June 9 - 15 Sat - Fri
Group Size: 9
Starting Point: Glasgow
Based: West Loch Tarbert (Kintyre)
Walking: Easy
Description: Few areas of the Scottish Highlands embrace the charm, romance and scenic content that collectively characterise Argyll and its islands. Tempered by Gulf Stream waters the climate is incredibly mild, promoting lush vegetation and long growing-seasons. One of the greatest concentrations of historic sites on mainland Scotland occurs, especially in the Kilmartin Valley. Described as a ritual landscape it features many ceremonial burial monuments, spanning a period of over 5000 years.
Its wild areas are havens for Golden Eagles, Wildcats, and Red Deer; forests host a wealth of small passerine-birdlife (Argyll is the most wooded area of the UK); and a much indented coastline accommodates many waterfowl and seabird species together with marine mammals and Otters.
An exploration of Knapdale Forest – described by the Forestry Commission as their most scenic property – is a central theme. It is here that European Beavers have been reintroduced to Scotland. We see evidence of their tree-felling and observe the animals near their lodge during an evening watch.
Days are spent on the Islands of Gigha and Luing – sheer magic – two of nature’s wild gardens that receive a minimum of visitors. We also visit the surf-washed coast of the Kintyre Peninsula with its serene views across to the Antrim coast of Northern Ireland.
This tour caters especially well for those seeking a get-away-from-it-all experience with excellent wildlife content – birds, mammals, butterflies and wildflowers – and lots of memorable walks.
Itinerary
Day 1 Saturday: Morning rendezvous Glasgow Central Station (rail), or Glasgow Airport 30 mins. later. Travel to Argyll via Loch Lomond and Loch Fyne, with a visit to Moine Mhor (raised bog) by the Crinan Canal.
Days 2 - 6 Sunday - Thursday: Excursions with walks around Mid-Argyll, visiting Kintyre, Knapdale and the Islands of Gigha and Luing.
Day 7 Friday: Return to Glasgow for mid afternoon where the tour terminates at the airport, or rail station 30 minutes later.
Cost: £950...Includes: Accommodation; all meals plus packed lunches; all travel.
Deposit: £100
Single Room Supplement: £85
