Could you stay in an island cottage like this? 🍵Don't forget Beam are offering up to 40% off sitewide when you click shopbeam.com/RuthAisling and use code RUTHAISLING for a limited time only.
Trying to picture exactly where the cottage you stayed in is. We stayed in the But and Ben on the Ardura Estate which was near the little hump back bridge at the start of your video. We were lucky and had a fabulous week of weather end of September. Your trip looked fabulous
Hi Ruth. My wife and I love Mull. We used to go once, sometimes twice a year. It's one of our favourite places along with the Ardnamurchan peninsula. Sadly, my wife passed away in October, having a severe stroke. In the Spring I plan to spread her ashes on Mull as she loved it so much. I'm hoping to visit Callum and Roxy on the Ardnamurchan peninsula this year too. Thanks for the great videos. Best wishes for a great 2025. John.
Very sorry to hear about your loss. Losing someone very dear to us is a wound that never heals. Wishing you good health and fortitude. Regards from Argentina.
Hi John, I’m so sad to hear about the loss of your wife 😢 what a special idea to spread her ashes on Mull. I’m sure Callum and Roxy are looking forward to seeing you. They mentioned to me how much they enjoyed your last visit!
You said Oban is a "popular place to catch ferrys." I heard "popular place to catch fairies" and I pictured everyone running around with butterfly nets. The things my mind does... 🤣
All the troubles in the world and you're doing sight seeing videos? Thank God! It such a relief watching something so enchanting and a much needed distraction!
Thank you so much Ruth. This is basically my dream life. To be in a secluded cottage in Scotland away from the noise and what is considered normal civilisation now. With the cozy fire and lovely food and of course whisky😍. Great video, very life affirming and heartwarming.
I lived 6 months in Oban. These wonderful months will remain in my memory thanks to the wonderful residents who accepted Ukrainian refugees at the beginning of the war.
Thos is the second video I have watched and have to say I enjoyed them cery much..I admire you tremendously with your courage and determination travelling by yourself in these lonely beautiful places..well done..wonderful work😮😊
@@PatrickGraham-h4u We have some lending libraries in the front of houses here in the Midwest, but too often all the books are all taken and not returned.
I find that waking up to hear the wind and the waves crashing on shore is so much more exciting than a calm sunny day. As I'm now of the age where my bladder wakes me up very early, I like to put my action cam outside pointing towards the east and get a time lapse of the sunrise before getting back into bed. Once again, a good wind and a few clouds make for a better film than clear blue skies.
Hi Ruth: You asked the question could you stay in an Island cottage? I live in a remote part of Canada, on a pristine lake in a 50 year old totally wooden cottage. All the modern conveniences. Huge wood burning fireplace and surrounded by forest. So I know what a great time you had. You sure know how to live. The food you made for yourself had my mouth watering. Except for the pizza. LOL. Your cooking and eating of the muscles was a joy to watch. Such a beautiful place for you to visit. I wish you a belated Happy Birthday and of course a healthy and prosperous New Year! Be safe.
I visited Mull a few years ago and stayed in a similar cottage between Christmas and new year, it was incredible, I'm an artist and spent 10 days painting some of the amazing sunsets and local scenery. I hope you go back to make another video because it brings back some very happy memories of the time I spent there.
Palaver? DId you say "palaver" around minute 32? One of my favorite words that no one ever uses. I sat up in my chair when you used it. I even replayed it a few times. Wonderful!
I am from London and always use the word palaver. Only the other day after sorting out a task. I text my sister saying what a palaver. Thanks for the spelling. 😊
That was a truly fantastic little cottage…I would be more likely to enjoy it in the winter do to the wood burner and views of the angry water in the bay…the wind noise just makes it more cozy…am I crazy?
I grew up in London, in the 50s/60s and we had an airer that pulled up to the ceiling over the cooker. My sisters and I used to jive with the rope that secured it.
Regular all natural (non clumping) kitty litter is amazing for this. Pour some under the stuck wheels and it gives them traction. It's natural (please don't use anything with artificial ingredients) so it will break down.
This episode truly warms my heart. It gives me affirmation as to why I moved to Scotland from South America. The joy in your face when you see the Otter!!!! The colours, the cosyness. Thank you for sharing this episode. ❤
I’m Scottish and so enjoy your channel. I have traveled and lived all over the world and at 75 have returned to Scotland for my last chapter. Keep doing what you are doing … you are amazing. Maybe share a little about your family and life 👍💕
@@ruthaisling loving it. Although I’m thinking you have to grow up in it to gradually embrace it … I’m talking about the weather 🥶. Will be heading out to the Fireballs later tonight … there saying it might be cancelled but surely not … just have to wrap up. Have a great New Year.
My husband and I throughly enjoy your UA-cam in USA, we are almost your grandparents age. He doesn’t hike. I hike with an 81 yr old, our Average hike is 7/8 miles, 1,300 elevation. I’m 14 yrs younger than her. You go girl you go! Mussels are yummy, way cheaper than clams, shush! Don’t tell anyone. 🤭
It is my tradition to do a cottage stay in Jan/Feb when it's too cold and icy for the caravan. All of my cottage stays have been wonderful. Although I do tend to avoid the islands in the winter, as the ferries can be unreliable with storms - as you know. Mull is great - a fantastic combination of pretty lowland, dramatic mountains and rugged coastline. Tobermory is so colourful. Iona and Staffa are must visits, and dolphin watching trips too. I manage the course web-pages for Biology School in the University of Edinburgh. All of the decorative images on these sites are Staffa puffins and Mull dolphins. Congrats on seeing an otter. Ardnamurchan is a one of a kind, not only is the route to it stunning, but you can drive through the plumbing of a volcano, black rock rings surrounding brilliant green marshes. You can travel through them to the silver sands of Sanna beach. It is a long route, take a couple of days, I did it on one day and I've never felt so car sick - and I was driving
Over the last several years we've started a tradition of going to Scotland as a family for the February half term and staying in a cottage. Like you, we avoid the Islands because of the ferries but that then gives us something to look forward to in the spring/early summer. It's great to spend a whole week with our grandson but we end up paying more as its half term. We always thought that we could have cheaper family holidays as our daughters got older and we would not be tied to school holidays but they both became teachers.
