Day Four

Les in studious mode
The oakwoods were totally unspoilt
We liked this skeletal tree!
Intrepid hikers
View over the loch from the Sunart Oakwoods

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Day Four (T):

It's about 9:30 am and we have all slept in this morning, safe in the knowledge that we didn't have a ferry to catch, or any shopping to do. I am sitting in the conservatory, listening to the rain, looking out to the loch gently rippling, and watching three oyster catchers which have been sitting on 'Jim's rock' for ages. Every so often one of them shuffles and the one at the front goes to the back, but they stay on stoically under the pouring rain. The hills opposite are shrouded in mist today and I suppose this is the real Scotland! It's certainly what Dave and I had been expecting so we have been very impressed so far with the amount of sunshine we've enjoyed.

Day Four (L):

Well today was more typical of a Scottish holiday - rain and grey skies but thankfully not cold. We took advantage of the weather to sleep in and then read our books, magazines and newspapers, also to write a few postcards. We finally ventured into Acharacle to buy a few provisions, and had a walk through the oak woodland on the far side of the loch. Such an amazing variety of vegetation; of particular note, the mosses and lichens. I am pleased with how I managed the terrain with the help of stick and Jim!! No pine marten tonight - we were late in so missed his supper time - hope he comes during the night.

Day Four (J):

The Salen Inn provided the evening meal. We were sat in the porch area near the door so that the inquisitive members of our group were able to see all the comings and goings. An elderly couple getting into their wet weather gear made us think - is this us in 10/15 years' time? Also of special mention was the beer - '80/-' ,pronounced 80 shillings in a soft Scottish burr.

Day Four (D):

I'm not sure if 'a soft Scottish burr' was the manner in which the barman spoke or the state of our heads after a wonderful meal and a few drinks. Thankyou, friends, for allowing me to fall off the wagon (well, comparatively!!)

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A few more photos can be found if you click http://picasaweb.google.com/PapamanPicasa/4GoToScotlandDayFour