contributed to an excellent morning of outings. Part of the group set off with David for the Eilean Donan castle, one of the most well-photographed castles in Scotland, and a figure in many movies. Much of the castle’s structure dates back only to the 20th century, as it was renovated by Colonel MacRae who restored it for the Clan Macrae. After visiting the castle, the group traveled to the small fishing town of Plockton, the village peaceful and quiet under the sunny skies. Palm trees were noted, growing at this far northern latitude due to the Gulf current that keeps the climate fairly warm.
A second group spent the morning with Robin and Eric hiking in the spectacular Sligachan Glen that runs between the volcanic Cuillin mountains on the Isle of Skye. The heather was just beginning to bloom, adding a pink-purple hue to the surrounding moorlands. A few of the hikers turned back early to have time to enjoy the famous Sligachan pub with its hundreds of whiskey offerings before we returned to our mooring in Kyle of Lochalsh.
In the afternoon, we left the Kyle of Lochalsh, sailing to Armadale to visit the Clan Donald Centre, with its informative museum. There we learned about Highland history and the Lord of the Isles. The Centre’s ruined castle with its surrounding picturesque gardens provided many photo opportunities, and Eric shared photography tips throughout the afternoon.
Our evening sailing took us from Armadale to Inverie on the Knoydart peninsula. The small village is only accessible by boat or a long walk, and is home to Britain’s most remote pub. Before dinner, David gave a presentation on the Highland Clearances, and the events leading up to this period of time when Highanders were forcibly removed from their homes to make way for sheep farms. After dinner many took the opportunity to visit the Old Forge Pub to sample the ale and purchase the famous T-shirts.
