostess Davina and welcomed on board with champagne and traditional Scottish hors d'oeuvres before being escorted to our cabins.
Each cabin was characteristically decorated with tartan plaids, accommodated 2 single beds that could be configured as a king bed, nightstand, 2 large functional windows, a small armoire with several shelves and drawers for additional storage under the bed.
The en suite bathroom was a miniature version of an upscale hotel, including an enclosed shower and heated towel rack. It was very impressive in the space available. Davina would keep our cabin ‘ship-shape' each day as well as providing fresh towels and replenishing the candy dish.
After unpacking, we headed back to the lounge where each evening before dinner our captain would provide a brief outline of the agenda for the following day.
It was sometimes difficult to be attentive during this time as the aromas emanating from the galley were most distracting. One could only imagine what delights would soon be served. We were never disappointed.
Chef prepared gastronomical feasts at midday and sumptuous 4 course evening meals of meat (venison, lamb, beef) or fish (haddock, salmon) , fresh vegetables and fruit all purchased at the local shops. Wines, both red and white were picked to compliment each meal and a selection of regional cheeses to finish. We had the opportunity of taking an evening walk after dinner or relaxing in the lounge on one of the leather clad sofas or wing back chairs where we could choose to sip a brandy or taste one of the single malts available from the well stocked bar before retiring for the night.
It did not take long to fall into the routine of life on the barge. Hearty made to order breakfasts each morning as we started our journey on the canal making our way to the next loch.
The first full day on board we were escorted to Culloden, the famous 13th century battle site of the MacDonald and Campbell Clans. We had a chance to brush up on history with a movie presentation and museum before walking the battleground, where Bonny Prince Charlie was defeated.
Then it was off to visit the beautiful Cawdor Castle where exquisite tapestries and paintings adorn the walls. Afterward we had time to stroll in the typical English garden or negotiate the hedged maze.
In the following days we cruised Loch Ness, we kept a watchful eye but did not catch a glimpse of Nessie. A visit to the Nessie Museum the next day offered entertaining insight into the legend of the Loch Ness monster. Maybe on another visit she will reveal herself!
We cruised to Fort Augustus where the barge ascended the 5 locks and anchored for the night. It was still early in the day, so there was lots of time to wander around this charming village to shop, bicycle or check out the local golf course where the green keepers are sheep!! We choose to do some independent sightseeing on bicycle for the afternoon.
From Fort Augustus we cruised to Cullochy Loch where we took our tour coach to Eilean Donan Castle, the setting for the film Highlander. It was one of my favourite excursions. It is a beautiful castle that sits off the west coast with views of 3 sea Lochs.
Originally build about 800 years ago, it was left in ruins after an attack in the early 18th century. Between 1913 and 1932 it was rebuilt by the MacRae family who are still in residence several months a year. Guests are allowed to tour the banqueting hall, recreated kitchen and bedrooms which have period furnishings. Once visited, one could imagine the isolation and hardship of life so long ago.
We left the Loch behind and cruised on Gairlochy where we were able to visit the Clan Cameron museum, see the World War II Commando memorial and visit the woollen mill at Spean Bridge. This was our chance to buy scarfs, sweaters, socks shortbread and Scotch (anything that begins with S) and more! Our problem was we needed another suitcase to transport it back home!
Friday arrived and brought our last day on board. We visited the Glen Nevis distillery for a tour and a dram of Scotch. We had impromptu visit to a local rock and gem museum which was surprisingly interesting and informative. We stopped at Fort William to finish some last minute shopping before heading back to the barge to change for the Captains dinner.
The dinner hour was signaled by the arrival of a local piper. As on our arrival, we had our farewell champagne, toasted our wonderful crew who had made our holiday most enjoyable, relaxing and interesting. Our appetizer was Haggis – prepared by a local master butcher, it was delicious – I was told. I opted for the less adventurous vegetarian version and was not disappointed. It was also delicious!
We had a main course of duck and fresh vegetables. The most exquisite dessert called Cranachan was served followed by cheese and crackers.
The captain provided the after dinner entertainment – and I am sworn to secrecy so as not to spoil it for future guests. I will,however, say that it was truly a pleasant surprise!
This was an ideal way of experiencing the history, cuisine, scenery, culture and camaraderie of Scotland. We were at liberty to join the excursions offered, stay on board and relax, bicycle on the canal pathways between lochs or wander through the villages on our own.
After breakfast on Saturday as we prepared to leave ‘our' barge, there was a touch of sadness. We said goodbye to the crew, boarded our coach to head back to Inverness.
As the barge faded in the distance we watched the green hills, tranquil water and, on this particular day, cloudless blue sky from the van window. We. remembered the cool crisp mornings, sunny afternoons and the sun setting over the hillside.
We took home wonderful memories of the history, landscape and friendship of Scotland.
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