From Mull to Canna and the remote Mainland
This morning we explored Tobermory. Some went on a vigorous walk to a waterfall and lily pond at Aros Park with Rick and others on a historical town walk with either Steve or Konia. Alternatively, the shops were calling with many craft items, a particular favourite was the hand-made chocolate! Photographers were happy too, as Tobermory was either bathed in sunshine or glistening in the rain – making the multi-coloured houses stand out even more. We then sailed out into the Sound of Mull past Rubha nan Gall lighthouse and later past Ardnamurchan Point and lighthouse on mainland Britain’s most westerly point.
After an introduction to the islands by Konia and a talk on landownership in Scotland by Steve we reached the Island of Canna. This is a truly special place, owned by the National Trust for Scotland, it has 12 residents (unless you count the youngster that stays at Mallaig High-School during the week). As today is Saturday, the population should be 13. Rick, who knows the island well from his west coast sailing adventures, led a walk to an early Christian cross, taking in many of the historic and scenic features of the island. And that’s what makes this island – the serenity and plenty of things to see. You could go and see a small craft shop on the pier with an honesty box, or the protestant church with a wee exhibition, or how about the fabulous tea room and restaurant? You can look up in disbelief to the medieval prison tower on its rocky perch or stroll around Canna House gardens. All around eagles soar, rabbits hop and curious seals view the visitors. There is something here for everyone!! A great day was had by all.
Before dinner, Rick told of some of his adventures in Antarctica with humans and dogs. Our dinner sail was very scenic, past Rum and Eigg and onto Inverie on Loch Nevis. This small village prides itself as having the remotest pub on the British Mainland – it’s only reachable by foot or boat, as it is not connected to the main road network of Britain. And after a truly remote pint, and sporting the t-shirt to prove we’ve been here, we were off to our cabins.
