May12

A wee jaunt to Scotland – Mallaig

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Saturday, 20-Sept-2026

At the end of the train ride was Mallaig – one of the more remote towns in Scotland, and definitely a lovely little break for a stretch and a spot of exploration.

Andrea and I didn’t have any major goals for Mallaig – we knew a few famous spots, but we were staying low-key and unhurried as best we could, enjoying the process and appreciating the salt air. We walked around, popped into pubs and shops as the desire found us, and petted every dog we could get our own greedy little paws on.

A nice hilltop above town gave us a lovely view, and a neat “witchcraft” store granted us a few entertaining laughs between us.

Just a lovely town, with lovely views and lovely sea breezes.

May11

A wee jaunt to Scotland – The Hogwarts Express

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Saturday, 20-Sept-2025


To be clear – we’d booked a trip on the Hogwarts Express. Which meant the fancy train from the movies.

In reality, we got a diesel engine pulling poorly washed, very normal looking, rail cars. We were… we were not happy. I believe someone stomped and said something about screaming. It may have been me. It may not have been. We’ll never know.

That being said, we made it through the disappointment and were able to enjoy the ride. Because let’s be honest – we’re inside the train, so what it looks like on the outside doesn’t impact our enjoyment of the views, right?

Right.

I mean, ignoring the dirty windows. And the mediocre “high tea” that we ordered.

…

Okay I may still be a little bitter.

But hey! Here’s some pretty views, and a gorgeous photo of Andrea! And we did get to spend the ride chatting with a really cool couple from Tasmania, so that was definitely a highlight.

May10

A wee jaunt to Scotland – Driving into the highlands

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Saturday, 20-Sept-2025


I do miss long road trips. There’s something so therapeutic about getting in a car, putting on some music, and just driving for a few hours… it leaves my mind open, and keeps the body busy so that open mind can chew on ideas and thoughts, making connections and picking up details that I would otherwise have missed.

This drive… this was even better.

The views! The company! The winding roads and the good music!

Just magical. Simply magical.