I Went On A Solo Female Van Life Trip In Scotland

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I went on a solo female van life trip in Scotland. Today I'll be taking a solo trip in Scotland's countryside and travelling by van and exploring an area of Scotland which is often bypassed by many as they set their sights on Scotland's highlands and islands.
Dumfries and Galloway is a beautiful part of Scotland and I spend a couple of days enjoying a Scotland road trip in a different part of the Galloway Forest Park, the UK's largest forest!
🍿 WATCH NEXT
GALLOWAY FOREST PARK: • I Stayed In The UK's L...
SHETLAND ISLANDS: • I Travelled The Shetla...
ORKNEY ISLANDS: • Travelling The Orkney ...
SCOTLAND'S WHISKY ISLAND: • Visiting The World's W...
SCOTLAND'S WILD ISLAND: • I Went To Scotland’s W...
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WHO AM I?
If we haven't met before... Hi, I'm Ruth 👋 and I recently bought a campervan to travel my home country of Scotland after living overseas for 12 years. I’ve hardly seen anything or been anywhere in Scotland and now is the time to change that!
P.S. Some of the links in this description are affiliate links that I get a kickback from.

[@ruthaisling]

Try out WILD for yourself and use the code RUTH2024 to get 20% discount off all products (limited time only) → UK: bit.ly/RUTHUK → USA: bit.ly/RUTHUS This was such a fun trip in southern Scotland, is this an area that you have visited before?

[@andrewmaccallum2367]

Absolutely fantastic

[@RAF1998-l3c]

You have truly inspired me, I’ve been wanting to buy a camper van and travel around Scotland, and discover my routes, my grandparents were from Fife, before they passed they told me to explore Scotland, but being busy working as a clinician in the nhs I barely get time off. Also as a single man thought that on my own it wouldn’t be much fun, but watching you has inspired me to do it on my own, so thank you, best wishes Benjamin McGregor

[@gazmasonik2411]

I visited Scotland in the 80s, we stayed in a bed n breakfast at a dumfries farm. 3 of us for £10 including a huge breakfast too big to eat! It's so beautiful! Good luck.

[@happytraveller8953]

Hey Mr. McGregor--I hear ya about being a busy clinician in the NHS; same here. Too many patients to see to take a proper 3 or 4-week vacation because I feel guilty, not to mention all the emails you have to sort through when you come back--almost not worth going away, is it?? So, I guess I have to content myself roaming vicariously through Ruth!! Good luck with your travels!!

[@RAF1998-l3c]

@@happytraveller8953 Hi There, agree with you, i find it hard to switch off, always worrying if I’ve missed an email, not followed something up etc. It’s very hard, I regret leaving the military, at least I travelled a lot more and had a lot more support. I shouldn’t moan really, I do like helping my patients and go above and beyond is rewarding. I might be able to sneak a week of annual leave before Xmas, and I’ve just bought my first VW camper. Thanks for you’re reply, best wishes

[@happytraveller8953]

@@RAF1998-l3c If you ever get to the Outer Hebrides--let me know!! I'll pour a cuppa and we can toast the NHS...ha ha.

[@FrankJCarver]

Empire biscuits used to be called German biscuits, but because of the war, they were named Empire biscuits.

[@rosemarymee]

That was the First World War. My granny still called them German biscuits- she refused to listen to British propaganda !

[@FrankJCarver]

@@rosemarymee My mother was about 8, around 1944, when she went into this cake shop. She asked for some German biscuits and the woman behind the counter said, very loudly, ''They are Empire biscuits''. ''How dare you call them German biscuits''. Like your grandmother, my mother always called them German biscuits.

[@georgec7899]

At Age 92 i drove this road 61 years ago whilst climbing in the western Highlands and there was only a couple of cottages.Part of the road was only 2 tracts and NO PASSING PLACES.Ruth thank you again for bring back very happy memories to a very elderly man with your films

[@ruthaisling]

I’m so pleased you’re enjoying the videos!

[@polyboroides2615]

I only discovered your channel today, Scotland is close to my heart living on the fringes of Dumfries. I have been hill walking for a number of years. I am drawn to the Border hills up between Cappercleuch and Tweedsmuir, lovely rolling hills.I travel into the Highlands each May and do a circuit by van that takes in many walks along the way. Thanks for sharing your adventures.

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks so much, it’s a lovely area!

