Pearls n boots

I have seen a couple of news stories in the last week or so on The Loch Ness Monster. Affectionately she is known as Nessie. Nessie is known to spend her time in the Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands Region. It is apparently Nessie hunting season; that time of year when people from the world arrive with camera in hand. Looking for the elusive Grand Dame.

I just have to say it. There is no way she is a monster. She has been hanging out in Scotland since the 7th century. We have a few grainy pictures (possibly as fake as the one above) and accounts of people seeing her. If she was really the monster the world wants to paint her as you would need more than a camera when hunting her.

I like to think of her as a mischievous spirit. That cares for the Loch Ness, the River Ness and Inverness more generally. She has lived peacefully in the Loch and occasionally likes to come out to play. Have a photo shoot or two. Don’t be misled by her mischievousness. She is smart and cunning and will only be seen when she wants to be. After all, you have to be smart and cunning to survive the Scottish Highlands for even a brief period. She has done it for over a thousand years.

While you are there visiting Nessie; take the time to travel Scotland and the areas around the Loch. I understand the area is filled with history. Urquhart Castle sits on the bank of the Loch and is opened all year for tours. The castle has great views of the Loch and maybe if you are lucky Nessie herself. There are also many opportunities for the outdoorsman among us to convene with nature. Set sail on the Loch. Don’t worry I do not believe that Nessie is the type to tip your boat. The towns around the Loch and in the Highlands provide many opportunities to dine and shop. Pubs and distilleries allow you to taste a little Scotch Whisky in the place it is made.

I have not yet had the opportunity to travel to Scotland. When the opportunity to visit the Highlands arises will take it. Hopefully, I will get my own Nessie sighting to share with the world.-R.S.