About the local area

We are very fortunate that Scotland, in particular Strontian and the Ardnamurchan peninsula, is rich in an abundance of wildlife, walks and interesting things to see and do.

Upper Scotstown, a peaceful, rural township is situated 2 miles from the lovely village of Strontian which is located at the head of Loch Sunart, the longest east-west sea-loch in Britain, which separates the lands of Morven and Ardnamurchan. Ben Resipol (summit: 2774 feet), located nearby, provides stunning views of the area - even if you don't make it to the top!

For those of you who are energetic, there are walks to suit all levels of expertise based around the croft and we can also provide local OS maps for those of you who are interested. See www.johndyeexpeditions.org.uk for some excellent local walks. A range of cycle routes are also being developed by Forest Enterprise.

If you prefer a bigger challenge, then try a hike up Ben Nevis (www.nevis-range.co.uk) which as well as being a munro is also the highest mountain in Great Britain - www.munromagic.com - or any of the other munros in the area. (Nevis Range, Glen Coe etc.)

Glencoe is only about an hour's drive away (via the ferry) and provides not only fantastic walking and skiing (www.ski-glencoe.co.uk) but is also the site of the filming of the new Harry Potter movie. If you fancy a packed lunch, then just let me know.

Ardnamurchan Point is a great drive and takes you to the most westerly point in Great Britain. There is a lovely café and a viewing point from which you can see the islands of Eigg, Rum and Skye as well as dolphins, seals and sometimes whales. Also, whale and dolphin watch cruises can be arranged locally.

If you fancy going over to Mull, then catch the ferry from Lochaline to Fishnish. You could then spend the day exploring Mull - perhaps a visit to Tobermory, or take another ferry over to Iona to visit the Abbey and perhaps visit Staffa. CalMac are the local ferry operators in the area www.calmac.co.uk.

A bit closer to home, you might like to take a step back in time and travel aboard the Jacobite Steam train (www.steamtrain.info) which passes over the Glenfinnan viaduct and which has had starring roles in many films - or perhaps take a cruise on Loch Shiel (www.eaglecruises.co.uk) - but remember to take your camera.

As you can see, the possibilities are endless. I hope that this gives you a taster to come and visit and explore the area for yourself.