We spent our first night in Scotland in a hotel just south of Glasgow. The weather was crisp and cool the next morning, with light rain showers on and off throughout the day, and mists in the higher Highland passes. We set off north, driving along the shores of the famous Loch Lomond. At twenty-four miles long, Loch Lomond is second in size only to Loch Ness. It is well-known mostly because of its easy proximity to Glasgow and the beloved folk song praising its bonnie, bonnie banks. 

Turning west through the craggy hills, we stopped at the Rest-and-Be-Thankful-Pass, so named because in the late nineteenth century the second- and third-class passengers had to get out and help push the coach and its first-class passengers up the hill just before this “rest” area. This stop offered a pleasant opportunity to stretch our legs and view the beautiful and rugged Scottish countryside. We were entertained by the cows clambering over the steep hills, grazing on the tall grasses, and the lone black-and-white spotted heifer who stood on the highest ledge moo-ing as if it was the king of the mountain.

Our next stop was the village of Inveraray, which boasts an 18^th-century fairy tale castle, a 20^th century bell tower to memorialize the Clan Campbell, and the theme museum of Inveraray Gaol (that’s Jail in American English). Its beautiful loch-side location on Loch Fyne, touristy attractions, and excellent shopping made Inveraray a worthwhile stop.