Scotland - Day 11 - And we continue on.....

This AM, as usual, we were up bright and early.  We had a bit of a drive to our first visit for the day, so we had a break along the way at which time we got to see more Highland Cattle.  This was not the first time we have seen them, but it was the first time I could get good photos.

Baby Cow

Mama Cow

Papa Cow

Highland cows were born and bred to deal with the extreme weather conditions of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.  They are very hardy but very gentle in nature.  There are still working herds throughout Scotland.  Highland cows have no layer of fat to keep them warm and instead have an extra coat which also maintains weatherproofing.  The coat is shed in spring in preparation for warmer weather.  The long fringe over their face keeps the driving wind and rain out of their eyes in winter and the sun and insects in the summer months.

Our first visit of the day was a Doune Castle which is better known to us Outlander fans as Castle Leoch, home of the Mackenzie Clan.  The castle was only used for outside shots during filming and the inside coutyard actually looks quite different as many details were added for the filming.  This site was also used in some filming of The Game of Thrones.

Doune Castle is a medieval stronghold near the village of Doune.  It is sited on a wooded bend where the Ardock Burn flows into the River Teith.  Recent research has shown that Doune Castle was originally built in the 13th century, then probably damaged in the Scottish Wars.  It was rebuilt in its present form in the 14th century  and has survived relatively unchanged and complete.

Currently there are essential repairs being carried out.  Over time water has crept between the stones and damaged walls.  Skilled members of the Monument Conservation Unit are carrying out repairs to the walls.

We had lunch with the Wood Family at their 15-century farm on the shores of Loch Ard.  We were greeted by the Laird himself along with his faithful sheepherding dog.  We were escorted into a 16th century grainery for lunch (the food was delicious) and entertained by the Laird and his son as we ate.  

The dog

The son

The Laird

Our Entertainment

Their 13th century barn

The view from their front yard

Their home

And that was the end of our touring for today.  We are now in Glasgow and tomorrow is our last day of touring.  This has been a fantastic trip....but I am ready for home!!!