We checked out of our B&B this morning, and headed out through the gorgeous Yorkshire Dales on our way north to Scotland. Traveling along the rolling hills, lined with stone fences and sheep grazing in the fields, felt like we were driving through a picture post card.
Just one glorious scene after another.
We made our way to the Aysgarth Falls visitor center as part of our adventure today. It is a hidden retreat accessible by narrow winding roads, making it even more delightful. Once we made the turn at the sign, we came across a large parking lot, visitor center with a tea room, and public bathrooms (always an advantage, particularly when gallivanting through unpopulated territory!)
We headed to the lower falls first, which was a very short distance from the parking lot.
I find the roar of the falls to be quite tranquil. The power of the water rushing through is actually quite amazing as the water upstream wasn't really moving fast. We were actually able to get relatively close to admire the beauty.
Moving on, we walked back to the parking lot, then in the opposite direction, across the road, to another path that led to the middle falls. Once again, the image before us could easily have been printed up on a post card.
Note the church steeple in the upper middle part of the photo. It really doesn't get much better than that!
But we continued along the trail to see what the Upper Falls might have to offer. This was a bit further, about half a mile further down the path, and was a tad more challenging regarding the terrain.
Along the way, this carved bench intrigued me.
And I was completely surprised to see a Haiku carved upon its back.
Ancient Pasture
filled with flowers, sheep & cattle
enrich the soil
Quite nice, although one might note that we saw few flowers and absolutely no sheep and cattle on this walk. But the sentiment would certainly apply to much of what we drove through so far today.
A little ways further, down some steps, around the corner, more steps, and there we were....at the Upper Falls.
Did I mention that it was amazing?
We've hiked to a few waterfalls in some of our gallivanting escapades, and I must admit that these were the easiest to access. The National Park has really gone out of their way to design the paths to make viewing these wonders less challenging than most. And I certainly did appreciate that!
We had quite a bit of distance to cover, so we headed north, and finally made it to the hotel around 4:15 pm.
We were greeted at the desk by Martin, who had a very thick Scottish brogue that brought back so many happy memories of our times here in this beautiful country. And he was so welcoming, which actually is pretty standard here in Scotland.
It didn't take long for Marty to learn that he can fish on the River Tweed that runs along the hotel property. When he mentioned to Martin that he didn't have any waders, Martin responded, "No worries....I'm sure we have a pair here that you can borrow that will fit you." Honestly! How awesome is that? And, you can be certain that Marty jumped on that offer!
But first, we decided to head up to the room with our bags. The staircase was definitely unique.
As was the plaque on the door.
This might just be nirvana for Marty.
The room was huge and had a lovely view of the river.
Which meant that I could sit by the window and relax, while keeping an eye on Mr. Yinzer Fisherman.
He was living his dream.
I decided to venture out for a bit to see if I could get a glimpse of Dryburgh Abbey, which is located right next door to the hotel. I couldn't get close to it, as there is a high stone wall separating the properties, but I did manage to capture a photo.
Beautiful!
We enjoyed a lovely dinner in the hotel restaurant, overlooking the Tweed. Marty did not catch any trout, but he did see plenty teasing him. So, he plans to get up early and try again in the morning. We only have one night here, so he might as well make the best of it, right?
Here's hoping I have some exciting developments to share tomorrow!
I'll keep you posted!
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