“Rain Over Loch Leathan” — A rainy and cloudy day at Loch Leathan on the coast of hte Isle of Skye.
On the first full day of our recent visit to the Isle of Skye we headed up the island’s east coast, eventually reaching its tip before looping back. There are a number of worthy and well-known sites along this route, among them the famous “Old Man of Storr” formations. We planned to do the hike up to the feature, but as we arrived the heavens let loose — as they often do in Scotland — with very heavy rain and strong winds. We suited up and started the hike anyway.
“Eilean Donan Castle” — Eilean Donan Castle, on the inland sea near Isle of Skye
We have been traveling. A week ago we returned from a six-week visit to the British Isles — a couple of weeks in Scotland, a bit more than a week in Ireland, a one-week walk in the Cotswolds, and then some time in English cities. The photograph comes from near the start of the trip, just before we arrived on the Isle of Skye. We paused at the Eilean Donan Castle along the inland sea before crossing to the island. It was a welcome break on my first day of driving on left side of the road!
“Beco do Garcês” — A meeting of steep, narrow lanes in Alfama, Lisbon.
My recollection is that we came to this little wide spot among narrow Alfama lanes by following an interesting-looking stairway that led off to the side from a busier way. Our general plan was to climb up through Alfama to a viewpoint, and then to traverse over to the St. George Castle. But we were not in a hurry, and when we saw the side-route we decided to investigate.
“Alfama, Tagus River View” — Buildings of Alfama overlook the broad Tagus River, Lisbon
Lisbon, Portugal is a city of hills. (It is sometimes called the “City of Seven Hills.”) Deepening upon which direction you go, even short walks can involve some significant climbs. There’s a reason for the Elevador de Santa Justa, the famous elevator structure, and for cable cars or funiculars. A positive result of all of this climbing is that there are some spectacular views.
