Almost Pooping My Pants

So I didn't wake up until 2PM. And I only woke up because someone outside was practicing opera, complete with piano accompaniment, and a bachelorette party moved in to the hotel. At least, I'm assuming, since they were having a great time blowing whistles, shouting, and scream-singing along with Shout Out to My Ex by Little Mix. So I finally got up and left to hike up to Arthur's Seat, a large hill on the outskirts of the main city center.

I grabbed a banana from a local, tiny shop on the corner and started my walk to Holyrood Park. Arthur's Seat is next to Holyrood Palace, where the Queen stays when she comes to Scotland. My phone said the hike was a half hour but I am sad and out of shape so it took me a little longer. Still, it wasn't too bad and there were tons of tourists and locals alike. It was popular with a lot of joggers too (I can't imagine running up the hill though, jeez) and people walking their dogs.

It was really nice. One of my favorite things last time I was here was going out to the Highlands and experiencing the ruggedness. This reminded me of that. The trail was clear but otherwise unmarked. People could take whatever route they wanted, really, and once you neared the top, you basically just had to climb over rocks. It provided a beautiful view of Edinburgh and the gardens. It had that touch I felt last year, the wind and cold and rock.

View from the bottom

 This is from about halfway up

 There was an area just before the last hill to the top.

 From the top

An entrance into Holyrood Castle, where Mary Queen of Scots lived for a bit and the current Queen stays when in Scotland!

And then I promptly left because I desperately needed a bathroom.

Anyway, I walked back towards my hotel, grabbed dinner at TGI Friday's (I know, I know. Really American of me) which was apparently the place to go on a Saturday night because it was LOUD and crowded. But I also have forgotten to eat on this trip so the burger was more than welcome. My body hurts from so much walking and generally just no sleeping but tomorrow I'm tackling another hike (hopefully before 4 PM this time) and will hopefully get some writing done.

Happy travels!

Jasmine