From all your videos I think this is my favorite by far… the simplicity of it but the richness of it too… nothing more relaxing on the busy and difficult lives of many of us, to just be. Be in a quaint cottage on a beautiful island, be by the fire, be in the kitchen to prepare food, and that lovely morning to just be able to wake up to the howling wind. And a few precious moments were you just took a lovely video from inside the window for all of us to look at the sea and hear the wind. Generally all the video was as if we were there. Really, it’s what gets many viewers who might never be able to come there to experience a weekend as if they travelled. Thank you, and I hope you make other similar videos of so many nice footage inside (or even from inside the van for a weekend). Sorry for the long comment! Just to let you know and thank you
Hi Ruth, your channel just popped up. I am 1/2 Scottish and adore this country and it's people. As a young girl, (in the USA), my Mother traveled back to the UK a few times.(family in England also) For some reason when she told me about visiting the Isle of Mull and a cottage and a man named Peter... it stuck with me to this day. My Mom passed away in 1995 but seeing you here on Mull chokes me up. My Mom was so sensitive and so moved by Mull. I've had the joy and privilege to visit Scotland and now through your eyes, Mull. Thank you, Ruth, lovely and mysterious Mull, lovelyScotland.
Yeah its not the SPAR that has the bad reviews, its the bar next to it! Quite infamous actually. I’m glad you came to see us here, you were lucky seeing the sun! Been horrendous weather for weeks now. Still, wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Special place.
For me this was one of your best videos yet Ruth, and I would love to see you explore Mull for a week and see what it has to offer. Do you know if Mull has charging places to charge an Electric Car. The pulley for drying your clothes, certainly brought back memories for me when I was growing up, my mum really did rely on it when she could not get the washing out on the line. A belated happy birthday to you, I hope you had a fab day, another year older and wiser as they say.😄 Safe travels and stay safe Ruth.🏴
I live in the Mountains of New Hampshire in America 🇺🇸 my great great grandfather John Patterson was born on the Isle of Mull .I am so happy you're visiting the Beautiful Isle of Mull
Resslings are often looked down upon by wine snobs, but if you bring them to a party, the partygoers will always empty the bottles. Once you know what you are doing with them, they are lovely wines.
I lived in the Rhineland-Pfalz, FRG area for three years and loved the Reisling and Piesporter wines once I learned how to read the labels. Perfect in colder weather…always full bodied and luscious.
I first read about the Isle of Mull while reading Robert Louis Stevenson's Kidnapped. it was a novel assigned to us in our English Lessons. How great it felt to watch this video and trying to recall how Stevenson sketched the landscape in my head.
Wine + leeks + garlic is a great broth for steaming mussels, then use one mussel shell like tweezers to pull the next one out of its shell. Dipping toast in the broth is also very tasty. Love your videos!
This is just what I was going to say about using an empty shell to eat the rest. We stayed several days in Tobermory some years ago. I want to go back! My experience was much like yours. Left part of my heart there!
My husband and I just watched your video, you are just an absolute delight. WE LOVE YOU and your videos. It gives us such a bright outlook and some hope for the world as young people like you share your culture with you. We moved to Italy last year and are waiting for our papers to be able to travel Europe and our first stop will be Scotland. Thank you so much for your videos and tell your mother she did a great job raising you!
Another great video. You make it look so easy, l bet it's not. I use the shell of one mussel in a pincer move to get the other mussel out of its shell, it works! So mussels come with their own cutlery.
How beautiful Ruth! I’m enjoying your videos. My family and I are minutes from the SoCal fires. We were without power for three cold nights. I thought a lot about your video about the bothy (I’m not sure if I spelled that correctly) with the lovely candles. That helped. Stay creative and thank you for your videos!
That more comfortable classy cottage way of living definitely suits you, And what a beautiful location to celebrate your Birthday 🎂🎉 Good food, Good wine, and Good company, it doesn't get better than that 🍷🍷
Your down to earth personality is infectious Ruth, I imagine your exactly the same in real life, Definitely the best travel UA-cam channel, I only watch yours actually 😊I don't leave comments on every video but I do watch every one, the haunted Bothie and Sawney Beans cave were just off the charts, And thanks for heart, there was some funny material in your last video to, about the house boats but i thought I'd better not go there, have a lovely day ❤🌌
I love Oban, was there visiting a friend years ago, 15 to be exact and it was the best time Ive ever had. The scenery alone was stunning on the way from Fort William. Want to return soon and go to Maliag.
Since discovering this channel a couple of months ago I must say I'm rather enchanted with the style and presentation. I toured mainland Scotland in 2023 by MX5 and had also ridden my motorcycle around some of the inner Hebrides in 2010. Its given me motivation to go again; its just that there is quite a lot of "dynamic" weather to experience.
Hi Ruth, Allie from Atlantic Canada 🇨🇦 here. I have never seen a clothes dryer pully system above a fireplace before. I can recall as a child if my mother didn’t want to use our electric clothes dryer or she had hung a few items out on the outside clothesline in the winter that didn’t get quite dry like jeans still damp or frozen stiff she would hang them up to dry downstairs in our basement we had a clothesline. They would finish drying there or in our electric dryer. Yes with shellfish you definitely must know if they are still alive and throw away any that are not or any with broken shells. There are many ways to prepare them. Common is garlic onion and tomato with wine, Sherry or even beer. The amount of shells ( garbage) makes it look like a lot but the meat itself is only a small amount really. Also of note any that do not open during the cooking/steaming process should be considered non edible ( I do hope the recipe you used mentioned this fact)
I love your channel and trips. Thanks for letting me live vicariously thru you. It’s always been a dream of mine to travel to the UK, Scotland in particular but as a poor American on disability, I doubt it will ever happen. Thank you, be safe and Happy New Year! Love Caprese salads! Never too much basil! If you ever see 10% millet cottage cheese get it! It’s the best!
I've stayed on Mull twice. The first time was really stormy but the second time was lovely & sunny. I had a nice day on Calgary Beach & took a boat trip to Staffa & Lunga (the puffin island).
