Well, yesterday we were in Houston at the International Quilt Festival….today we are in Scotland riding on the Jacobite Steam Train, affectionately known as the Hogwart’s Express!!
Our day started with a 2-hour drive from our lodge in Dundoon to Fort William. Of course, the first thing we did was to take a selfie in front of the engine….
…having to maneuver between all of the Hogwart’s robe wearing passengers!!
Our host had purchased First Class tickets for us….
..which meant we were at a table with an unknown couple. Jen and Al arrived a few minutes after us, and as Jen jumped out of the train to clear the water off of the window…..
….we knew that we were going to have a great trip with them!!
As it ended up, they were on their honeymoon, having just married on the Balmoral Castle property in the Highlands. Champagne and chocolates were waiting for them, and they happily shared as we toasted to the happy couple.
The scenery from the train was spectacular…..
…..with the Lochs and Highlands always visible….
I was completely blown away with this image of the clouds reflected in the water….
Then we came to the Glenfinnan Viaduct….
This was what we had all been waiting for, remembering this scene from “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets”….
But, the surprising part was seeing HUNDREDS of onlookers waiting on the hillside to photograph and wave at the train!
We all waved back like royalty!!
Two hours after leaving Fort William, we arrived in the town of Mallaig, and enjoyed an appetizing lunch at the “Tea Garden Cafe”…..
And, of course, I found a quilt design in the cafe hall…..
After strolling around the town (and purchasing a few souvenirs), we boarded the train for the return journey.
And, once again, here were the people to greet us as we steamed over the viaduct…..
It is fun to enlarge the photo and see the smiles on their faces as they enjoy the moment!!
The train slowed in one village so we could all wave to this gentleman who meets the train EVERY day……
It was a truly enjoyable day, spending time with our new friends, seeing the excitement on the faces of everyone on board, both children and adults, and taking in the stunning Scottish countryside!
If you are ever in Scotland, THIS should be on your “DON’T MISS” list!!
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Michael and I love to travel and see new parts of the world and then I love to take those memories and turn them into quilts!!! I hope that you enjoy traveling along with us!!
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