Wednesday April 27th

 We were lucky enough to have been lent "Silver Fir" in Dornie, which served as a base for a number of great walks, of which today's was the first. We set out to walk from Balmacara Square to Kyle of Lochalsh (Walk 5 in the green "Pathfinder" guide). However, we were directed to take a path nearer to the road and which stayed close for about a kilometer. We then climbed up to much more open moorland and it was much more pleasant, with lots of small flowers and gorse.


We could see a fire to the north, which was producing huge billows of smoke.

Moorland Fire, creating smoke visible and pervasive for the rest of the day
We tried to pick up the route from the Pathfinder guide on the way back, but there was no clear path through the scrub and woodland. This was certainly not so appealing so we retraced our steps and enjoyed a rest at the top where the views towards Skye were amazing.
Skye, the Skye bridge and The Cuillin
It really is a beautiful area and the lichened birch, gorse, rocky outcrops and ferns on the walk today were magnificent. Jacinta even persuaded David to have his photo taken!
David and Gorse
As we picked up the car we were able to meet a local at Balmacara Square- a lovely location.
A local at Balmacara Square

We went "home" to a really nice supper. 5.9 miles, 450m ascent.

The smoke from the moorland fire persisted into the evening, giving a real contrast between the views from Silver Fir in the morning and evening.

View from Silver Fir in the morning of 27th April

View from Silver Fir in the evening of 27th April

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