I love mussels! I've had them in a lemongrass cream; garlic and butter ones at an Italian restaurant, served over pasta and marinara; smoked mussels; and one time my mother was gifted way too many, so she pickled a few cases in jars. They turned out delicious and nice to have anytime.🙂 They are also tasty in a fish chowder. Thanks for the videos! (now I'm hungry!)
Ruth ! I can feel your excitement, and it brings me such a huge smile, and a giggle. You are such a real genuine person, and naturally cheerful. What an absolutely lovely place to stay! I love the Walks 😁 Thank you Ruth! Happy New Year to you! - British Gal living in Washington State.
Oh my god, if only I was 40 years younger and living in the northern hemisphere, I would definitely come a courting. Ruth you are so adventurous, brave, enthusiastic, intelligent and happy. I so enjoy your videos. It brings back so many memories from when my beautiful late wife and I visited Scotland in the 1980’s. If you ever find yourself in New Zealand I would be more than happy to point you towards the best spots.
first time I picked mussels I was gathering the big ones when a lady who knew more about them said, oh no honey, pick the smaller ones, they are much better. She was right and I enjoyed many meals of them in the years that followed.
5:08; My mother installed on of these above one of the three fire places when she renovated a home when I was a teenager. Very handy as she refused to use an electric dryer, especially with six children. Pulling up the heavy wet clothing was fun.
Drying clothes in America is by gas or electric dryer. In Cebu we just hang the clothes outside and let the sun dry them. I remember my mother putting the clothes on a long clothes line with a pulley so she could run them out as far as 50’. This was 1955,I really don’t remember if we had a dryer for clothes, just the washing machine with an electric roller on top to squeeze the water out of the clothes.
I love Mull and OMG, what a location and what a lovely wee cottage! We had a pulley just like that on the kitchen when I was wee. I'd forgotten all about that! Also, the sushi looked delicious and tomatoes, olive oil, Balsamic vinegar and basil: one of my favourite food combos! 😛😋
Very enjoyable video! Our family visited Scotland this past summer spending most of our time in the Highlands and Islands where we have cousins. Since we live in the other Scotland -- Nova Scotia -- on the west coast of Cape Breton Island, we can easily relate to this environment including the gale force winds! I can look down at the sea just below our house and watch the evening sunsets over the Gulf. All the best in the New Year!
Ruth thank you for sharing this, i have been married for 32 years and when i first met my wife we had a stay where you are. We loved watching this and remembering what we did , the walks and watching the setting sun with a glass or two or thee bottles of wine.
Love this video Ruth! Mull is high on my list and we may do in 2025 after our huge Japan trip. I am so chuffed for you seeing an otter. How exciting for you 😍 That cottage looks so cosy and what amazing views! Iv never even thought to look at reviews of places like shops!? Although I take them with a pinch of salt. Winter is my favourite time to travel around here in the Scottish Highlands. Looks lovely and quiet on Mull perfect time to visit! Thanks for taking us along Ruth x
Fab channel Ruth, love it to bits, just brilliant, happy new year and keep safe and well for 2025. You asked for comments from us who make new year resolutions! one i make and try to keep is, DONT BE, Critical, Abusive, Sarcastic, Insensitive, Cynical, Obstructive, Difficult, and I to try to live in peace as much as i can with everyone. I am humbled when i fail and kick my self and try to be a better person.
This was an excellent video. You saw your otter. Im so happy for you. Im lucky enough to have had that feeling. Two of them playing around my feet for several minutes before realising I wasnt a tree😊 What a perfect place this would be for you to write your book. Wow did you really eat 2kg of mussels😮 Thanks for another wonderful video Ruth.😊👍
I love your videos! I recently bought a used van, much smaller than yours, just a bed really, but I wish I could teleport it and me to Scotland! Fun mussels eating tip: use a shell as pincers/chopsticks! Happy trails.
I would like to say 'Thank you, Ruth' for showing Scotland to me. My grandfather was born on Skye and he so wanted to go back for a visit, but unfortunately, he passed away before doing so. I have told my family about your vlogs so that they too can share in the wonder of Scottish lifestyle and nature. The history that you share, is also very informative. Maybe when on Skye again you could consider a tour of Dunvegan? I love the way you saviour the whiskeys and beer! The mussels looked yummy, should also do the mussel soup with cream.
A lovely location and spectacular colours whether stormy or sunny..Well the cottage,what can I say, I could easily stay there..absolutely delightful and preferable to a tent and mouse as a neighbour on St Kildas. It has been a privilege to have shared your adventures in 2024. Happy and adventurous new year !
For my birthday in 2023 I went to Scotland with my best friend. It had been a dream of ours since we were children. We visited Mull and stayed a short ferry ride from there in Ardtornish. We rented a gamekeepers cottage and it was the highlight of the entire trip! It poured rain for most of the time and I absolutely loved it anyway! When we were on Mull, we visited the Duart Castle and walked the grounds. It was an experience I will never forget. I absolutely fell in love with the area. I will be going back there again soon. I love your channel, Ruth. Happy New Year!
I’m so glad you finally got to see an otter. I love watching your videos. I’ll never get a chance to see all these wonderful places in Scotland. I usually see Perth (my husband’s hometown), Edinburgh, and a few other places (our last visit included a week in a lovely cottage on Skye), so seeing all the other places through your eyes is a real treat.
This was my brothers favorite island. I also visited with him & my husband. I don’t think I will be able to visit again now on my own. Please visit Calgary bay where John has a memory bench for his wife. ❤
Hi Ruth! Love your channel! Yes we have those clothes drying racks in Hungary. As specially in the old high ceiling apartments in Budapest. We call them fregoli
I like how you always show what food you bring. I have 2 🎉 places booked in rather spring. One is for 2 weeks in Tobermory and o e for 5 days on the beach in Ayr. You've given me some good ideas. It will definitely safe me money from eating out every night. Also, what a cozy cottage! Happy belated birthday🎉
@ruthaisling it's all one. I used to live in Ayr but fell in love with the western Highlands and islands in 2014. I save my old home town for last each trip. I'm in Scotland 46 days again this spring. Maybe one day I will book self catering on Hartis but so far I always stay in the Harris Hotel. They have a wonderful restaurant and separate snug bar. I would like to book self catering for 2026.
