Scotland: A Photo Journal

Taking the high road, Vivian Vassos has a highland fling

From Edinburgh to the banks of Loch Lomond and back, there’s something to be said about the rich diversity of Scotland. History, whisky, kilts, music and more whisky, it’s a laundry list of interests that allows the traveler to discover something new about a very ancient place. Following an itinerary with local experts and insider experiences set out by the globetrotting experts at Trafalgar, I was able to gather a selection of images that tell their own story. www.trafalgar.com; 1-800-387-2680; www.visitbritain.com

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Kinlochard: Song and history collide at Fergus and Gregor Wood’s Ledard Farms in the halls of Rob Roy, near Scotland’s Trossachs National Park

Kinlochard: Ledard Farm-raised rack of lamb – delicious!

A wee dram of spectacularly good whisky at Glengoyne Distillery, near the banks of Loch Lomond

Rolling out the barrels at Glengoyne Distillery

Roslin Chapel, the scene of the climax in Dan Brown’s The DaVinci Code

Just one of the many ornate stain-glass windows, at Roslin Chapel

Resplendent in traditional kilt, a Trafalgar local expert leading a tour at Edinburgh Castle

A cannon with a view of the city, from Edinburgh Castle

Arthur’s Seat, what looks like a small mountain in mid-city Edinburgh

A Canadian connection: a plaque commemorating the bestowing of the province of Nova Scotia on the Earl of Stirling, in 1625, on a wall surrounding Edinburgh Castle

At the Witchery Restaurant, it’s best to heed the menu’s warning. Note the small bit of buckshot placed next to the Roast Grouse description, found in the evening’s meal