Over the Sea to---Skye, of course!!!

Early rising to leave beloved Lewis and Harris behind, such beauty on those islands; elemental beauty and poignant memories, but now, moving on. And it's over the sea to Skye! Sailing from Tarbert, Harris, the harbor was smooth as glass, and the crossing smooth, watching the Harris hills recede.

Near the north end of Skye is Dunvegan Castle, a beautiful setting as you can imagine with acres of gardens--Water Garden, Walled Garden, Round Garden, etc. It is home to the Fairy Flag which had been given by a fairy to an early laird  in the 7th or 8th c. It has protective powers and can be used three times; there is one more remaining. Yellow silk of mid-east origin, it is fragile, extremely delicate and framed, hanging in a drawing room or somesuch. I find it very romantic and charming, but photographs are not permitted, drat! Here is castle entrance and one garden:

Surprise for Bill and Mary! A pipe band from an exclusive Scotch College in Melbourne was on the 'back porch' of the castle!

Later in the town of Portree, we saw a pipe band of local young people, including several girls, great fun!

During the interlude between the bands, we saw a fair amount of Skye. It is quite different from the other places we've visited.

The rugged Cuillins which we will also see from the other side at Loch Coruisk in a day or two, when the rain stops. Ah, the Misty Isle indeed!