Well Ruth....2 things, you should always drink wine that sounds like your name R eisling😂 And you certainly got the 'seal' of approval in this video 😂😂
If you have established that your difficulty in sleeping is down to a nutrient deficiency, it is a strong prompt that you need to adjust your diet, not just to take a nighttime drink
Could you stay in an island cottage like this?
🍵Don't forget Beam are offering up to 40% off sitewide when you click shopbeam.com/RuthAisling and use code RUTHAISLING for a limited time only.
Yes i could stay on an island cottage like that.
I think if I stayed on the island, I'd never want to come home 😂❤
My goal would be to hike up to the snow ❄️ line on those mountains 🏔. The ones that are in the distance of your cottage ❤😊
Yes please 👍🇸🇪
Trying to picture exactly where the cottage you stayed in is. We stayed in the But and Ben on the Ardura Estate which was near the little hump back bridge at the start of your video. We were lucky and had a fabulous week of weather end of September. Your trip looked fabulous
Hi Ruth. My wife and I love Mull. We used to go once, sometimes twice a year. It's one of our favourite places along with the Ardnamurchan peninsula. Sadly, my wife passed away in October, having a severe stroke. In the Spring I plan to spread her ashes on Mull as she loved it so much. I'm hoping to visit Callum and Roxy on the Ardnamurchan peninsula this year too. Thanks for the great videos. Best wishes for a great 2025. John.
@Ruth! This comment deserves a heart more than any other!
Very sorry to hear about your loss. Losing someone very dear to us is a wound that never heals. Wishing you good health and fortitude. Regards from Argentina.
Ruth please send a heart to this comment
Hi John, I’m so sad to hear about the loss of your wife 😢 what a special idea to spread her ashes on Mull. I’m sure Callum and Roxy are looking forward to seeing you. They mentioned to me how much they enjoyed your last visit!
@ruthaisling Thank you for your kind words, Ruth. Maybe I'll bump into you one day up in Scotland on my travels. Take care.
You said Oban is a "popular place to catch ferrys." I heard "popular place to catch fairies" and I pictured everyone running around with butterfly nets. The things my mind does... 🤣
😂
Same here. It took me a second to think. ferrys not fairies. 😂
Same🥰
I completely thought that’s what she meant!!
Me too!
All the troubles in the world and you're doing sight seeing videos? Thank God! It such a relief watching something so enchanting and a much needed distraction!
Thanks for watching!
I loved your presentation and all the good food made me hungry😅
Ruth Aisling. Absolute Scottish legend. A wonderful, charismatic & beautiful guide to an incredible country. Thank you.
Thank you so much ❤
I love these sort of cosy cottage stays where people just do normal stuff
Ruth is like the golden retriever puppy of travel vloggers - she’s crazy adorable and always makes her escapades interesting 🥰
Haha thanks! 😂
You're as warm and welcoming as that beautiful cottage. It's why your videos are so wonderful. Thank you.
Thanks for watching!
37:47 pro tip: always rinse food and vegetables and never assume they are pre washed. Better safe than sorry.
Thank you so much Ruth. This is basically my dream life. To be in a secluded cottage in Scotland away from the noise and what is considered normal civilisation now. With the cozy fire and lovely food and of course whisky😍. Great video, very life affirming and heartwarming.
It’s my dream too ❤
Gosh am I with you on that x
SAME! ❤️
There are around 2,000 castles in Scotland, making it one of the countries with the most castles in the world.
Wow!
筋肉=マッスルと呼んでるのは日本の我々の地方ではカラス貝と言います。磯に行って岩についているのをマイナスドライバーなどではぎとります。家に持ち帰って塩水に入れ揉み洗いして殻についた汚れを取りその後海水と同じくらいの水にして冷水の状態から15分くらい茹で中身を取り出して食べます。またみそ汁に入れて食べることもあります。
日本のスーパーでも冷凍の輸入品で売っていますね。流石に新鮮なものにかまいませんが、、、
God for you Long may it last
Good
Ruth is a great ambassador for her country. For me, as a Norwegian, Scotland has become something more than just a part of Great Britain.
I feel that Shetland and Orkney need to reclaim Norway. ( jeg mener Shetland og Orkneys øyer skulle gjenvinne Norge!)
Lots of Scottish people have Norwegian DNA thanks to those lovely Vikings. I know I do!🇳🇴🏴🇺🇲
007 is Scottish born 😊
Ruth, your channel is the next best thing to actually being in Scotland. You have such a wonderful way about you as well. Happy New Year. : )
Thank you so much! Happy new year to you too when it comes!
@@ruthaisling Two other side notes, that cottage looks soo cozy. Also, what's the availability of organic food in Scotland? That mostly all I eat : )
@ you can’t find it everywhere but in some shops you’ll find organic things
@@ruthaisling Thanks. Cheers.
Terrific video Ruth, what a super cottage bolt hole. Happy New Year and looking forward to seeing your adventures in 2025. Cheers, Garry.
I lived 6 months in Oban. These wonderful months will remain in my memory thanks to the wonderful residents who accepted Ukrainian refugees at the beginning of the war.
Nice to hear you enjoyed your time there
I wish we could have honesty boxes in the US. I swear the box would be stolen before the contents.
Thos is the second video I have watched and have to say I enjoyed them cery much..I admire you tremendously with your courage and determination travelling by yourself in these lonely beautiful places..well done..wonderful work😮😊
@@PatrickGraham-h4u We have some lending libraries in the front of houses here in the Midwest, but too often all the books are all taken and not returned.
I find that waking up to hear the wind and the waves crashing on shore is so much more exciting than a calm sunny day. As I'm now of the age where my bladder wakes me up very early, I like to put my action cam outside pointing towards the east and get a time lapse of the sunrise before getting back into bed.
Once again, a good wind and a few clouds make for a better film than clear blue skies.
I love the sound of the wind and waves too!
