The Scottish Seabird Centre, a Hidden Jewel

Located off the beaten path in North Berwick, Scotland is a little spot most visitors to the area never get the chance to see. I was fortunate enough, when in the U.K. with my sister and her husband, to see the sign on the highway just in time to take the exit. We were glad we did as it was one of the best days of a two week trip.

When heading to this peaceful little town one might think they have taken a wrong turn somewhere; traveling down tiny country roads until shortly the vista opens up to reveal the stunning Firth of Forth. Arriving early in the morning, prior to the center's opening time, you get the opportunity to see the town awaken. It is a typical Scottish village, but just off its shores lies a majestic wildlife sanctuary on Craigleith and Bass Rock.

The center itself is an educational mecca for both children and adults, but the highlight is a tour on the Seabird Safari out to the islands themselves. Even in the summer it is possible to get a seat on the boat, but advance reservations are highly recommended as they sell out quickly. If you have come all the way out to see this you don't want to be caught without a chance to get closer.

The tour is an hour in duration, but flies by (no pun intended) so quickly amidst the awe inspiring spectacle. There is no landing, but you get so close that it is not necessary. The first island is Craigleith with a chance to see puffins in their natural habitat. The best time to see them in great numbers is the end of March, beginning of April, but even during the summer months they are visible.

The second island is Bass Rock. Over 150,000 gannets flock here every year and provide a fantastic pageant of flight. In fact, Sir David Attenborough once proclaimed it as "one of the wildlife wonders of the world," and so it is. The gannets are graceful as they catch the wind and coast onto the rock to reunite with the same partner every year. There are so many flitting about that one cannot simply pick one spot to gaze upon. Between the sound of the waves crashing and the birds cackling one cannot help but call this a wildlife symphony.

Once you leave the safari and the Seabird Centre take a moment to look around the town itself. It happens to be the birthplace of John Muir, and while not well known in his native land, he is famous for his conservationist work in California. Muir Woods, in the northern part of the state, even bears his name. The town itself is a quaint example of a Scottish village, and makes a perfect day trip from Edinburgh.