We were a little sad to have left Monifieth and its stunning beach but we knew that Scotland was going to offer up so many magnificent places, so there was little point in hanging around.

On our route northwards we came across a sign for Dunnotar Castle (www.dunnottarcastle.co.uk). However, as we arrived the mist had fallen and the drizzle had returned. As we donned our waterproof layers we spotted a couple in full wedding outfits plucking up the courage to venture away from their car. We were fascinated as we were in full hiking gear, and they were in a white wedding dress and kilt. ~Ten we noticed that they were being accompanied by a piper and a photographer. It was obvious that they were here to use the backdrop of the castle ruins for their wedding pictures. It was awful to see, as there is no way they were going to get any useful pictures for their album.

Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven, Scotland

The silver lining, well for us anyway, is that, as we walked around the ruins and grounds, we could hear the haunting notes of the piper through the thick mist. It gave it so much atmosphere. That together with the thick sea mist, and the waves crashing against the foot of the rocks made this a really special day. We could hardly see a thing, but felt that it somehow added to the experience.

Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven, Scotland

Stonehaven itself was less of a treat, but functional for when we needed supplies to continue on our adventure.