[@EGO0808]

Woudl you believe that watching your videos has made us decide to visit Scotland in June of this year. And that is quite a trip for us, since we live in SE Asia in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia. Can’t wait to visit Scotland’s Whisky distilleries, forests, lochs and glens. Thanks for the inspiration, Ruth!

[@ruthaisling]

I’m so happy to hear that! I hope you have the most wonderful trip! ❤

[@Alice-zc6kw]

Don't forget your raincoats ;)

[@GusMac6129]

Watch out for the wild haggis, they make crocs seem domesticated.

[@terrywarner7049]

June 2025?

[@wtaylor6701]

Living in the North of England with a strong Scottish heritage, I've always loved Scotland, and the Highlands and the west coast are magical places for me. I don't normally comment on KZbin videos but finding your videos and seeing your trips has inspired me to get out and do some solo road trips myself, your videos are excellent and as someone has already said, you should be doing this professionally and getting paid by the Scottish tourist board! Looking forward to viewing more ❤

[@ruthaisling]

Awww, thank you so much! So glad to hear that and hope you have a wonderful time on your trips!

[@patrickwilcox5358]

Hi Ruth my wife and I camped at penpont and travelled around Dunfress.We found a forest called theA frorest which had a lot carved animals on or walk.Sadly my wife as died in the last month and would have enjoyed you vidoes.We both loved traveling around many parts of Scotland ,we live in the South of England near the windmills of the South downs at a village called Clayton ..The windmills are called Jack& Jill.Take care Ruth and thank you.

[@ruthaisling]

I know that forest, it’s very nice and I think it has good mountain biking. I’m sorry to hear the news of your wife. It’s nice you have special memories ❤️

[@honeychurchgipsy6]

@patrickwilcox5358 - so sorry to hear that your wife has died but your memories of your trips to Scotland, and of living in such a lovely part of the world, will keep you company. I know the Jack and Jill windmills up on the Southdowns' Way - I have walked the way both with my partner, and alone (apart from my dog) many years ago.

[@trygginoregon]

I am told that the naming of monkey shoulder whiskey comes from the workers in the distillery where they would shovel around the malt while roasting/drying. Heavy work and one gets strong shoulders! And yes the whiskey is very tasty!

[@ruthaisling]

What a great name for the whisky!

[@BobLouden-r9q]

A very nice drop.

[@geoffreymcdonnell9869]

Haha Monkeys Shoulder is an 'ok' whisky😅

[@tracyzehnder2902]

I went to Scotland when I was 28. I am 58 now. It was one of the best trips of my life and I am itching to go back. Your videos make me have a longing. I think Scotland is one the most beautiful countries on the planet earththank you Ruth for bringing your videos to us. You’re amazing! I wish you all the love and happiness and safety.

[@janetceniza8091]

#2 That was a wonderful story and I get to see some of my grandfather's country. Thank you for doing the walking for me. 💗

[@ruthaisling]

You are welcome, glad you could travel a little through the video!

[@andrewmaccallum2367]

BRILLIANT

[@playing_in_trafic]

Great video Ruth. Fantastic to see the walk around Loch Trool is open again. It was shut most of last year due to logging. One of my favourite places. Although having been hundreds of times I did not know about the White Cairn, I must visit that. Thanks for sharing. Atb Dave

[@ruthaisling]

Oh I didn’t know it was shut! It’s looking good now. I wasn’t aware about that tomb until I spotted it on the map, it’s definitely worth a visit!

[@hgjeitanger]

Never considered Scotland as a possible travel destination until I recently discovered your videos. Been to England a couple of times, but you've made me realize Scotland is entirely different and totally worth a visit. As a Norwegian I should probably have known better. 😅 Thanks for the amazing videos.

[@ruthaisling]

You will love Scotland and our weather!!

[@thegrambigg]

Absolutely amazing video again Ruth beautiful scenery all around Dumfries and Galloway , thanks for sharing 😊

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks so much for watching! Dumfries and Galloway is really lovely 😍

[@thegrambigg]

@@ruthaisling you are welcome I watch most of your videos they are really great, I live in Dumfries and it’s such a beautiful place 😍

[@d.reames]

South Carolinian here. Really enjoying your videos of not-so-typical Scottish destinations. Your enthusiasm and quest for knowledge are inspiring. Also appreciate the heads-up for the music of Niteworks. I'm a big Julie Fowlis fan and would love to see/hear them collaborate.

