This Christmas the Monkey and I chose a weekend trip to the Highlands instead of exchanging gifts. We found an itison voucher for the Isles of Glencoe Hotel and took the opportunity to explore Scotland while we’re here.

^ the view from breakfast

It was too cold and drizzly to do any real mountain walks, so we took a flatter, hour-long journey to the Clachaig Inn, one of Monkey’s favourite pubs from a prior visit. I love using good food as an excuse for a trek.

On the way there, we spotted a pony in a pink blanket ^.

^ the Clachaig Inn

^ well-earned festive drinks and mince pies

We dream of mountains, draw them in crayon, yearn to recreate the memories we hold in pictures, but nothing compares to being dwarfed by their regal presence live, in person.

P.S. if you’re wanderlust-ing, here are some Kate Spade-Inspired packing lists.