Lossiemouth and Elgin

On our second day, we went to Lossiemouth. Mom was looking for some fresh fish. Apparently there were lots of options when Susan Kalman visited. We did not get the same greeting and there was nothing! So we has a walk and lunch by the beach instead. The beach was amazing. White sand and huge. And practically empty - just the way I like it. And there were enough dogs to get a left dog cuddles from random dogs, including an adorable greyhound. 

On the way back we passed through Elgin and I really wanted to see the cathedral ruins. The cathedral, also know as the 'Lantern of the North', is supposed to be one of the most beautiful in Scotland. And It is lovely. It was first built in 1224, though it had to be rebuilt a few times over the next few hundred years. 

One of the towers is still standing and you can go up. On each level, there are displays, mostly of stone carvings from the original build and from the 14th contrary. It was quite impressive how complete they still are 700 years later. 

The original glass of 1200s. 

How it would have looked.

Mom made it about half way up. Dad and I went to the top though 3/4 of the way up I realised she had the right idea. The stairs got smaller and steeper and more worn and it was a bit hairy at times, especially going back down.

freedom!

The view from the first floor balcony was lovely. It must have been so impressive when build. And it would have had a rose window (like that in Notre Dame) at the far end.

View from the first floor

We had a wonder around the grounds. I liked some of the graves. 

The best bit was prayer room which is still standing. There is a giant pillar in the centre and a gorgeous ceiling. Mom and I couldn't agree whether it was stone under wood. I still vote stone. It was very peaceful in there and really quiet. 

While mom and I sat waiting for dad (he loves taking photos in grave yards), I got some nice dramatic shots. 

After we finally corralled dad we headed back to Elgin. Dad and I have another swim and then we went to the site pub for dinner (thanks to the lack of fish). But it was tasty so we weren't too disappointed.