Hi Ruth: You asked the question could you stay in an Island cottage? I live in a remote part of Canada, on a pristine lake in a 50 year old totally wooden cottage. All the modern conveniences. Huge wood burning fireplace and surrounded by forest. So I know what a great time you had. You sure know how to live. The food you made for yourself had my mouth watering. Except for the pizza. LOL. Your cooking and eating of the muscles was a joy to watch. Such a beautiful place for you to visit. I wish you a belated Happy Birthday and of course a healthy and prosperous New Year! Be safe.
Thank you, where you live sounds amazing! Out of all the food, it was only the pre-made item that didn’t taste the best. Next time… homemade pizza! 😂
Your home sounds wonderful too.
You are brave and beautiful and ambitious for traveling all these places by yourself you are so positive ❤
Thank you so much!
I’m in England and have two of the laundry pulleys in my kitchen plus another in the boot room. We call them a Sheila’s Maid here.
Different names all over!
I have a Sheila’s Maid here in the US in my laundry room - after noticing them on British television in people’s kitchens.
And I don't know the name for them there, but I saw these in then Bombay in the 1980s and 90s.
The position of the cottage on the coast and that weather is my idea of heaven!
I visited Mull a few years ago and stayed in a similar cottage between Christmas and new year, it was incredible, I'm an artist and spent 10 days painting some of the amazing sunsets and local scenery. I hope you go back to make another video because it brings back some very happy memories of the time I spent there.
Oh wow, I can imagine you created some amazing art!
At first i thought you were saying that you were in a good place to "catch fairies" 🧚♂️🧚♀️ as in the little elemental spirits 😂.
That’s what the subtitles said in my tv at first! 🤣
😂😂
Palaver? DId you say "palaver" around minute 32? One of my favorite words that no one ever uses. I sat up in my chair when you used it. I even replayed it a few times. Wonderful!
I noticed that too! I use the word palaver a lot and people often look at me like they have never heard the word before! 🤣
Yep me too - my Dad was from UK and we have always used "palaver" ( I am in SAfrica )
@@thehighlandlife2023 I guess some of us need a word like palaver more than others to describe our experiences.
@didevilliers1238 me too! Cape Town! There was a fire here on the mountains! And very strong winds too. What a palaver!
I am from London and always use the word palaver. Only the other day after sorting out a task. I text my sister saying what a palaver. Thanks for the spelling.
😊
That was a truly fantastic little cottage…I would be more likely to enjoy it in the winter do to the wood burner and views of the angry water in the bay…the wind noise just makes it more cozy…am I crazy?
I agree with you!
I grew up in London, in the 50s/60s and we had an airer that pulled up to the ceiling over the cooker. My sisters and I used to jive with the rope that secured it.
If you get stuck again on your own , try and take your car mats out and put them under your wheels .
Worth a try sometimes works .
Ohhh that’s a good idea!
Regular all natural (non clumping) kitty litter is amazing for this. Pour some under the stuck wheels and it gives them traction. It's natural (please don't use anything with artificial ingredients) so it will break down.
This episode truly warms my heart. It gives me affirmation as to why I moved to Scotland from South America. The joy in your face when you see the Otter!!!! The colours, the cosyness. Thank you for sharing this episode. ❤
Amazing! We moved to the Scottish highlands 3 years ago and absolutely madly in love with the place!
I’m Scottish and so enjoy your channel. I have traveled and lived all over the world and at 75 have returned to Scotland for my last chapter. Keep doing what you are doing … you are amazing. Maybe share a little about your family and life 👍💕
Are you enjoying being back in Scotland?
@@ruthaisling loving it. Although I’m thinking you have to grow up in it to gradually embrace it … I’m talking about the weather 🥶. Will be heading out to the Fireballs later tonight … there saying it might be cancelled but surely not … just have to wrap up. Have a great New Year.
I’ve seen those clothes driers in England - usually over the Aga
So glad you finally got to see an otter!!
(: " evrabawdy ought tae sea anutter otter " :)
Couldn’t believe it!!! 😂
What a Blessed and Beautiful Birthday present for you 🦦🥳
My husband and I throughly enjoy your UA-cam in USA, we are almost your grandparents age. He doesn’t hike. I hike with an 81 yr old, our Average hike is 7/8 miles, 1,300 elevation. I’m 14 yrs younger than her. You go girl you go! Mussels are yummy, way cheaper than clams, shush! Don’t tell anyone. 🤭
Thanks so much for watching! My grandparents are 88 and 90 now!
It is my tradition to do a cottage stay in Jan/Feb when it's too cold and icy for the caravan. All of my cottage stays have been wonderful. Although I do tend to avoid the islands in the winter, as the ferries can be unreliable with storms - as you know.
Mull is great - a fantastic combination of pretty lowland, dramatic mountains and rugged coastline. Tobermory is so colourful. Iona and Staffa are must visits, and dolphin watching trips too. I manage the course web-pages for Biology School in the University of Edinburgh. All of the decorative images on these sites are Staffa puffins and Mull dolphins. Congrats on seeing an otter. Ardnamurchan is a one of a kind, not only is the route to it stunning, but you can drive through the plumbing of a volcano, black rock rings surrounding brilliant green marshes. You can travel through them to the silver sands of Sanna beach. It is a long route, take a couple of days, I did it on one day and I've never felt so car sick - and I was driving
Over the last several years we've started a tradition of going to Scotland as a family for the February half term and staying in a cottage. Like you, we avoid the Islands because of the ferries but that then gives us something to look forward to in the spring/early summer.
It's great to spend a whole week with our grandson but we end up paying more as its half term. We always thought that we could have cheaper family holidays as our daughters got older and we would not be tied to school holidays but they both became teachers.
Thank you for this recommendation, David, I actually visited this beach in my Ardnamurchan video in Summer 2024. It was amazing!
Ruthさん、今年一年素晴らしい動画をありがとうございました。
新しい年もわRuthさんにとって、良い年であることをお祈り申し上げます。
❤❤
The wooden lodge you passed on the way down to your cottage is where I stay every year. My most favourite place in the whole world
That sounds beautiful, it's a very special place.
