Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster. The myth, the legend, the mystery, Scotland's most elusive celebrity and on this day I was going to find her. The legend of Nessie took off in 1933 when a couple reported seeing a large animal in the loch. The most famous image is the 1934 “Surgeon’s Photograph,” the one that shows a long neck rising out of the water. However, this photograph was later revealed to be a hoax - no way - we must believe! Scotland's other famous and much loved "product" is of course whisky and that could be the reason for so many sightings over the years. Ever wondered if it's whisky and whiskey? Both are correct. Whisky reflects the original Scots and Gaelic word ‘Uisge beatha’, meaning Water of Life. Irish immigration to America saw an "e" added, so in American it's ‘whiskey.’
Back to Nessie, I have questions. Why do we call "her" a monster? Is it believed she eats people? Sinks boats with a flap of her tail? Preys on swimmers (does anyone swim here?) or fishermen? I think poor Nessie has gotten a bad reputation for no reason whatsoever. Also, why do we assume Nessie is a female? Obviously the more intelligent of the species, having survived many years predominantly undetected, so lets assume her gender is correct. Although if the species is to continue, a Mr Nessie is going to be required. Or such a mythical creature probably doesn't need a male (you go girl, neither do I) - immaculate conception being the way to go.
Anyway, I decided that a 12 hour bus trip up to the Scottish Highlands was a good way to spend a day. The night before had been really windy with a few showers, but the day dawned dry so 7am I set off to find the bus and by 7.45am we were on our way to the Scottish Highlands.
Along the way we had a stop at a place to buy souvenirs, coffee and use the loo. Unfortunately the storm meant no coffee or hot food available. Amazingly the cash registers and ATM cards were still working fine for the 1000's of items on offer. A couple of other stops for pics, including the 2, or was it 3 sisters.
We arrived at Inverness and took cover in a cafe/shop. Actually the chicken sandwich was surprisingly good as was the coffee. A quick stroll around where Nessie souvenirs were everywhere and it was time to board the good ship Spirit of Loch Ness. I even brought snacks, because I assumed the monster might appreciate a gesture of goodwill. Who doesn’t like a shortbread biscuit?
First mate Gilligan was funny and gave us an informative chat on Loch Ness and of course the beloved monster that lives below the murky surface. Unfortunately no sightseeing were made on the day. Not even a slight ripple on the water. Oh I tried whisky on the boat - still not a lover. Also tried whisky ice-cream and nope that didn't do it for me either.
Back in Edinburgh, it was a 20 minute walk back to the hotel and an early night. The Highlands are beautiful. Maybe next time I'll be go in the warmer weather, although knowing the infamous Scottish weather, it could be just as cold and wet in August. 😁
That night I dreamed that just as I had accepted defeat, I heard a splash behind me. I turned around - and there she was. Nessie herself. Towering. Majestic. Ancient. She looked me dead in the eye… and stole my chicken sandwich. Then she sank back into the loch, leaving only crumbs and a faint smell of wet dinosaur.
I didn’t get a photo. I didn’t get proof. But I did get mugged by a mythical creature, which honestly feels like a very authentic Scottish experience.
Nessie, I believe in you. 🦕
Add comment
Comments