Steep slopes in Edinburgh and high kicks in Pitlochry

I'm afraid I've fallen a day behind on posting, so this post is about Monday, June 24th (I'll catch-up tomorrow). Yesterday, we took the train to the capital city of Edinburgh. Called the "Athens of the North", Edinburgh is full of knowledge and personality, with statues and monuments paying homage to the great Scottish heroes, poets and philosophers.
As we pursued our destination, I was literally climbing a mountain in Sperry's, and let me tell you they slip and slide on cobblestone! But the trek was worth it: Edinburgh Castle stood mighty atop the mountain overlooking the city.

Edinburgh Castle's WWI Memorial

We approached the threshold and were shocked by the huge crowds: there were thousands of people on a Monday morning. Our first stop was at the oldest structure, St. Margaret's Chapel; obviously, we felt very fond of the chapel since we have our very own Margaret. We met more obnoxious crowds at the Scottish Crown Jewels: they were gorgeous and spectacular, but we only got to view them for about a minute. My family and I visited the rest of the highlights including the Great Hall, the daily cannon-firing and my favorite stop, the WWI Memorial.

Gladstone's Land on the Royal Mile

We left Edinburgh Castle and explored the Royal Mile: a stretch of street outside the castle that is very historic and touristy. But the real gem of our exploration of the Royal Mile was off the beaten path -- we stumbled upon Gladstone's Land, a preserved historic townhouse that gives visitors an exhibition of life in the 17th century. It was extremely interesting and without a large crowd!

That evening, we returned to Pitlochry for the Vale of Atholl Pipe Band's Highland Night. Held every Monday night during the summer on a local rugby field, Highland Night boasts local, authentic Scottish performers such as bagpipers, folk signers and some adorable little dancers. It is completely targeted for tourists, however it is just as charming and heartwarming as the whole town of Pitlochry has treated us.

Thanks and gig 'em,

Rachel