From all your videos I think this is my favorite by far… the simplicity of it but the richness of it too… nothing more relaxing on the busy and difficult lives of many of us, to just be. Be in a quaint cottage on a beautiful island, be by the fire, be in the kitchen to prepare food, and that lovely morning to just be able to wake up to the howling wind. And a few precious moments were you just took a lovely video from inside the window for all of us to look at the sea and hear the wind. Generally all the video was as if we were there. Really, it’s what gets many viewers who might never be able to come there to experience a weekend as if they travelled. Thank you, and I hope you make other similar videos of so many nice footage inside (or even from inside the van for a weekend). Sorry for the long comment! Just to let you know and thank you
Hi Ruth, your channel just popped up. I am 1/2 Scottish and adore this country and it's people. As a young girl, (in the USA), my Mother traveled back to the UK a few times.(family in England also) For some reason when she told me about visiting the Isle of Mull and a cottage and a man named Peter... it stuck with me to this day. My Mom passed away in 1995 but seeing you here on Mull chokes me up. My Mom was so sensitive and so moved by Mull. I've had the joy and privilege to visit Scotland and now through your eyes, Mull. Thank you, Ruth, lovely and mysterious Mull, lovelyScotland.
I’m glad you could travel there through watching the video! ❤
There is so much content on the internet, it takes someone genuine to shine through.
Keep up the great content
Thank you, Mark, I'm glad you are enjoying the videos!
My home Island where I grew up. Stunning and lovely people. ❤❤
What an amazing place to grow up!
Wow super jealous! What a childhood that must have been 😍
Yeah its not the SPAR that has the bad reviews, its the bar next to it! Quite infamous actually. I’m glad you came to see us here, you were lucky seeing the sun! Been horrendous weather for weeks now. Still, wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Special place.
For me this was one of your best videos yet Ruth, and I would love to see you explore Mull for a week and see what it has to offer. Do you know if Mull has charging places to charge an Electric Car. The pulley for drying your clothes, certainly brought back memories for me when I was growing up, my mum really did rely on it when she could not get the washing out on the line.
A belated happy birthday to you, I hope you had a fab day, another year older and wiser as they say.😄
Safe travels and stay safe Ruth.🏴
Thank you so much, that’s great to hear! I’m not sure about EV points, is there maybe an app which shows where they are located?
@ there is indeed an app Ruth 👍
I live in the Mountains of New Hampshire in America 🇺🇸 my great great grandfather John Patterson was born on the Isle of Mull .I am so happy you're visiting the Beautiful Isle of Mull
Thank you for watching from New Hampshire and sharing your story, Mull is very beautiful!
Resslings are often looked down upon by wine snobs, but if you bring them to a party, the partygoers will always empty the bottles. Once you know what you are doing with them, they are lovely wines.
I lived in the Rhineland-Pfalz, FRG area for three years and loved the Reisling and Piesporter wines once I learned how to read the labels. Perfect in colder weather…always full bodied and luscious.
@@timothylindsay3244 absolutely. Rhineland-Pfalz is great.
Thank you for sharing.
Just, WOW! What a dream. Loved the wind, the mood, the cottage, and the OTTER! ❤
Glad you enjoyed it!
I first read about the Isle of Mull while reading Robert Louis Stevenson's Kidnapped. it was a novel assigned to us in our English Lessons. How great it felt to watch this video and trying to recall how Stevenson sketched the landscape in my head.
Wine + leeks + garlic is a great broth for steaming mussels, then use one mussel shell like tweezers to pull the next one out of its shell. Dipping toast in the broth is also very tasty. Love your videos!
I’ll try that next time, thanks for the suggestion! ❤
Mussels are the favourite food of my husbands. He absolutely loves them, he just steams them. You have to discard any that are open though.
This is just what I was going to say about using an empty shell to eat the rest. We stayed several days in Tobermory some years ago. I want to go back! My experience was much like yours. Left part of my heart there!
My husband and I just watched your video, you are just an absolute delight. WE LOVE YOU and your videos. It gives us such a bright outlook and some hope for the world as young people like you share your culture with you. We moved to Italy last year and are waiting for our papers to be able to travel Europe and our first stop will be Scotland. Thank you so much for your videos and tell your mother she did a great job raising you!
Thank you, Diana, I'm glad you're enjoying the videos and I hope you will enjoy your adventure in Scotland! ☺️
Another great video. You make it look so easy, l bet it's not. I use the shell of one mussel in a pincer move to get the other mussel out of its shell, it works! So mussels come with their own cutlery.
Don't be sorry. It was a pleasure to see you making and enjoying sushi🙂日本人です
Thank you for watching. The sushi was delicious!
We used to live in a house built in 1908 and it had a pulley above the fire place, we still used it! Clothes dried super quick (NW England) x
Yes it's so efficient, thank you for watching.
Oh, Happy Birthday to my talented, Scottish Sis!
Ruth, Iwish you a very Happy New Year and may mighty God shower you with many blessings!
Thank you so much!
So pleased you finally saw Harry Otter !
Very funny! Me too!
How beautiful Ruth! I’m enjoying your videos. My family and I are minutes from the SoCal fires. We were without power for three cold nights. I thought a lot about your video about the bothy (I’m not sure if I spelled that correctly) with the lovely candles. That helped. Stay creative and thank you for your videos!
I’m so sorry to hear that and hope you are ok and safe 😔
@ruthaisling Thank you for your kindness! Our power is back on and we're prepped with supplies now. 💪🏻👍🏻
That more comfortable classy cottage way of living definitely suits you, And what a beautiful location to celebrate your Birthday 🎂🎉 Good food, Good wine, and Good company, it doesn't get better than that 🍷🍷
It was a nice change to stay in the cottage, and the location really was wonderful. Thank you for watching.
Your down to earth personality is infectious Ruth, I imagine your exactly the same in real life, Definitely the best travel UA-cam channel, I only watch yours actually 😊I don't leave comments on every video but I do watch every one, the haunted Bothie and Sawney Beans cave were just off the charts, And thanks for heart, there was some funny material in your last video to, about the house boats but i thought I'd better not go there, have a lovely day ❤🌌
I love Oban, was there visiting a friend years ago, 15 to be exact and it was the best time Ive ever had. The scenery alone was stunning on the way from Fort William. Want to return soon and go to Maliag.
