Day 4- Burn O’Vat, Tarland, Standing Stones

Another lovely morning in Scotland.
Breakfast of eggs and sausage and the best porridge I’ve ever had.

Then a quick drive to Burn O Vat which is a giant granite rock bowl and waterfall in Aberdeenshire, formed by a melting glacier and used as an old outlaw hiding spot.

We got a little hiking in and then headed to meet the amazing fiddle player from last night (Paul
Anderson) at the Tomnavernie Stone Circle for a look at what they call “recumbent” standing stones.

This kind of monument is found only in north-eastern Scotland. Their characteristic feature is a large stone on its side, flanked by two upright stones, usually on the south or south-west arc of the circle. It surrounds a burial cairn dating to about 4,500 years ago. The site appears to have seen use as late as the AD 1600s.

Paul played an original piece up there on the hill surrounded by the most beautiful countryside. It was breathtaking and so moving.

We had a great conversation with him and learned about Neolithic Pictish carving, divining rods, and ley lines and a history of the land and then went to lunch in the town of Tarland.

After lunch we visited the countryside near Paul’s home where we visited Migvie Kirk. This is a private church on his property with amazing acoustics and we were spoiled with a private concert featuring historical and original music and a history lesson. His lovely wife is also an acclaimed Scottish historical vocalist and sang an ancient lament acapella.

They were warm and welcoming and we visited like old friends. The people here are unlike any other!

Tonight it’s dinner and social time with the other wonderful people on the tour which all have some type of musical talent or connection.

We had no idea what we were going to experience on this trip- but it has been beyond amazing so far.

(Seriously- watch the video clips- you won’t be disappointed!)Read more