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Many people have tried to tell me that Glenfinnan, Scotland
did not exist, that the producers of Highlander made up the name to suit
their needs for the stories. Those people were wrong, Glenfinnan Scotland
exists, and it truly is on the shores of Loch Shiel.
One of the draws to this beautiful place, is The Princes House
Hotel which is an individual hotel in the romantic setting of the West
Highlands and highly praised for their outstanding Cuisine and personal
attention. It was also coined as one of the best places for a romantic
getaway.
Historically, Glenfinnan has deep links with Bonnie Prince Charlie and
the Jacobites, it is where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in August
of 1745 to rally the Clans loyal to the Stuart cause at the start of the
Jacobite uprising, Glenfinnan Monument, set at the head of Loch Shiel, was
erected in 1815 by Alexander MacDonald of Glenaladale in tribute to the clansmen
who fought and died in the cause of Prince Charles Edward Stuart.
The boat scenes filmed in the original Highlander movie were filmed on
Loch
Shiel near Glenfinnan.
Glenfinnan Station Museum is a restored West Highland Line railway station
on the 'Iron Road' to the Isles from Fort William to Mallaig.
Tourists worldwide relish in the beauty of the old chalet-style buildings
in their picturesque setting while taking in the peaceful atmosphere of a
working, rural railway station with its own restored coaches in the sidings.
In the museum, one will learn about the impact and operation of the Mallaig
Extension constructed by 'Concrete Bob' McAlpine in the late 19th century,
and even work the original tablet instruments in the restored booking office.
(Sounds like fun to me.)
There is a changing exhibition of works by leading railway photographers,
and the souvenir shop is well stocked with items
asso ciated
with the West Highlands, including a wide selection of books and videos on
the local area, its heritage and railways. The Museum is open daily from
late May to end of September.
There is also the unique experience of the Glenfinnan Dining Car. In this
restored 1950s carriage, tourists are served lunches and cream teas during
the day and a restaurant menu in the evening. Favorite home-made specialities
include delicious bread, soups and ice creams. There's also a selection of
Scottish ales and whiskies to complement any occasion. This, like the
Princes House Hotel is highly recommended.
Near the dining car is a car in which people can sleep!
It is definitely a place where I would enjoy visiting, if only to breathe
in the fresh air and walk by the Loch.
TRACY |