Occasionally I have to do the tourist thing… and photograph the “hairy coo,” or its equivalent in other places. So, yes, this is a picture of a cow, or “coo” as they say Scotland. These cattle are apparently a unique breed found in Scotland. Several things distinguish them: that long fur, the ability to thrive in very cold climates, and the horns found on both males and females. The Scots seem to be quite proud of them.
Continue reading Highland Hairy Coo
This photograph is an example of my policy of not knowing too much when I travel. It drives some people (hi, Patty!) crazy, but it does mean that I get to “discover” things before knowing that they are iconic. Almost two months after photographing this “random” impressive Scottish mountain I learned that it is well-known. The peak is Slioch — or “The Shield” — and a “munro,”* one of the peaks reaching over 3000′. I read that there is a well-known climbing route to its summit. Apparently, photographs of the peak have been used to represent this area of northern Scotland.
Continue reading Snow-capped Slioch
Somewhere in northwest Scotland, between Shieldag and Applecross, we paused on our drive through this broad valley. It was surprisingly cold — there was new snow on peaks on either side — and rain showers passed across the landscape. Nearby was what appeared to be an old road, now marked as a foot trail, heading off into the valley — the sort of trail that makes you aware that there are places more remote than where you stand.
Continue reading Trail, Highlands Valley
When I encounter a new landscape I virtually always start comparing it to other landscapes with which I’m familiar. I think this is my way of trying to make sense of unfamiliar spaces. Some of the vast, open spaces of northern Scotland reminded me, at times, of parts of the American Southwest or the wilderness of Alaska. I think this is a combination of the very long views, the lack of large vegetation, and the huge valleys.
Continue reading Valley and HIlls