Meeting fairytales in person

Although we boarded a train for what seemed the hundredth time in the last week, the rhythmic movement and repetitive noise didn't lose its charm. Scottish trains range from scrap metal to modern machines; however, they are a fantastic way to discover the country. Next stop was a small village of Glenfinnan, caught between loch Shiel and Glenfinnan viaduct, which had a special, rather magical meaning for us.

When I say we, I mean my little sister and myself, who have always had trouble getting along. Vast differences (for example, constantly laughing at me for being a 23 year old Harry Potter fan) made even being friends impossible. Travelling and Scotland played a big role of bringing two estranged sisters closer together.

Firstly, we wandered downhill towards loch Shiel. Main road is hidden in a thick forest, but as it grows thinner and thinner, a spectacular view opens before ones eyes. It's the essence of Scotland, Of its stillness, silence and majestic natural features, all incarnated in one single vista. The air smelled of rain, warm, wet moss and undiscovered adventures as we approached the loch, almost expecting to spot a Nessie-like monster peeking out of the dark water. No wonder filmmakers chose this spot as the background to Hogwarts, it can only be described as magical.

A barely-there hiking trail interrupted by countless streams of fresh, freezing cold water; led us behind the viaduct, also heavily featured in Harry Potter films. Exact same valley was suddenly completely transformed due to the beautiful arched structure partially obstructing the lake. This is why I travel, to witness places where human craftsmanship and skill meets stunning natural beauty in one place, creating a peaceful, calming balance, which we call history.

More and more unforgettable vistas were opening when we followed meandering wooden platforms back to the train station, carefully placed between delicate colourful lichens, moss and unique flowers. While being possessed by amazing surroundings, the Jacobite museum train crossed the viaduct, turning an already magical panorama into a surreal scene with its steam engine, whistle and clouds of puffy smoke disappearing into thin air.

We didn't talk at all until we sat on the next train. Overwhelmed by experience, we just smiled at each other and we knew. In the next days, we watched all Harry Potter movies and became best friends – what we were always meant to be, just didn't have the opportunity to realize it.