Scottish Highlands: Navigate between the lake monster and the castle

The Scottish Highlands are one of Europe's last wildernesses. Six days and five nights, from the legend of the Loch Ness lake monster to the basalt peaks of the Isle of Sky, you will understand Scotland's desolation and pride between castles and whisky.

Loch Ness is world-famous for its 'water monster.' Cruise the lake on a boat and you'll see the deep, dark green water, with low hills on both sides. Whether you believe in the lake monster or not, the ruins of Urquhart Castle by the lake are already desolate enough to be a footnote to Scottish history.

Northward to the Isle of Skye, the crown jewel of the highlands. The Old Man's Peak pierces the sky like a giant's fingers, and the basalt columns of Quileying resemble the backs of a giant dragon. The Isle of Skye in the rain and mist is almost solemnly beautiful.

Edinburgh is the anchor of civilization on this trip. The medieval old town stands side by side with Georgia New Town, with Edinburgh Castle perched atop an extinct volcano. During the August Arts Festival, the entire city transforms into a sea of drama.

Delve into whisky distilleries (such as the Speyside region) and see how barley transforms into amber liquid. Amid the peaty aroma, listen to the distiller tell the story of "water of life," paired with an oat cookie.

The soul of the Scottish Highlands is a kind of proud desolation. When you drive for an hour on a deserted road in the wilderness, with only wind, sheep, and distant mountains, you suddenly understand that loneliness can also be a kind of scenery.