After breakfast we decided that we’d take a short walk from the campsite into the village of Arrochar – only about 3 miles away. Although there was actually a pavement along the whole route it was buried in over 6” of soft snow. So instead we did a bit of a “dance” along the main road, walking as fast as we could along the road, which was now clear of snow, and then hopping onto the snowy verge every time a vehicle drove past. It took us quite a while to reach Arrochar – but it didn’t matter, as the weather and scenery were so gorgeous.
Enjoying the view close to Arrochar
In Arrochar we got some basic provisions and had a coffee at the “Village Inn” hotel. Here we met one of the young bar staff who was originally from the Island of Islay, and who told us about some excellent annual events on the island, and its neighbour Jura. It was such a shame because this young lady was clearly very fond of her home island, but was forced to come to the mainland to find work. Lack of employment in many of these islands is driving the next generation of islanders “abroad” and makes one wonder what the future holds for many of these fantastic but fragile communities.
Pine trees at the Ardgartan campsite
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