[@lesliewatts7537]

I think Scottish Tourism ought to be paying you a wage................ for your fantastic videos, a must watch for anyone visiting Scotland.

[@ruthaisling]

So glad you are enjoying them! Always appreciate your lovely comments, thank you! ❤️

[@peterclose9073]

Totally agree, you have a real talent for this. Well done.

[@blackbob3358]

Aye, ms Watts. She's rather fond of letting ya know where she is.

[@numanuma20]

Agree 100% You are so amazing and giving free guide on what to do in Scotland.

[@declanconway2903]

Great video again Ruth magnificent scenery

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks Declan!

[@ercieyyy]

Hi Ruth, the pasta you made with wild garlic pesto was very nice to me and don't forget to chew a clove for avoiding garlicy smell after eating that meal. The area wasn't only natural gem also a historical site that was hosted to the wars between the troops and the memory of that soldier about the spider's web in the cave was incredible. Best regards from Turkey, take care :)

[@ruthaisling]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed the video!

[@PatrickFavey]

Your vidéos are absolutly Amazing. Thanks for share them . Landscapes are do beautifull. I would like do to visit this fabulous country. Thanks to you.

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks for watching and I’m glad to hear you like the videos! ❤️

[@MrStark110]

My nan was Scottish and i fondly remember visiting in 2001 at 11. Loved every second of it. Such a beautiful Country. I hope to visit again someday.

[@richH1625]

Lovely vlog. Glad the onboard whisky tasting combined with seasickness hasn't dulled your enthusiasm for a dram.

[@ruthaisling]

😂😂

[@catevanslife]

My granny and her maternal ancestors were all from D&G and I still have friends & family there. I ❤ D&G and last year had my 60th birthday celebrations there!

[@seancobb8853]

Ruth you’re amazing love watching your videos

[@GK49245]

Lovely scenes, and yummy foods. The Merrick climb was a fun adventure. Really enjoyed this video, one of your best. Thanks for sharing.

[@ruthaisling]

Thank you so much! ❤

[@larrygrimaldi1400]

I like that you show maps and precise prices for future travelers---and thank you for being always cheerful and enthusiastic!

[@ruthaisling]

Glad these things are helpful!

[@anniemac3075]

That was such a great video, I really felt like I was walking with you. Thank you so much for sharing it with us. ❤🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿❤

[@ruthaisling]

Glad you enjoyed it! ❤️

[@michelbackus]

So nice seeing you enjoying your own trip!

[@johnmcgonigal8533]

Nice to see you back on the road 👍

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks John, it was great to go on another trip!

[@hannahelizabeth5490]

Love your videos Ruth- I am l slowly working through all of them. I have been lucky enough to see an otter on the island of Arran - in Kildonan, it literally crossed the path in front of us- we couldn’t believe it!

[@adamlee3772]

Would love to see you over in Ireland. The Irish would make you very welcome and us Australians living here would happily buy you a pint of Guinness.

[@ruthaisling]

I’m half Irish so I’ll definitely film some videos over there sometime

[@moxiemckeldrey5486]

We also have a plant we harvest in the spring called Poke, it usually grows where new ground has been tilled. We pick the tender leaves & boil them, rinse ,then fry with egg in a cast iron skillet because it can poison you if you don't. The berries are used by the Cherokee to color cloth purple!

[@QuicknStraight]

Nice to hear Dumfries getting a mention! My maternal grandfather (He was born in born in Dumfries and played in goal for Queen of the South before becoming a vicar!) was Curate of St. John's, in Dumfries, in the 1930s, before becoming vicar at St. Gabriel's in Govan, Glasgow, where my mother was born. Yes, I am half Scottish! 😂 My grandmother, also born in Dumfries, used to make great bramble jelly. Passed the recipe down to my mother who also makes it still at age 85! One of your best videos!

[@ruthaisling]

Thank you for sharing that about your grandfather. And I love bramble jelly too!

[@michaelodonoghue9385]

Very enjoyable podcast, and seeing them from your perspective adds a touch of wonder to it! Another podcast showing off the beauty of Scotland, is called Scotlands Mountains with Murray Wilkie, Hiking and climbing many of the Munro’s, you may well have been close by some of these famous mountains. The scenic views and weather contrasts to be seen there, make it a place for the prepared and dedicated walkers.

