Loch Maree, 12 1/2 miles long and three miles wide, is one of the finest jewels in the Highland crown; named after the Irish monk Maelrubha (d.722), the loch's beauty has enchanted artists and, indeed, Queen Victoria. The water's liberal scatter of pine-covered islands are now in the care of Scottish Natural Heritage. This area retains one of the few remaining fragments of the ancient Caledonian pine forests and is home to red and roe deer, golden eagles and peregrine falcons. The impressive Torridon peaks are well-known to climbers but for walkers the lower slopes, too, offer really magnificent views.
We visit the immense corries of Beinn Eighe, within Britain's first National Nature Reserve, and walk to Glen Bianasdail - a typical U-shaped, glacier-carved valley. As a contrast, we offer coastal walks to Red Point and Rubha Reidh with their sandy beaches, sandstone sea cliffs and abundant birdlife.
On this trip there will be the opportunity, on the free day, to visit the famous Inverewe Gardens, created in the 19th century by Osgood Mackenzie and noted for their Himalayan and New Zealand plant collections. Alternatively we can arrange a boat trip from the hotel to take a closer look at the more than 60 islands in Loch Maree.
Walking Grade
The emphasis is on a leisurely pace with time to observe and interpret the area, its history and wildlife. We usually spend 5 to 6 hours walking up to 8 - 10 miles (12 -16 km). Gradients are generally easy and much of the walking is on paths, although these can be rough in places. Basic fitness required.
Accommodation
Loch Maree Hotel was built in 1872 and has a great sense of tradition. It boasts magnificent views across the loch and is renowned for its fine cuisine. All bedrooms have en suite facilities.
Notes:
Dates: 29 July 2006 - 05 July 2006
Start: Saturday, Inverness Station 13:30
Finish: Saturday, Inverness 10:00
Cost: ¸635
Price Includes: 7 nights in Hotel based on Dinner, Bed & Breakfast, 5 days guided walking.
Single Room Supplement: ¸70
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Scotland
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