Since discovering this channel a couple of months ago I must say I'm rather enchanted with the style and presentation. I toured mainland Scotland in 2023 by MX5 and had also ridden my motorcycle around some of the inner Hebrides in 2010. Its given me motivation to go again; its just that there is quite a lot of "dynamic" weather to experience.
I'm glad you feel inspired by the video, thank you for watching!
Hi Ruth your video popped up on my feed…you are such a delight…subscribed…richest blessings…🌺🤗🌺
Welcome!
I have never considered the pulley rack near the fireplace, but I think it's genius.
I agree, it's a great idea!
we have a pull down laundry dryer like that in New Zealand, but they are not common here either.
Oh that's interesting, they're very useful! Thank you for watching.
Hi Ruth, Allie from Atlantic Canada 🇨🇦 here. I have never seen a clothes dryer pully system above a fireplace before. I can recall as a child if my mother didn’t want to use our electric clothes dryer or she had hung a few items out on the outside clothesline in the winter that didn’t get quite dry like jeans still damp or frozen stiff she would hang them up to dry downstairs in our basement we had a clothesline. They would finish drying there or in our electric dryer.
Yes with shellfish you definitely must know if they are still alive and throw away any that are not or any with broken shells. There are many ways to prepare them. Common is garlic onion and tomato with wine, Sherry or even beer. The amount of shells ( garbage) makes it look like a lot but the meat itself is only a small amount really. Also of note any that do not open during the cooking/steaming process should be considered non edible ( I do hope the recipe you used mentioned this fact)
Loved this fantastic advert for how beautiful Scotland is! Great work Ruth!!!!
Thanks so much John!
Old man husband is back, 7am. Dogs are walked, cats fed, my 2nd mile is done. Time now for some relaxing history. 😇
I love your channel and trips. Thanks for letting me live vicariously thru you. It’s always been a dream of mine to travel to the UK, Scotland in particular but as a poor American on disability, I doubt it will ever happen. Thank you, be safe and Happy New Year!
Love Caprese salads! Never too much basil! If you ever see 10% millet cottage cheese get it! It’s the best!
I've stayed on Mull twice. The first time was really stormy but the second time was lovely & sunny. I had a nice day on Calgary Beach & took a boat trip to Staffa & Lunga (the puffin island).
Sounds like a great adventure! Thank you for watching.
I love mussels! I've had them in a lemongrass cream; garlic and butter ones at an Italian restaurant, served over pasta and marinara; smoked mussels; and one time my mother was gifted way too many, so she pickled a few cases in jars. They turned out delicious and nice to have anytime.🙂 They are also tasty in a fish chowder. Thanks for the videos! (now I'm hungry!)
They sound delicious Wendy, next time I will try a different recipe. Thank you for watching!
Ruthさん.自然はいいですね〜
でも、寒そうですね。
今回は、食べるシーンが多く感じました。
巻き寿司はおいしそうでしたヨ。
いいナ〜
スコットランド！
Ruth ! I can feel your excitement, and it brings me such a huge smile, and a giggle. You are such a real genuine person, and naturally cheerful.
What an absolutely lovely place to stay!
I love the Walks 😁
Thank you Ruth!
Happy New Year to you!
- British Gal living in Washington State.
Thank you very much, I'm glad you're enjoying the videos.
Oh my god, if only I was 40 years younger and living in the northern hemisphere, I would definitely come a courting. Ruth you are so adventurous, brave, enthusiastic, intelligent and happy. I so enjoy your videos. It brings back so many memories from when my beautiful late wife and I visited Scotland in the 1980’s. If you ever find yourself in New Zealand I would be more than happy to point you towards the best spots.
Thank you for watching, Paul! New Zealand looks beautiful🙂
first time I picked mussels I was gathering the big ones when a lady who knew more about them said, oh no honey, pick the smaller ones, they are much better. She was right and I enjoyed many meals of them in the years that followed.
That's good advice, thank you for sharing!
@@ruthaisling My pleasure Ruth, you are welcome.
Ruth personality an enthusiasm is addictive.
Always a can do an very pleasant in her Scottish travel videos.
The Scottish accent❤
All❤
Thank you very much, I'm glad you're enjoying the videos.
5:08; My mother installed on of these above one of the three fire places when she renovated a home when I was a teenager. Very handy as she refused to use an electric dryer, especially with six children. Pulling up the heavy wet clothing was fun.
That's a lot of clothes, but a great idea! thank you for watching.
Drying clothes in America is by gas or electric dryer. In Cebu we just hang the clothes outside and let the sun dry them. I remember my mother putting the clothes on a long clothes line with a pulley so she could run them out as far as 50’. This was 1955,I really don’t remember if we had a dryer for clothes, just the washing machine with an electric roller on top to squeeze the water out of the clothes.
That's interesting! Thank you for sharing.
That food looks so good! I love cheese and Riesling wine, also. Love your vids, Ruth! ❤
Ah nice! Both are great!
I love Mull and OMG, what a location and what a lovely wee cottage!
We had a pulley just like that on the kitchen when I was wee. I'd forgotten all about that!
Also, the sushi looked delicious and tomatoes, olive oil, Balsamic vinegar and basil: one of my favourite food combos! 😛😋
Another amazing journey. I love the pulley to hang clothes by the fireplace. That's genius! :)
I agree
Very enjoyable video! Our family visited Scotland this past summer spending most of our time in the Highlands and Islands where we have cousins. Since we live in the other Scotland -- Nova Scotia -- on the west coast of Cape Breton Island, we can easily relate to this environment including the gale force winds! I can look down at the sea just below our house and watch the evening sunsets over the Gulf. All the best in the New Year!
We visited Cape Breton last year. What a gorgeous place! We especially loved staying at Meat Cove.
You are fortunate.
That sounds really beautiful, Cathy! Thank you for sharing.
What a nice, warm, polite, kind atmosphere I found in this video.
