A hike up Calton Hill

Hints of warmer weather are in the air here in Edinburgh. Despite chilly temperatures, the sun is becoming more prominent - coming up earlier and setting later. Carlton Hill has been a tease all winter long. So, recently Stan and I took advantage and finally hiked up Calton Hill.
Calton Hill isn't the big former volcano called Arthur's Seat, this is the smaller volcano near our flat, which was turned into one of Edinburgh's first public parks by philosopher David Hume. (Click the image to read more easily.)
     We'd never hiked Calton Hill before, so we made some incorrect assumptions. One, we brought a picnic. Turns out there's a little cafe at the top. Here was our view:
Also, I thought this would be a HIKE. Turned out to be more of a pleasant walk. Third, I thought this would be a wildlife experience. Well, there were some cool birds which I'd never seen before, such as a UK Robin (google "UK Robin"). But it's mostly a grassy hilltop with a monument, an observatory (under renovation), another monument, and views to die for.
      Want to get the full effect? Check out my videos, which in order will give you a 360° view from the top of Calton Hill.
The view of New Town and the Firth:
Video 1: https://youtu.be/ONRALryrKps
The view of Arthur's Seat:
Video 2: https://youtu.be/lSGAeqSPCTU
The view of the city and the castle:
Video 3: https://youtu.be/O-2WsMcrbIc
Why they call Edinburgh the Athens of the North (and our view during lunch):
Video 4: https://youtu.be/WoVfc2Tw_U4

2 comments:

Robyn Hood Black said...

It's like we get to visit vicariously - breathtaking. Thanks for sharing, Chickie!

Elizabeth O Dulemba said...

Wish you could do it with me in person, Robyn!!! Hugs, e