We spent a couple of days here on our way up to The Highlands and I can’t really say a whole lot about Scotland’s capital city because we didn’t spend a great deal of time in it aside from the high street….which we loved. Afterall, what’s not to love about cobbled streets, crusty pubs and bagpipers. Instead, for one of the days, we decided to book a Hairy Coo tour; a decision we didn’t regret. This “free” tour (you only have to tip and you should tip well) was a full day leaving The Deacons House Café in a bright orange mini-bus at 8:45am and returning at about 6:00pm. While I’m not usually a “tour” kind of gal, I’ll tell you why this one is worth your time and the destinations it covers.

 

  

First is the Forth Bridge and Queensferry Crossing for a photo opportunity. Next is the Wallace Monument for a short hike or free shuttle to the top and enough time to either tour the tower or get some great photographs. Then it’s past the famous Sterling Bridge and onwards to a photo opportunity at Sterling Castle (an actual tour through the castle would take too long and put a price tag on the tour). The next destination is a short stop on Loch Menteith for another photo opportunity and time for a stroll on the shore. Lunch is in the quaint town of Aberfoyle, where you have a great selection of places to eat. Then, after another photo opportunity at Three Lochs Peak, you get to the highlight of this tour…delivering snacks to the Hairy Coos which are Scotland’s own breed of cow. After that it’s a wonderful stroll along Loch Katrine, and finally a visit to Castle Doune of Monty Python fame. In between all of these stops, you are entertained by your humorous yet very knowledgeable tour guide with stories about Edinburgh and Scottish history as well as some lovely Scottish music. My only advice though is to book early (and maybe pack a few small snacks). The tours are small groups and fill up quickly. For all the info you need go to their website at http://www.thehairycoo.com/ and, if you go, tell Fiona the somewhat spirited hairy coo, that Carol said hello.