Outlander + Scotland

I won't say that I went to Scotland for the first time because of Outlander.

That's what the second trip was for. In the novels Scotland is character in itself: moody, aggressive, and beautiful. It's easy to see why Jamie and Clare spend so much time fighting for it.

I found Scotland on a little bit of a whim. I was planning my European Adventure in 2014 and I did something that I love doing. I pulled up Google maps, picked a corner of the world, in this case Europe, and starting playing around. I was already pretty obsessed with London at this point but decided that it was necessary to branch out and see some of the rest of Britain.

Once I settled on Edinburgh, I went down a deep hole of food blogs, historical background, and maps, oh, so many maps! When we got there I was so charmed by the city. We had delicious meals in local pubs, went on an amazing free walking tour, and just explored the city.

The second time I went I knew I had to go to the Highlands. That meant driving on the left side of the tiny mountain roads. I was up for the challenge - though I will admit to you guys that I did get a speeding ticket. They don't even use cops! Just the dreaded speed camera.I was so taken with how beautiful and unspoilt the Highlands were. We drove along Loch Lomond to A82 through Glencoe and up to Fort William. Then we continued along the A830 to Glenfinnan. I'd wanted to go all the way to the Isle of Skye, but it was a little too much for one weekend. Next time, though!We also went to Hopetoun House where they filmed a few of the Outlander episodes, because I couldn't pass up the chance to see a historic home.

Beyond Jamie and Claire, I'm excited for the Outlander Tea because I'm excited to share my love of Scotland. I'll be in the UK before June 16 and look forward to bringing back some goodies for my guests.