[@Ronlawhouston]

In Texas a greeting we sometimes use is "Howdy." This is a contraction for "how do you do?" Cooking goes better with whiskey. I just adore shortbread. Unfortunately, it doesn't love me back. It makes me fat. I enjoy your videos. You have such energy and enthusiasm for your subject.

[@JohnSmith-uy7sv]

Because she is young and not old like you and me. 😞

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks so much for watching. Shortbread is very dangerous 😂

[@JohnSmith-uy7sv]

@@ruthaisling to your thighs???? 😂😂

[@happytraveller8953]

Holy Moly!! You just sealed the deal, girl!!! Niteworks rocks!!! Would love to touch base and pick your brain about how you got started in setting up your van. I'm a bit too old for tent-camping, but a van might do the trick...thanks for showcasing this beautiful country I now call home...

[@martinsmith9947]

My dad was born in Dumfries and Galloway but left before the war and never came back, marrying my English mum down South after demob. He never spoke much about his early life before he died, and I've never been - so thanks for this, it certainly is a beautiful part of the world which I will visit!

[@ruthaisling]

Glad you got to see some of the area your dad was from, do you know where in Galloway?

[@stevenbarlow3599]

Nice to watch this, as all i normally see is the road between Gretna and Cairnryan, beautiful as it is.

[@awpqq]

one day - soon - and I hope in my lifetime - Scotland WILL be independent!

[@420fpv8]

Respect for democracy my brother 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿💚

[@robs4988]

I hope not. We are already well on the way to being the world's wokest country. The last thing we need is more racist outbursts from the likes of a Humza Yousaf. It's too bad he made that racist anti white speech some time ago. If he made it now he could be prosecuted under his own obnoxious hate laws.

[@robtt997]

Please keep politics out of a travel video !

[@420fpv8]

@@robtt997😂😂 🚨comment police🚨 please stay positive in the comments section my bro 💚💚 negative language not welcome here

[@jackwatsonepic626]

I am from Teesside, the Northeast of England and I love going to your County , on holiday. I don't agree for 1 minute. What the english did to the Scottish centuries ago? But that's not who we are now. Anyway, enjoy this travel vlog.👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@tiffanyjames7150]

We say howdy or Hi in Texas. ❤️. I love the bagpipes, we have a festival nearby at Christmas that is based on Dickens ‘A Christmas Carol’ and they always have bagpipes and dancers performing traditional Scottish dance.

[@ruthaisling]

That's nice that you can experience such a significant part of the Scottish culture over in Texas, thank you for sharing, Tiffany!

[@desmondpage8690]

Great video 🎉🎉🎉

[@ruthaisling]

Thank you 🤗

[@lisefriesen8329]

Lovely hike, great day for you to be out. Thank you for taking us along!❤

[@ruthaisling]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@mossygreenlog]

Thanks! In any of your existing videos, have you covered anything related to renting and driving in Scotland. Think of getting a car so I can stop and go where I want.

[@ruthaisling]

No I haven’t! I maybe can try and do that in a future video! Thanks for the super thanks! ❤️

[@Nachtuil36]

Thanks for the music advise: Niteworks sound so great. Your favorite song, I know from other singers already : wonderful !

[@MIEJ4]

Hiya! 🤣 There are otter pools not far from Clatteringshaws as well. But the only place I’ve seen them are on beaches on Mull. Inspiring video, and great to see you so happy😁👍

[@ruthaisling]

Yes I think the raiders road might still be closed for the season. It’ll probably be open again soon

[@ianbarr5110]

Great video. Really enjoyed this.

[@numanuma20]

Keep up with the fantastic videos showcasing the beautiful world of Scotland.

[@ruthaisling]

Thank you so much, that’s very kind of you!

[@between2pines]

Haha, yes, I noticed ‘Hiya’ as well when I was walking the West Highland Way last year and I’m now saying it myself as well. Great video, thank you!!

