Steve The Wandering Aussie

2023.05.03
The red sandstone of the Abby ruin towers over the city of Arbroth, and was calling these two wide-eyed travelers to come gawk at its ancient masonry.
We finally left our home base at around midday for the long drive to Aberdeen. About an hour and a half. Big trip. We did take the longer back roads to get the best of country and coastal views.
We crossed the bridge at the Firth of Tay into the city of Dundee then went north and east toward Arbroth where we had been reliably informed that we had to purchase the World Famous Arbroth Smokie. We had no idea what this was so gullibly did just that. It’s smoked haddock. It’s in a vacuum sealed package. And it stinks. Wow it stinks. We haven’t opened it yet.
The Arbroth Abby is a must see – if you’re into ruins – with its crumbling red sandstone and ancient graveyard. It’s over 900 years old and was the base location of the ‘FREEDOM’ scream made popular by Mel Gibson. Preservation works are ongoing, limiting the access to most of the stonework. Still a feast for the eyes.
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Further north we stopped at Dunnottar Castle on the coast of the North Sea. The smell of decaying seaweed, bright sunshine, daffodils and bluebells everywhere and this massive castle ruin. What a place to find just driving by.
We love serendipitously finding these places. Oh, And it was cold. 6 degrees and a frozen wind. Just in case you had any doubts.
We stayed at an Airbnb on a farm for the night and we gave them five stars. Warm (YES!) and comfortable.
I trust all are well.
If you want to keep getting these or you want me to stop, please let me know.
Cheers
Steve