Tag Archives: bloganuary

Climbing for the Top Culross view

While walking Culross village square, I spotted a seat and people walking on a hill behind me. Well you know that was going to be my next circuit!

There! Found the stairs to go up. It was beside the palace and just like that I started the ascend.

After locating the stairs, I built up a rhythm, stopping frequently to take in the views. Who am I kidding? Stopping frequently to catch my breath while taking in the views LOL!

I climbed a lot of stairs

More stairs. More of a view.

More stairs. More of that view!

Almost there…..

Made it to the top!

What a view!

A wonderful panoramic view of this coastal village.

It was definitely worth the climb.

Now where is that seat for my coffee?

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Exploring Culross Village

Again, I love exploring! So as I approached Culross village, I was filled with all kinds of anticipation.

What a quaint and pretty village!

I read that originally, Culross served as a port city on the Firth of Forth and is believed to have been founded by Saint Serf during the 6th century. These are a few pics I took of the Village Square:

The most prominent building was Culross Palace. Culross Palace is a late 16th – early 17th century merchant’s house. You cannot miss it! It is a striking amber colour. Unfortunately, it was closed so I had to admire it outside its iron gate.

It is definitely worth a return visit. It is like time has stopped here. Almost a time capsule. However, the large “Outlander” poster in the village square reminded me what century I was in. Apparently, the village was used as a set for the successful series.

Well, I am marking the village down for a Spring visit. The village must look amazing in Spring.

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Spring Nesting?

Is there such a thing?

Yes, that is what I said, “Spring Nesting”.

It is not a total random thought. In Edinburgh, I am noticing a lot of preparations, repairs and essentially busy work in preparation for Spring. To my eyes, it resembles nesting. So please let me know if there is such a term.

Regardless, it is a pleasant sight. This store on Easter Road has literally put Spring on the doorstep! How can you not stop and take a look.

Love it!

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Canada vs Scotland in January

Yesterday I was exploring yet again. After finding my seat for a well deserved coffee break, I received a WhatsApp message from my good friend in Canada. I immediately took the opportunity to use video mode to share my view! I know! It was mean. Anyway, as I was snapping pics on the return bus ride home, I asked that she send a photo of what it was like there. She did! Oh Canada!

As pretty as that snow looks, I do not miss it! That’s a lot of shovelling! My bus ride was welcomed by green hues and a lovely sunset

The ride to Dunfermline.

This is the difference between the two countries in January! Well at least compared to mid-Lothian and Fife!

© The Scottish Pearl 2022

Heriot Watt, Hermiston and Union Canal Winter Walk

I am still amazed by all the green space in Edinburgh. I swear, no matter where you go I am sure you will find a footpath, or trail, or walkway or park. I kid you not. Love it! I need to say that again: LOVE IT.

As a result, one of the things I like to do, particularly when I have been cooped up for a while but don’t want to venture too far, is to just hop on a bus and ride it to the end of its route. Today was one of those days. I jumped on to Bus Route 25 in the city centre which ends at Heriot-Watt University! I rode through the city centre, through Dalry until I reached my destination.

I was not disappointed. As we drove further from the centre, the scenery did not disappoint.

Approaching Heriot Watt University

As I arrived, I was thrilled to note a number of footpaths. How wonderful! It is so therapeutic. I decided to walk around the Loch on the university grounds.

Then I noted a couple of dog walkers.

Tip:

I have learned that when in doubt of what path to take just explore the paths dog walkers take! They always know the good paths. Again, I kid you not! Dogs like trees and freedom, and owners like views LOL! A winning formula!

So my path was decided. I continued on the Hermiston walk and then walked the path the dog walkers just left. Once again, I was so right! It was a lovely path. The path led me to the Union Canal pathway. 7 miles back to the centre and so my return trip and walk were determined.

A leisurely walk along the canal back to Edinburgh’s city centre.

I love exploring! What a wonderful Winter day’s walk.

© The Scottish Pearl 2022