On Saturday morning we enjoyed breakfast at the Gordon House and bid our hosts farewell to go in search of the other side of my heritage. The Brodie Castle stands near Forres and is now part of the National Trust of Scotland. This was really the inspiration for our road trip as we had long wanted to visit, especially after Steve's aunt Sandy and uncle John visited a few years ago and have been urging us to go since.
The Brodie Castle was built in the mid-1500's and was partially burned in the 1600's by Lord Lewis Gordon when he, along with the Marquess of Montrose, attacked and pillaged the estate. The castle came through pretty well, however. I wish I could show the inside as it was so beautiful but no pictures allowed. One of the most interesting parts was the dining room, which was enormous and set up as it would have been for a formal dinner, all under an ornate carved wooden ceiling. The inhabitants of the castle adorn the walls, including two Alexander Brodies. The first Alexander Brodie of Brodie was responsible for much of the extravagant renovation in the 18th century turning the castle from a fortress for defense into a grand home. He also left much debt which took generations (and a couple of smart marriages) to pay off. The last Laird, Ninian Brodie, sold the estate to National Trust in 1978, but he remained living there and greeting guests until 2003.
The gardens are magnificent! I cannot get enough of the English and Scottish gardens. I'm taking lots of pictures for inspiration when I get back home! The castle grounds host many events, including a daffodil festival in the spring. Ian Brodie, 24th Laird of the castle, had a great love of the flowers, cultivating and hybridizing new varieties, and he is responsible for over 400 varieties of daffodils. The gardens at the castle and the daffodil varieties are now part of the National Collection.
There was a wedding just about to take place, and as we were leaving, a piper was playing to welcome the guests. So fun!
Our destination for the night was Inverness. We walked along the Loch Ness and across the bouncy pedestrian bridge. The views along the river were sensational. We spotted Nessie! (Or perhaps an otter...)
Battle of the selfies...
Up early to run along the quiet water before we start our next day. No one gets up early in Scotland, so it's a magical time to be out!
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Congrats!!!
A big check mark on your bucket list!
Well, we’re even now. We fit Brodie Castle in after talking to Steve the night before our private guide was to take us around Scotland and he changed our itinerary to go by Brodie. We were amazed and fell in love with the castle and the grounds. Thank you Steve and Kris for turning us on to this beautiful part of your heritage. Wish I could claim it but I guess Artemis Ward will have to do. Enjoy your remaining days abroad:)
Yay!!! A strong line of flower lovers! I think you guys tie on the selfie game.