Kilchurn Castle

Today's the day .  . . . . . . . . . . . . to take the high road

We were up with the lark today and set off in a northerly direction on our way to the Outer Isles.  The weather forecast had been dire and we were expecting to drive through sleet and even snow - but in the event it turned out to be a perfect day for travelling with sunshine and blue skies all the way.  We drove up through Ayrshire and to the west of Glasgow over the Erskine Bridge. Then we had a glorious drive the length of Loch Lomond to Crianlarich, west to Tyndrum and then to Oban.  

The above is Kilchurn Castle on Loch Awe which we passed on the way.  It was built in the mid-1400s, and it remained the base of the mighty Campbells of Glenorchy for 150 years. After the first Jacobite Rising of 1689, Kilchurn was converted into a garrison stronghold, but was abandoned by the end of the 1700s.

On arriving in Oban, we called in to see blipper Maurice - the original 'grumpy old man' - and his spectacular garden.  Most people would be daunted by the steep slopes leading up to his house with its commanding views over the bay - but he is more than able to make the most of them. It was a real treat to stand on that famous veranda and see all his special ferns and other plants.  Thanks Maurice!

And tomorrow we set sail across the Minch . . . . . .