A Scottish Journey: Three ways Caledonia calls to you
By Nujma Bond
Many years ago, I had a vivid dream. I was flying over some unique hilly and rocky terrain with patches of green in its midst. While I’d been fortunate to have traveled, I’d never seen this unique topography. When I arrived in Scotland for the first time, I was almost startled to see the mystery of my dream, seemingly solved. And I went on to find other sites that were just as unforgettable.
As my short series of stories about my Scottish journey comes to a close, I’d like to share some remaining thoughts from a trip that took me from Glasgow to Edinburgh and back again – and to several points in between. There are at least three magnetic ways this country calls to you; with its enigmatic history, artistic talents, and engaging contrasts. I can’t wait to return!
Enigmatic history
We know this land as Scotland, but over the years it has been Caledonia, Scotia, and Alba. The country’s far-reaching history is filled with clashes and victories, castles and royalty, tartans and shortbread, wild coastlines and pristine lakes. Whether you’re Scottish, part Scottish, or not Scottish at all - it’s difficult not to be drawn in. You can feel Scotland, as soon as you start to explore.
Driving from Stirling one day, I stopped in a town called Bonnyville where I enjoyed a great lunch of locally recommended fish and chips. I drove around the quaint town and learned of its mysterious history and of its nearby attractions such as The Kelpies in Falkirk – they represent the famed Clydesdale horses that helped power early Scotland. The massive statues also honour the mythology of the shape-shifting Kelpies’ spirits.
While touring Edinburgh Castle, and looking out upon the water beside cannons that once protected the historic site, I imagined the days when a citizen would not have been allowed anywhere near it. Today, people weave through its passageways daily. As I entered its lower levels into the dark room where the ancient Stone of Destiny rested, it was like being transported back to the reality of that time.
There is no doubt, Scotland’s history is truly enticing.
Artistic talents
Most everyone thinks of bagpipes when they think of Scotland, but it is only one of the incredible instruments that are part of its musical legacy. Celtic flair definitely permeates the air.
At the Celtic Connections music festival, I heard the bodhran drum being played for the first time and was taken by it immediately. Combined with the other instruments on stage, its sound was beguiling and meaningful, telling a story of its own. Scottish and Celtic voices rang out in distinctly clear and unparalleled tones which remained in my consciousness long after the show ended – and even to this day.
When I looked up at a domed roof in one of the archival libraries while researching family history, I saw intricate, appealing designs. Walking around Glasgow, modern building graffiti was so eye-catching that it turned heads.
In Edinburgh’s historic and stone-crafted buildings that have become shops, rows of colourful and intricately weaved scarves and capes filled the aisles. They are modern reflections of a distant past.
Scottish art extended to food, too, from well-presented sticky toffee pudding topped with a dollop of whipped cream to perfectly round tattie scones. And Scotland is the birthplace of shortbread. That alone is worth cheering about!
Engaging contrasts
Historic yet modern. Fast paced yet peaceful. Highlands and Lowlands. In many ways, Scotland was a land of opposites. That’s part of what makes it so attractive when visiting in person.
The Engineering feat that is the Falkirk Wheel stands in obvious contrast to the narrow, winding, hazardous, and at times, slightly spooky roads you must navigate to get there. Some of the country’s glorious castles tower over areas still filled with humble yet cozy looking homes. Modern shops crammed with goods fill blocks lined with buildings centuries old. Digital parking metres stand alongside cobblestone streets. You just can’t stop noticing the contrasts.
On a sunny day, you might be driving along a winding road in the country where there is peace and quiet, and witness undulating landscapes of green dotted by fluffy sheep. It’s a visual treat. On another day – or even the same day - you might approach a coastline like I did in Ayrshire, to find rugged cliffs, rocky shores and wild waves crested in white, with strong wind whipping at your face.
You don’t need Scottish genes in your DNA to feel compelled to visit Scotland. If you grew up or live in Canada, Scotland is inevitably a part of your spirit. So much of how Canada was settled, including many of the names it uses and traditions it holds, is rooted in a glimmering country far across the Atlantic.
There are certainly more than three ways that Scotland and its people call to you. It also grabs you because it’s welcoming, funny, and lively. If you visit you will feel its palpable spirt, and you will undoubtedly, like me, want to return one day.