[@MartiniHenry45]

Hi Ruth, really enjoying your videos! Myself & a friend climbed up Merrick back in 1979, we parked in St John's Town of Dalry & on the way we stayed in a mountain bothy, it was great apart from the midges, it was Summer & some lads from a nearby town joined us. They brought beer, a huge stove & the ingredients for a huge fry up which they shared with us, well me really as my friend insisted on having his Ellis Brigham mountain meals. Really enjoyed staying in the bothy with it's simplicity, I watched your bothy video, a much nicer experience in the Summer! Thanks very much for your videos, Steve

[@ruthaisling]

That sounds like a great experience and glad to hear you’ve hiked up the Merrick too! I’ll maybe try a bothy in the summer next time!

[@martindoug]

Thanks Ruth l thoroughly enjoyed your trip through Dumfries and Galloway. I've traveled the coast but not into the interior so l will revisit. Bramble jam, millionaire shortbread and empire biscuits are delicious particularly after a walk in the hills. There is a park in Glasgow that has an abundance of wild garlic which is so lush this time of year but l didn't realise you could use it for pesto. In Scotland are we so ignorant of nature's abundance around us. I must give it a try.

[@ruthaisling]

So glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks for watching! Good luck with your pesto!

[@moxiemckeldrey5486]

Your wild garlic looks like what we have in the Southern United States that we call Ramps. We harvest them in the spring. We used to have festivals BUT people started to over harvest & now we dont have the festivals BUT we can get permits from the UNITED STATES FOREST SERVICE USFS to harvest. We take the root part of the bulb & resow to start our own. The trick is to pick one leave one when picking in the wild.

[@ImperfectVegetarian]

Very life affirming. Thank you 😊

[@Annie4Always]

Outstanding! Wow! The Dumfries/Galloway Forest Area & Loch Trool is so beautiful. The view from the hillside looking down on the Loch was spectacular! Also, the wind on this hike really made this adventure even more wild & exciting! Hiking up the hillside to the top of the Merrick was also quite thrilling! Then, seeing the amazing view at the top was truly breathtaking! What a view! I am sure Old John would have loved that view as well! I can imagine him now, leaning on his stick, munching on his Oat Cakes & hummus, gazing in wonder at one of the bonniest views in Scotland. Aaaah! LOL. Along with that, your dinner looked delicious Ruth. Just mouth watering! Wild garlic? Who knew? I love garlic too, so I would really love to try this dish sometime. Mmmm! I'll just be sure not to kiss anyone after my dinner. Well maybe just my dog! He seems to love me no matter what! LOL. Even beyond all of that beauty, was the breathtaking view from under the carpet of the myriad of stars, twinkling in the dark night Sky! Spectacular! I'm sure Old John would have loved that too. Aye! 'Tis true! If only Old John had managed to hold on for just another couple of centuries or so, he could have also been marveling at those bright sparkling 'diamonds' in that magical night sky. And, who knows,, maybe even sharing in a wee 'monkey dram,' & some Bramble Crumpets. LOL Alas, though, 'twas not meant to be. Aye lassie!(I thought it was about that time again, to give 'Old John' another wee remembrance in appreciation of his legendary long life!) Although, I am sure you were entranced by all of this, even without Old John's company! Indeed! Who wouldn't? Well, Ruth this was a very unique & delightful experience! Thank you for sharing it with us! Especially in showcasing a lesser known, but very beautiful part of Scotland. Blessings to you Ruth!

[@ruthaisling]

Maybe Old John did climb the Merrick, it’s not too far from Wanlockhead. He might have had a wee day trip there back in the day when he had a day off from the mines! 😂

[@Annie4Always]

@@ruthaisling I believe Old John would have done just that! Spunkster that he was! LOL. Have a nice day Ruth!

[@McGroartyP]

Hi Ruth. If you're still struggling to spot otters, Strontian, 12 miles from Ardgour (Corran Ferry) is the only place I've seen one, although there is an otter hide at the Glenelg Ferry, Kylerhea, Skye.

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks so much for the recommendation!

[@garethleitner9547]

FYI, Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt scotch, which is a blend of single malts. Blended scotch, per se, contains grain spirits. I like Monkey Shoulder a lot.

[@michaelkobylko2969]

I only found your channel a few weeks ago and I was immediately impressed by how professional they feel. You could definitely front a travel documentary in my opinion! My only complain is all the delicious-looking baked goods that make me really want to give up on my weight-loss mission... But that's okay. Also, the pesto looked amazing, and I hope your experiences in France didn't put you off adventures in other parts of Europe. Would you consider trips to other parts of the UK and Ireland? Not that Scotland isn't enough, it's an amazing country.

