Today we drove to Inverness from Edinburgh, a pleasant drive with grand castles sprinkled along the way and a lush landscape that helps one imagine kilted men fighting for freedom and a way of life. In Inverness, we toured the famous Urquhart Castle ruins along the shore of the Loch Ness and took a boat trip back to town. I swear I saw the Loch Ness Monster through the thickening fog -- my companion thinks it was one too many Scottish ales for me. We wander the streets of historic Inverness, enjoying the cool evening air and the sound of bagpipes floating over the town, and dining on classic fish and chips. Tomorrow, after visiting the historic battlegrounds, we're off to the Isle of Skye for more castle outings and some serious hiking.