Book description
Mysterious Scotland presents an extraordinary array of the weird and
wonderful heritage of the country. Michael Balfour examines strange
stories from the moors, forests, rivers, holy wells and lochs, where -
as well as the old legends and dark secrets which he prises out of
palaces, castles and cathedrals - he finds monsters, ghoulies,
unsolved murders and ancient cures.
Investigating a land where the past is reflected in the present, the
author has roamed all around Scotland, exploring standing stones,
mermaid beaches and magic springs. He seeks out new theories about the
prehistoric, Celtic and Pictish stones, carvings, tombs and brochs
which are scattered across the country. Among his many wonderful
discoveries, he unearths long-forgotten prophecies, puzzling tales
from the bothies, consuming traditions and distillers' tricks, and
finds evidence of the legendary Highland second sight. Not forgotten
are the great historical figures who throng the pages, each making a
unique contribution to Mysterious Scotland.
This book is the perfect introduction to the amazing hidden history
which permeates Scottish lives and landscape.
Publisher and writer Michael Balfour has lived near the Stones of
Stenness in the Orkney Islands and beside Loch Tummel in Perthshire. He
has reviewed books, written for The Scotsman, and is the author of
several books including Stonehenge and its Mysteries and Megalithic
Mysteries.