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks for watching the videos Michael! Yes I’m half Irish and visit Ireland often but haven’t ever filmed anything there yet! Maybe soon!

[@markwalmsley8112]

That shortbread looks amazing, another brilliant video,I definitely need to go to Scotland again and do some walking

[@sunnyside9988]

Otters show in morning early morning and fish also in the evening before dusk. One of my favorite animals. I live in Florida we have them here if you ever come I'm happy to show you or tell you. As you were saying they come at dawn or dusk i was typing it😂😂😂

[@ruthaisling]

I just need to keep looking 👀

[@antonioamadeodeluca8088]

Ruth; and thank you too for this heart, you are very sweet and adventurer, you continued with this nice videos. good luck Tony

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks Tony!

[@hollysmith6840]

Welcome home Ruth! So glad you are back in Scotland. I am happy you did a video on Dumfries and Galloway as it is often overlooked. When we visit in May, I will have my eyes peeled for Ernie! He is becoming quite the star. Lol.

[@ruthaisling]

Hahaha might be on some trips in May! 😂

[@numanuma20]

Can we get a tour of your hometown? Also, check out Compass Box blended Scotch. Non chill filtered and non colored so you get the pure expression of the whisky. A lot of Scotch whisky is colored because people think a darker whisky is better and chilled filtered to make the whisky clear.

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks for the recommendation. This video is near my hometown. I won’t share exactly where I’m from online for safety reasons. Hope you can understand! 🙏

[@numanuma20]

@@ruthaislingOh yeah, I didn’t think about it and completely understand your reasoning. Safety first. Love the videos.

[@DavidBarker-ke2on]

Thanks once again Ruth for another fabulous Vlog.

[@ruthaisling]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@leslieelizabeth219]

Enjoying your Vlog. Making me homesick from Down Under. We say Hi 👋🏾 down here 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇦🇺I absolutely love history. Thank you😊

[@ruthaisling]

I’m so glad you’re enjoying the videos! Thank you for watching in Australia 🇦🇺

[@Cwgrlk8SanDiego]

Thanks!

[@ruthaisling]

Thank you!!

[@jeffreyskinner6281]

You had me at shortbread! And the the Monkey Shoulder too! Ruth, another great video. I started drinking whisky for our first Scotland trip in 2016. And spent a ton of money on the single malts. By accident I bought Suntory Toki, a blend and it was delicious. My son gifted me Monkey Shoulder and as you found out many blends are as good or better than the single malts, and cheaper too. Thanks for showcasing southern Scotland, my brother and I have added it to our 2025 trip...all the best!! (What a great laugh as you "milked the cow)

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks Jeffrey! Glad to hear you are enjoying the whiskies too!

[@Murman22]

This is to be spent on a single malt of your choice. Enjoy

[@ruthaisling]

Thank you so much! I’ll make sure to do that and it’ll be a peaty one! Cheers! 🥃

[@ValerieSmith-mg6cp]

Ruth I think you are so brave to go everywhere on your own x

[@rabcspaniel5679]

It is a real privilege to see otters in the wild. One evening I was angling and heard a small commotion on the opposite bank. Two Otters appeared rolling and tumbling with each other. They didn't clock me and kept going while I froze and observed. Kingfishers seemed more ordinary after that!

[@ruthaisling]

How fantastic! I’ll just keep looking 👀

[@nobuohanda8282]

My knowledge about Scotland is gaining from your KZbin video. It's amazing no one coming during your hiking. You could conquer all of beautiful scene by yourself. I'm happy to be able to see your relaxed journey. Keep going and have a good trip.

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks so much, glad to hesr you are learning more about Scotland!

[@annesoper911]

I really am enjoying your adventures and information about the history and landscape of Scotland. I am 77 and have traveled the world, camping when I was young.Now I prefer comfortable accommodations but watching you I feel as if I am hiking except I am warm and relaxed in my home.

[@ruthaisling]

I’m so pleased you are enjoying the channel!

[@nicholson392005]

Thank you very much for sharing your adventure back on Scottish soil, a lovely area Ruth ....just what I need before the return to work tomorrow ❤

[@ruthaisling]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@PatrickBijvoet]

Lovely vlog again. Beautiful sites. I am catching up since I discovered your channel. I recommended it to my sister

[@ruthaisling]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@moxiemckeldrey5486]

I make Bramble aka Black berry jelly. Our family calls it Black Gold because it is getting almost impossible to find the excellent bushes in cattle fields because farmers are selling off their land & developers move in. Good memories of picking berries as a child.

