Editor’s note: ALISTAIR HORNE IS A SCOTTISH PHOTOGRAPHER based in Glasgow. While he’s a world traveler, it’s actually his images of his own homeland that caught my eye. Check out and enjoy these noteworthy images of the highlands of Scotland from the eyes of a local, as he leaves Glasglow to explore his own land.
Deer
The deer of Perth and Kinross are elusive. This probably protects the quiet, but very wild atmosphere about them and shrouds them in a bit of mystery. They move silently across the landscapes and are easily spooked, so if you find one, you have to drink it in without making a sound or moving a muscle. And then count yourself very lucky.
Camping, Isle of Skye
Camping on the Quiraing on the Isle of Skye, a picturesque island off the west coast of Scotland. As part of the Trotternish ridge, the Quiraing has been formed by a massive landslip which has created high cliffs, hidden plateaus, and pinnacles of rock. The dramatic Quiraing which is the largest landslip in Britain, extends to a width of two kilometres from the scarp slope to the coast. Some sections of the landslide are still active, as evidenced by the need for regular repairs the road to the summit. Without doubt this is my favourite place to camp, waking up for sunrise (if the sun actually comes out) here is something else.
The Quiraing
The road to the Quiraing rewards you with this view when you reach the summit. Being in the Quiraing always reminds me how small we really are in what is actually quite a huge world. It’s also a place where I can relax and get away from the busy city life due to the sheer silence and fairly small number of tourists who are able to find it.
Intermission
Old Man of Storr
The Old Man of Storr is Skye’s most famous landmark and is a very popular hike. This area of Skye has been used in many TV series and films, including Prometheus and the new Macbeth film. The jagged rocks and constant fog that comes from in land make this area very eerie, and a little haunting with the jagged rocks, harsh landscape, and only the sound of the wind.
Highland Cow
Highland Cows are the unofficial animal of Scotland. Harsh Scottish winters brought about their enticing, long, scraggly coat unique to this breed; flanked by long wide horns, they really are as sight up close. While quite friendly, you must approach with caution, and probably not at all if any babies are nearby. Still, there's something about their gaze, their hair in their eyes, and their stature that is enticing and alluring to passersby.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
Harry Potter's famous viaduct is a big draw for tourists in Scotland and it definitely lives up to expectations. The Jacobite steam train which runs from Fort William to Mallaig over this bridge was made famous by the Harry Potter film series, and gives you a great view of western Scotland and its varied landscape. The curve of the bridge, as well as the 21 arches is visually stunning. Having being built in the late 19th century, the bridge is still in good shape and rightfully draws many visitors still.
Neist Point
Neist Point on the west coast of Skye is one of my favourite spots on the island. The lighthouse with the eroded coastline seems too perfect to be true, but thankfully it isn't. Prepare yourself for windy conditions here. The lighthouse was built in 1900 and was a manned at the time, but isn’t nowadays. Being on the most westerly point of Skye means the wind is very blustery, but it adds to the dramatic atmosphere of the place.
Intermission
Seals
Dunvegan Castle is a small castle on the north of Skye and is known for its seal trips around the coast. Sighting a seal is nearly guaranteed; we probably saw over 100 on a single visit.
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle, built in the 13th century, is Scotland’s most photographed castle for good reason. The castle, like the Old Man of Storr and the Glenfinnan Viaduct, has been portrayed in many films. Still, for me, this castle and its surroundings encapsulates Scotland at it's finest.
Loch Etive
Loch Etive is a large loch located at the end of the Glen Etive road, in Glencoe. The road in is still largely quiet with tourists despite being featured in a few movies, but the single-track road is unique to drive, a throwback to another time.
Stars
Cairngorms National Park is one of the best spots in the country for nighttime views of the stars. It’s about a four hour drive to here from Glasgow, and it’s really nice to get away from the cities and see the Scottish countryside at its best. With low pollution levels and clear skies (if the weather cooperates) it's pretty well perfect.