Say farewell to the old millennium in
a way that is special, magical, mysterious and, above
all, original. Greeting 2001 in a Scottish castle, sharing
a toast with the ghost of the old owner, steeped in an
environment charged with history can be an enchanting
way of entering the new era that is about to begin.
The possibilities that this destination offers us are
many and varied. In addition to an unforgettable trip
through the Highlands, trying the best whiskeys in the
world, and visiting some of the most attractive castles,
we can travel to Loch Ness and say hello to its most famous
resident, Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster.
The plan consists of selecting a castle from among the
several that are offered, attending the grand end-of-millennium
celebration in it, and taking advantage of the trip by
visiting other interesting fortresses.
HOW TO GET THERE
International flights to Glasgow, Edinburgh and London.
British Airways offers regular service from London to
Scotland. http://www.britishairways.com
Tel.: (44) 191 490 79 01
CASTLES OF INTEREST
Dunnottar Castle
The name of this castle derives from the Scottish word
'Dun o tir,' which means "fortified" in the Highlands.
During the 5th century, Saint Ninian built a chapel in
this place. The chronicles of Ulster mention the castle
in 681; in 900, King Donald II fell in battle against
the Vikings in Dunnottar; King Aethelstan of Wessex is
mentioned in 934.
This castle was a major player in Scotland's history of
struggle against English domination, conquered by the
English in 1297 and then retaken by Scotland. It finally
became English property during the reign of King Edward
III.
Ettlescreig Castle
The inhabitants around St. Cyrus have fantastic stories
to tell about this castle.
It appears in the form of Gothic ruins in the mists, separated
from the world, as if it were the perfect set for a Scottish
version of the film Dracula.
Glamis Castle
Favorite place of Saint Fergus, who sought access to its
walls from the Irish lands. King Malcolm II of Scotland
died here in 1034. Up until the 18th century, its walls
and towers had to be defended many times.
Many legends tell of Glamis and the secrets enclosed by
its old walls. It is said that one of the lords of Glamis,
the "Tiger," played a hand of cards with the devil on
one of his estates, and for that reason the residence
was walled in more than 300 years ago.
It is famous for its renowned scenery, since it is the perfect
spot for the Shakespeare tragedy "Macbeth," and because
the Queen Mother of England spent part of her childhood
here.
Balmoral Castle
Without doubt, this castle is the most recognized castle
in the world, because it was purchased by Queen Victoria
and Prince Albert in 1852. It is the official residence
of the British Royal Family in Scotland.