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Taking Vacations In The Scottish Highlands
By Karl Fraser | October 22, 2009
Over on the west side of Scotland, on the very north west fringe of Europe, you will find the dramatic Scottish Highlands. The reason this part of the world is so dramatic is the compound effect of massive geological shifts and the actions of glaciers, weather and man. Staggering mountain scenes are brought to a stunning climax when the sun sets, when the sky can become all manner of shades of reds, yellows and purples. These factors are just some of the many reasons why the area is such a popular vacation destination. One of the busiest towns in the Highlands is Fort William which could be described as the area’s outdoor capital.
Arriving at Fort William you will be forgiven for thinking it is a thoroughly modern town. Unfortunately the town was extensively remodeled from the middle of the last century and the town’s seafront was replaced by the road you most probably drove along to get there. Thankfully many older buildings survive which add some atmosphere to the busy High Street. Adding to the drama is the tallest mountain (or Munro) in the British Isles, Ben Nevis, which can be seen, from almost anywhere, looking down upon this busy little town.
Many people arrive at Fort William to admire the view of Ben Nevis and attempt to reach the summit. One of the things you should know about this Munro is that one route is pretty easy on foot compared to the other which should only be tackled by experienced mountain climbers. Please ensure that you make sure that you are dressed for all weathers as it is likely you will see them all and, even at the height of summer, snow is not unusual. Ben Nevis sees more deaths a year than Mount Everest.
If you are not the type to go climbing mountains then maybe you will appreciate the more leisurely way in which to see the finest sights of the area, by taking a ride on a steam train from Fort William to Mallaig. The West Highland Railway is said to be the finest most beautiful train journey in the United Kingdom.
Riding the Jacobite steam train will be a real thrill for any fan of the Harry Potter series of movies as they will know the Jacobite better as Hogwarts’ Express (the steam train which features in many of the films). The highlight of their train journey will be the Glenfinnan Aqueduct which is becoming known as “Harry Potter Bridge”.
The Glenfinnan Monument is another view for which you should keep your eye out for. Built in 1815 the monument is a memorial to the cause of the Jacobites, those who fought and died in the 1745 Jacobite rebellion and the raising of the standard by Bonnie Prince Charlie which marked the start of the conflict.
When you reach the halfway point of the journey, at Glenfinnan Railway Station you will be given a 20 minute break during which you can take in the scenery, visit the Station Museum or enjoy the gorgeous homemade food available in the old dining car at the station.
You should really make a day of your ride on the Jacobite, leaving fort William in the morning it returns from Mallaig in the late afternoon/early evening and you will enjoy every minute of this most beautiful train journey in the United Kingdom.
Looking to find the best deal on hotels in Fort William, then visit Karl Fraser’s site to find the most comprehensive listings of Fort William Hotels for you.
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