[@ruthaisling]

That sounds so sad to lose the brambles. The jelly is the best!!

[@johnclankie324]

Hi Ruth, lovely video, so much content! I’ve said before I always like to get north of Perth but how much I’ve missed. The walk round the loch is similar to Loch Muick but I’ve never heard of the battle there either. Soon as you mentioned the band I went looking on KZbin, again I’ve missed them as well. Check out another band from the Isle of Skye I have two of their CDs Shed Life by Sketch, they are wild👍 Well done on the climb as well, even a wee bit of snow on the summit. And you’ve got the touch the Trig Point great👍👍 Cheers Mike🥃👍👍

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks for the recommendation, will check them out!

[@pekkahuuhtanen]

Beautiful, amazing videos and so skillfully edited. I always get in a good mood watching these. Power and energy to you from far away in Finland ♥️

[@ruthaisling]

Thank you, glad you are enjoying the videos, that means a lot!

[@nisiunavoce1264]

Ruth, you are such a pleasure to listen to, I'm very grateful to have happened onto your channel. I got a hoot watching you on your Japanese friend's channel and was quite impressed with your command of the language. I've learned a fair amount more of Scotland from your travelogs and would love to travel there one day. BTW, I write hiya all the time, not sure why but I do.

[@ruthaisling]

I hope you enjoy the channel!

[@garylovattlovatt193]

Great watch Ruth. Thanks so much. 😊😊

[@ruthaisling]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@garylovattlovatt193]

@@ruthaisling very much. Never visited that area of Scotland. On my list now. Loved the history side of the vlog. Take care and look forward to the next installment x

[@philmbridges]

What a fantastic video with you so positive and bright! Glad to see you enjoying yourself and in such high spirits!

[@ruthaisling]

Thank you so much!

[@Murman22]

Ruth: You had me at " I am going to this store to pick up some local items" I love anything with short bread. I had to stop the video to regain my composure. "I am tasting this blend" you are so delightfully entertaining. What a physical workout. Love seeing your happy glow. Thank you and be safe.

[@lindao1327]

Great to see you in a beautiful part of Scotland. We visited there last year and it’s beautiful and such an atmospheric place. The Galloway Astronomy Centre does courses and events. We visited to collect a telescope as a gift for someone which the guy there ordered and was so helpful and knowledgable. We will be visiting the area again soon and plan to go to Kirkcudbright and surrounding area. The pasta looked great as well as all the other goodies! Well done on the hike.

[@ruthaisling]

Oh lovely, I’ll need to visit that center next time!

[@kellinomnom]

TY for the music recommend

[@ruthaisling]

You are welcome, hope you enjoy!

[@MargueriteHawkins]

Glad to see you chilled after the trip home in that dreadful storm on the ferry..This tour has been very watchable, beautiful landscapes and a charismatic tour guide.The pasta with the wild garlic looked delicious, also wild garlic scones is a great idea. Since i starting following you on your adventures, I have found myself eating so many more cakes and pastries , I had to pause the video to go and munch on a bakewell tart and a scone with wild blueberry jam !

[@ruthaisling]

That sounds delicious! thank you for watching.

[@delmiller4184]

Loved watching your excursions and look forward to the next.

[@ruthaisling]

Glad you like them! More to come.. thanks for watching.

[@stevemchugh1374]

I've been lucky enough to see otters a fair few times recently near where I live around Kenmare Bay, Ireland.....though naturally they only appeared when I was not deliberately going to a renowned spot to catch sight of them, as that never worked! Anyway Ruth, I hope you get lucky enough to catch them in situ one day too, they're wonderful to watch in their native terrain.

[@moxiemckeldrey5486]

I live in the Appalachian mountains between the Great Smokey Mountains & The Blue Ridge Parkway in the U.S.A We have soso many Scotch & Irish in this area along with German.

[@bkd9909]

Excellent video Ruth, I stay in Livingston now but I’m from Shetland originally and have seen otters many times, as others have said they are opportunists so will be around where there is readily available food, fish factories being a prime location, to see them out in the wilds is much more of a challenge. Love your channel, keep up the great work.

