This weekend it was time to go on a little exploration of the local sights. This is now our 3rd week in Edinburgh together and since we arrived we had planned to climb Arthur's Seat. According to Wikipedia this hill in the centre of Edinburgh is an ancient volcano.
After taking the bus we walked our way to the trailhead up this little peak. We were blessed with perfect crisp winter weather. Even the walk there from downtown was already a treat. All you need to do is keep your eyes open for the surroundings, there's beauty everywhere:
Along the route to the trail we passed Holyrood palace, which is the principle recidence in Scotland for many years. It was fenced off by this beautiful iron fence. The shear detail is amazing:
The hike up Arthur's Seat is quite doable and well maintained. Despite of the many people on the trail it was quite relaxing. The view over the city is calming and gives peace of mind. Here some shot of our journey up:
The views are truly amazing. You can see the city, the hills, and the sea all from one spot. Here's a view on Edinburgh Castle:
After we enjoyed the summit and it's views for a while we walked down on the south east side toward a little community whith it's local pub called the Sheeps Heid. On our way down, still more beauty to observe:
After a good solid lunch at the pub we took the bus back to town. On our way we noticed a nice bookstore, we decided to go in and explore. One of the nicest bookstores I've visited in my life. Many many titles, signed editions and much more! Here's some impressions of it:
Literally books on every wall, floor to ceiling! While in there, I couldn't resist and got myself a copy of Walden by Henry David Thoreau. A book that I wanted to read already for a while.
After the bookstore we went home for some nice home cooked meal! All in all a successful day of exploring on multiple levels!
If you are ever in Edinburgh and have some time to kill both the bookstore (Topping & Company Booksellers) and Arthur's Seat are well recommended!
Happy traveling!