Thank you 😊
Ruth thank you for sharing this, i have been married for 32 years and when i first met my wife we had a stay where you are. We loved watching this and remembering what we did , the walks and watching the setting sun with a glass or two or thee bottles of wine.
Thank you Dave, I'm glad you enjoyed watching the video.
Love this video Ruth! Mull is high on my list and we may do in 2025 after our huge Japan trip.
I am so chuffed for you seeing an otter. How exciting for you 😍 That cottage looks so cosy and what amazing views!
Iv never even thought to look at reviews of places like shops!? Although I take them with a pinch of salt.
Winter is my favourite time to travel around here in the Scottish Highlands.
Looks lovely and quiet on Mull perfect time to visit! Thanks for taking us along Ruth x
I'm so glad you enjoyed the video.
Beautiful place! Please do visit again and film!!
Fab channel Ruth, love it to bits, just brilliant, happy new year and keep safe and well for 2025. You asked for comments from us who make new year resolutions! one i make and try to keep is, DONT BE, Critical, Abusive, Sarcastic, Insensitive, Cynical, Obstructive, Difficult, and I to try to live in peace as much as i can with everyone. I am humbled when i fail and kick my self and try to be a better person.
Thanks John, what great goals! ❤
This was an excellent video. You saw your otter. Im so happy for you. Im lucky enough to have had that feeling. Two of them playing around my feet for several minutes before realising I wasnt a tree😊
What a perfect place this would be for you to write your book.
Wow did you really eat 2kg of mussels😮
Thanks for another wonderful video Ruth.😊👍
Happy new year Ruth! 😘🥰
Thank you Susie!
I love your videos! I recently bought a used van, much smaller than yours, just a bed really, but I wish I could teleport it and me to Scotland! Fun mussels eating tip: use a shell as pincers/chopsticks! Happy trails.
🏍️ PS, yes, it would be great to see and kearrn more of this island! Ty
Thanks for watching.
I would like to say 'Thank you, Ruth' for showing Scotland to me. My grandfather was born on Skye and he so wanted to go back for a visit, but unfortunately, he passed away before doing so. I have told my family about your vlogs so that they too can share in the wonder of Scottish lifestyle and nature. The history that you share, is also very informative. Maybe when on Skye again you could consider a tour of Dunvegan? I love the way you saviour the whiskeys and beer! The mussels looked yummy, should also do the mussel soup with cream.
Thank you for the recommendation, I will try it! Thank you also for watching, I hope the videos inspire your family to visit.
Pulley is called “a Sheila Maid “ great for drying clothes .. 😊
I didn’t know that’s what they were called!
I didn't know that. Thank you for sharing Susan!
A lovely location and spectacular colours whether stormy or sunny..Well the cottage,what can I say, I could easily stay there..absolutely delightful and preferable to a tent and mouse as a neighbour on St Kildas. It has been a privilege to have shared your adventures in 2024. Happy and adventurous new year !
For my birthday in 2023 I went to Scotland with my best friend. It had been a dream of ours since we were children. We visited Mull and stayed a short ferry ride from there in Ardtornish. We rented a gamekeepers cottage and it was the highlight of the entire trip! It poured rain for most of the time and I absolutely loved it anyway! When we were on Mull, we visited the Duart Castle and walked the grounds. It was an experience I will never forget. I absolutely fell in love with the area. I will be going back there again soon. I love your channel, Ruth. Happy New Year!
There is so much to explore! Thank you for watching Maggie.
I’m so glad you finally got to see an otter. I love watching your videos. I’ll never get a chance to see all these wonderful places in Scotland. I usually see Perth (my husband’s hometown), Edinburgh, and a few other places (our last visit included a week in a lovely cottage on Skye), so seeing all the other places through your eyes is a real treat.
Skye is a beautiful place, and so are Perth and Edinburgh. I'm glad you are enjoying the videos!
I think you’re going to have 500,000 subscribers by next January. Or maybe even more. What a blessing it is to armchair travel with you.
That's very kind Cynthia, I'm glad you are enjoying the videos!
So wonderful Ruth, thank you so much for sharing this wonderful little video. Love the cottage and your groceries and your cooking style. 🙂🙏
Glad you enjoyed it!!
@2:46 the guest book entry is from Tommy and Polly Shelby, Small Heath, Birmingham... 🤣
This was my brothers favorite island. I also visited with him & my husband. I don’t think I will be able to visit again now on my own. Please visit Calgary bay where John has a memory bench for his wife. ❤
I'm glad you have been able to visit. Thank you for watching Ruth! I'll try and visit Calgary Bay next time I'm there!
Who needs a TV 😂,in such a beautiful place. Rain or not, I'd still go hiking ❤
I agree, the views are incredible!
Hi Ruth! Love your channel! Yes we have those clothes drying racks in Hungary. As specially in the old high ceiling apartments in Budapest. We call them fregoli
PS: Happy New Year🎉
Thank you, same to you!
Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
Thank you for the reminder!
I like how you always show what food you bring. I have 2 🎉 places booked in rather spring. One is for 2 weeks in Tobermory and o e for 5 days on the beach in Ayr. You've given me some good ideas. It will definitely safe me money from eating out every night. Also, what a cozy cottage! Happy belated birthday🎉
Sounds like 2 great trips!
@ruthaisling it's all one. I used to live in Ayr but fell in love with the western Highlands and islands in 2014. I save my old home town for last each trip. I'm in Scotland 46 days again this spring. Maybe one day I will book self catering on Hartis but so far I always stay in the Harris Hotel. They have a wonderful restaurant and separate snug bar. I would like to book self catering for 2026.
Well Ruth....2 things, you should always drink wine that sounds like your name R eisling😂
And you certainly got the 'seal' of approval in this video 😂😂
I'm glad you enjoyed the video, thanks for watching.
Wonderful video, I felt like I was there with you...Great cooking too. Those mussels!! Would love to see more of Mull!
As a child I regularly played on the small sandy beach close to the cottage with the boys that lived in the big house by the pier. Great memories!
Sounds like fun, thank you for watching.
If you have established that your difficulty in sleeping is down to a nutrient deficiency, it is a strong prompt that you need to adjust your diet, not just to take a nighttime drink