[@ruthaisling]

I hope to see an otter one day soon!,

[@victordebs4357]

Thanks for the Videos' Ruth!

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks Victor!

[@johnhowarth8822]

Thanks for showing us an often overlooked part of Scotland. I worked in Kilmarnock years ago and often returned south across that area.

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks for watching John! Glad you like the area too!

[@dennismathieson1140]

Great video Ruth thank you for all your local info as you went along.

[@ruthaisling]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@wendellmclearn7808]

So relaxing, so beautiful scenery, Hostess is Real,, thank you..

[@tombrown8281]

Thanks again Ruth great video just amazing 👍

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks for watching!

[@scott-qk8sm]

Very well done 👍 I'm In Alaska (Anchorage) but don't get out of the city much, so nice to see your Scottish wilderness. Have fun but stay alert and cautious out there 👍

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks, will do!

[@JOHN-e8y4e]

Nice one Ruth, what a blend, on the road with the campervan, hiking to historical sites, soaking in the beauty of Scotland, with your wonderful Scottish accent, love it.

[@ruthaisling]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!

[@paulbenson3441]

Such a lovely video Ruth, it's been many years since my wife and I went to Glentrool and walked through the forest. We were on a Duke of Edinburgh orienteering walk that took in some of the forest trails and a lot of the exposed high ground. It rained the whole day and we got wet through but we had plently of sandwiches with us and a thermos of something hot; can't remember what it was but it kept us going. It was an amazing day and when you're with other walkers with a lot of banter going on, it was a lot of fun despite the weather. We didn't get a clear view of the loch due to low cloud, but hopefully my wife and I will get back there some day and have another go. We did see Otters on Mull but it was hard to close to them. Orkney is a good place to see them but you'll still need a binoculars or a telephoto to get in close; and down wind. We're going back to Glasgow in October for a family wedding so we're hoping to visit a few of our favourite haunts while there. Top on the menu is a haggis supper, so miss it down here in Sheffield as chippies don't do haggis; oh they don't know what they're missing. The wild garlic pesto looked brilliant, but I think I would have had some grated mature cheese on it; just a personal thing.

[@ruthaisling]

What a great place to do Duke of Edinburgh! Hope you enjoy your haggis supper when you are back in Scotland!

[@janevalentine6391]

What a very nice video this was, Ruth. The sites you took us to were incredibly interesting and beautiful, I really enjoyed the chambered tomb and the loch. Everywhere you took us was quite pretty! I'm so glad to have found your channel. Do you always feel safe in the places you roam and explore? I hope so. See you next time 😊.

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks Jane, I liked the tomb too! Yes I feel very safe in Scotland especially away from the big towns and cities

[@Love_rainy_days]

Thanks for sharing, Lassie! 👸🌹 The White Cairn Chamber Tomb large rocks were they moved into place by the "giants" 5000 years ago? 🧙‍♂ "The Battle of Glentrool" cool, you should have paint half your face blue. "Scotland the Brave".⚔⚔ The wild garlic pesto pasta looked amazing. Where I hike we have real "wild mountain goats".🐐 Hope you find your Otters 🦦🦦 Love the channel,💖 stay safe and happy adventures in Ernie. 🚒 Cheers 🥃🥃

[@ericmeredith4022]

I am so glad I found this channel, it just came to me. I feel very blessed.

[@Lightandlovetoyou]

New subscriber here ! Wow I am so grateful I was guided to your channel You’re a brilliant guide and Scottish Ambassador! Your energy is so very lovely

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks and welcome to the channel!

[@clivebuckland6902]

This is a beautiful Vlog Ruth. The scenery is stunning and I love the history you give with your adventures. Your enthusiasm is infectious and shines through in all your presentations of journeys, the food and drink . It’s so refreshing to see the use of natural food products Well Done and Thank You

[@ruthaisling]

Thanks Clive, that's so nice of you to say, thanks for watching!

[@SandsOfArrakis]

Otters. Lovely animals. We have quite a few of them in the northern half of the Netherlands. I've seen them in the marshes close to where I am living. If you happen to be in the Netherlands again. You can find Otters in the Province of Fryslân (Frisia), Northwestern part of the Province of Overijssel, Province of Gelderland and near the river Vecht.

[@ruthaisling]

Good to know! Thanks for sharing! ❤️