Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Scots Corner - The Lady of the Lake is where?

There's a beautiful area in the Trossachs called Loch Katrine. It's the main drinking water source for Glasgow so strict guidelines are in place as to what can and cannot happen there. Queen Victoria did the honors of "turning the handle" in 1859. Originally is was considered a remote area to visit until "The Lady of the Lake" by Sir Walter Scott was published in 1810. The loch was the central location of the poem, based on older Arthurian legends. The painting "Landscape with a Tourist at Loch Katrine" by John Knox was inspired by the poem.
Tourists, and locals, can take a pleasant boat ride on the screw-driven steamer SS Sir Walter Scott which has been sailing round the loch since 1920. If you enjoy hill climbing then there is a grand view looking down on the loch from Ben A'an.
For all US born natives - did you know that "Hail To The Chief" was inspired by the poem?
For more background information about the poem visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Lady_of_the_Lake_(poem)

4 comments:

Kristina said...

Absolutely gorgeous!

Tammy J said...

What beautiful scenery! I've been to Scotland once, and just loved it. My ancestors came from there, so I enjoy your snippets about Scotland. Thanks for sharing with us!

e said...

Such a beautiful place, it could only be in Scotland. ;) Lizzy
ps i didn't know that about Hail to the Chief, thanks Carol!

Debbie said...

I love your history lessons! Thank you for such great info.