Search for the Big Ball of Yarn: Blair Castle and Bruar Falls

October 21, 2012

What a glorious day it was! It started out misty (foggy), but the mist burned off to reveal a perfect autumn day. The colors are at their peak. It seems that around every corner we say “Look at that!”

We had a nice breakfast here at Craigatin House. We were one of the last to get to breakfast!

Then off we went. We tried to see the Queen’s View, but the mist prevented that. We decided to head to Blair Castle to beat the crowds. On the way to the castle we passed through Killiecrankie. Now, come on. Wouldn’t you love to live in Killiecrankie? “Where do you live?” “Killiecrankie!"(said with a scowl), where’d ye think I’d be living!?” Bc and I did a whole routine while driving through Killiecrankie. It was quite funny and gave us a new way to be grouchy!

So, we drove the 5 miles to Blair Castle. This is a huge tourist event. This is “the ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl.” This castle was originally built in the 1200s, but subsequent Earls/Dukes added on. Some of the family lives in one part of it today. It has been amazingly restored. Again, we couldn’t take any pictures inside except for the ballroom. The current 12^th Duke lives in South Africa and comes back every April for the Highland Games.

We happened to arrive at Blair Castle when the bagpiper started. It was quite touching. Especially for bc.

We then headed up the road 5 more miles to the House of Bruar and the Falls of Bruar. (Pronounced Brewer.) Now, this is the “touristiest” place we have found on our entire trip. We wanted to walk to the falls, but it was nearly impossible to find the starting point. We finally asked the market place guy and he told us “It’s around to the right between the buildings then left.” There were many, many people/families shopping and dining. We found the secret trail and started to walk. Once again, the trees are at their peak and we were not disappointed. It was quite a hike. Most of the way we were the only ones on the track. At times it was slippery, muddy and steep. But we made it! Our knees were aching on the way down, but the scenery was so amazing.

We rewarded ourselves with a bowl of soup and a shared scone, oh and a glass of claret. We watched the people go by and marveled at the many shops. We did cruise through one shop, buying 3 cards. If you didn’t find what you were looking for in these shops, it isn’t to be found.

Then we headed back towards Pitlochery. We stopped at the Pass of Killiecrankie to see the soldier’s leap. Legend has it Mr. McBane leapt 18 feet over the river to get away from the Jacobites and was successful. This was a short walk, but our weary knees and feet were yelling! However, it was beautiful.