Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Scenery in Loch Long and Loch Goil

I said in yesterday's posting that I'd publish some photos from the sail on the Waverley up Loch Long and Loch Goil.

The weather was very overcast for most of the sail, but there was no rain and the lighting effects were superb. I think Scotland is at it's most dramatically beautiful when the clouds are low over the hills.


The first photo is over over the stern of the Waverley as we drew away from Blairmore.
Then on to a view of the slopes above Loch Long.

The lighting in this shot looking back down the upper stretch of Loch Long was spectacular.

As was the light on the hills to the west.

This is a view of Carrick Castle on the western shore of Loch Goil. It is believed to have been built in the 12th century, but it is likely that the present Carrick Castle is the second structure to occupy this location. The first may have been a hunting lodge for the kings of Scots. It is recorded that Mary, Queen of Scots visited here in 1563. A Campbell stronghold for over three hundred years, it was captured during the Argyll’s rebellion, by Atholl. The victors pillaged and burned it and completely destroyed it by fire in 1685. It is now owned by Alex Fleming who has undertaken its restoration.
The sun broke through for a short period at the head of Loch Goil.

The is looking down Loch Goil towards Loch Long.

2 comments:

Katya said...

In all honesty, in looking at this series of pictures as an American, it really is like looking at a fairy tale! I mean, we don't have castles. And, wherever there is a lake here, there are houses, cottages, and whatever else might be SQUEEZED into the minutest of lots! The sunlight shining down from the clouds seems to blanket the hills in a mystical shroud...

These are even more great photos and a wonderful tour!!!

Christine McIntosh said...

Good day, eh?