Highlands and History

Traditional Scotland came alive for a group of 22 Northwestern alumni and fellow passengers on a 10-day trip that included travels to the rugged western highlands of Oban and to the history-rich Stirling region. Despite Scotland's famous rain and fog, passengers enjoyed excursions that included the country's historic castles and spectacular isles.

The trip began in western Scotland with a spirited Scottish dance performance and a presentation by an expert bagpiper at the Oban Caledonian Hotel in Oban. The next morning passengers rode a ferry to the Isle of Mull, where they enjoyed a lecture on the isle's history and geography and discovered Duart Castle.

Travelers were treated to a presentation on men's traditional tartan plaid clothing in Oban. Some in the group toured Oban Distillery, one of Scotland's oldest sources of single malt scotch whiskey. After lunch, passengers traveled to the Isle of Seil, where they chatted with a lecturer who was raised on the island.

In Stirling the tour visited the site of the Battle of Bannockburn. In the capital, Edinburgh, travelers visited Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an extinct volcano.

An excursion to St. Andrews proved a highlight for the golf aficionados, who strolled the Old Course.

Following their graduation ceremony passengers tried a gourmet version of the traditional Scottish dish haggis. Many in the group left Scotland with a new appreciation for pub fare, such as fish and chips.

Early the next morning passengers made their way to the airport but not before saying one final "Slàinte" to their fellow Northwestern travelers.

— Elizabeth Henley (WCAS09)