We took our coffee stop overlooking Loch Creran – a sea loch at a spot called South Shian. Across the water it was called North Shian. Like most of the west coast, the prospects pleased the eye although a blue sky would have been good.
At least the sun shone on the mountains near Port Appin.
Our location was by a salmon processing plant. The odd huge, articulated lorry trundled along the little lane.
Local flora included the delightful montbretia – really quite commonplace in West Scotland.
Our meal over we headed towards Glen Salach, our route taking us past Barcaldine Castle. My attempt to photograph this structure were laughable. The castle is clearly used as some kind of conference centre and stopping and parking were impossible. In any case, for a short while only, but at that time, we had stair rod rain. At one point I could see the castle in a rear-view mirror. I opened a window and snapped a total disaster.
Fortunately, if one wanted a photo, my passenger did better than me, able to take a direct shot from a moving car.
We continued into the Glen Salach Forest. This is north of Loch Etive.
With the car safely parked in a lay-by, we had a look at the stream that runs through this glen as it passed under the road.
It was really quite gentle, and so, too, was the weather. The stair rods of a few minutes earlier had gone and a largely clear blue sky was now in operation. It was just right for enjoying the Scots pine trees.
Our wanderings took us from the forest and into a more open area.
This was countryside I could cope with. I don’t have to climb to the top of hills, but I do like countryside where I know I could get to the top if I chose to. The big sheer hills can be very daunting and enclosing for me.
It looks as though these two thought it was OK.
There was lovely mixed herbage. We had stumbled upon a small area which captured me for its gentle peace and beauty.
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Yes, here was a place where every prospect pleased.
Far below us was Loch Etive.
It was time to retrieve the trusty vehicle and head off down there.
