I celebrated Hogmany in Scotland during 2011-2012 while I was on winter break from Cardiff University. I was studying for my Masters in Ancient Greek and Roman Archaeology in Wales and did not have the money to go all the back home to the States for Christmas break so I was invited by a friend to stay with his family in Scotland. And I’m glad I said yes. I had already been to Scotland on 10 separate trips at this point, but this took my love of the country to new heights.

My friend’s family lived in a wee village outside Aberdeen called Stonehaven. Their house was outside the village just a few miles from the coast which was a beautiful setting overlooking the ocean and lush green rolling hills. The town’s sandy seafront and picture perfect harbor is home to some of the region’s top eateries and nearby is one of Scotland’s most renown sites, Dunnottar Castle.

Dunnottar Castle is a dramatic cliff top fortress that was the home of the Earls Marischal, once one of the most powerful families in Scotland. Steeped in history, this romantic and mysterious ruin is a photographer’s paradise, a history lover’s dream, and an iconic tourist destination for visitors the world over. Of course, I had to visit this epic castle to see for myself. When I arrived though, they had just stopped last entry. I was 5 minutes late so was not able to enter. I was devastated. But, I was undeterred and resolved to get into the castle some way other another.

The entry to the castle was on a small spit of land jutting out of from the ocean, so the only other way to enter the fortress was to scale the cliffs. And I did just that. I found a good spot on the cliff-side and started to make my climb. My friend’s mother was understandably worried while she was watching me climb 100 feet vertically into this castle. After some hard climbing and a few near missteps I made it to the top of one side and then proceeded into an open window in a ruined tower. It was well worth it. Although a mostly ruined castle, the dramatic landscape and rich history makes it a fitting jewel in the crown of Scotland’s great treasures.

Stonehaven is one of THE top places in all of Scotland to celebrate Hogmany. Every year they have what’s called the ‘Fireball Festival’ where you’ll see Scotsman in their traditional kilts waving giant fireballs through the center of town. All of the villagers and revelers from around Scotland come out to enjoy the spectacle. I had to join in the fun so I put on my own kilt and suited up to be apart of the annual tradition. We had an absolute blast and if you’re ever in a position to be in Scotland for Hogmany don’t miss out!