Argyll & Bute

Our road trip began two mornings ago when we left Edzell on the east coast of Scotland and headed west across the Highlands & Trossocks to the western islands.

We stopped for a picnic along the banks of Loch Lomond and again for tea and shops at Inverray along Loch Awe. The sights we saw were breathtaking and cameras just don’t do justice to the height and depth of the Scottish scenery. My better photos are in the camera (these will post later) but to give you some idea I will post iPhone photos here.

Our first night destination was Tarbert in Argyll & Bute. We stopped for dinner in the town before settling in at Bluebell Cottage our B&B for the next two nights. Graham is our host here and gave excellent advice for our Wednesday, August 20 adventure.

Jim & I were up early to make the 745 ferry from Kennacraig to Port Askrig on the island of Islay. Ferry crossings along the island routes are common for all supplies and tourists wishing to go to the more remote places. Our morning started with a first ferry ride of 2 hours, followed by a second journey of 5 minutes to our actual destination of Jura.

Family history and whiskey lead us to Jura. It was well worth the journey! Jura ferry lands about 8 miles from the village of Craighead. We left the short ferry ride and were taken by small coach over narrow single track road through the Paps of Jura to the village. The weather could NOT have been better! We spent about 4 hours on Jura and I hated to leave. The quiet and remoteness were stunning. Also the sea glass was plentiful so my pockets were full of the best pieces I have ever found. Reds, cobalts, and perfect pieces of dark greens and aquas will come home with me!

At the village church I was so delighted to discover a treasure of a published book written by Grandma Wren’s first cousin, Mary Sandeman. Mary is the aunt of my recently discovered cousin James from Glasgow area. I phoned James while at the church to ensure he had a copy go the book which he did and we chatted about his fond memories of life on Jura with Mary and his other family members.

From the church to the Jura Whisky distillery we walked. Jim managed the hike well and when he would stop to rest I scanned the shoreline for treasures. I also visited and chatted with staff at the Jura Hotel where my Grandmother Wren stopped in 1928 when she traveled to Jura.

We made our return journey and arrived back in Tarbert about dinner time when we met up with Irene’ who had not traveled with us to Jura but had spent her quiet day at Blue Bell Cottage then taxied into Tarbert as the dinner scout. We enjoyed locally caught seafood, salmon (do not pronounce the “l” please) and haddock. No haggis so far this trip but I’m determined to find some today.

Before returning to BBC we ventured out beyond BBC to see Skipness Castle. Magnificent views and scenery. My photos really do not do justice.

Today we head for Ft William via Oban. Catch us if you can!