PADDLER 116
Through the clouds a window forms . Alchemy , where the sun goes to rest . Whilst Eigg stands so stark ( in gathering dark ) Her signature , Written Gold on the sea
PADDLER 116
UNDER A SPELL
Our timing meant we had considerable water under our hulls as we glided down the North Channel . As we passed Shona Beag , Castle Tioram dominated our return . In this light , the castle appeared intact , even inhabited . We were indeed under a spell of some sort . The spell continued with an easy landing , only to be broken by ‘ welcoming ’ midges and the speed of getting changed .
A good forecast for day six ! And the decision to go north ( ish ). Launching at Mallaig we quickly escaped the morning bustle and smells of the harbour and headed into beautiful Loch Nevis . Original plan , Inveree . Why ? ' Cos there ’ s a pub there , but as the Dubliners once sang , “ But there ’ s-a nothing so lonesome , morbid or drear than to stand in the bar of an of a pub with no beer .” Closed for refurbishment ! Never mind , Sarah had arranged a fabulous meal at the Arisaig Hotel . So we paddled with enthusiasm for an ‘ early bath ’ but not before lunch on another fantastic white sand beach on the North side of the Loch , overlooked by a statue .
Our wonderful adventures were now drawing to a close . On our last day , we visited beautiful Loch Morar to explore the islands at the Western end . We watched a white-tailed Sea Eagle as we gently glided past the nest high on a tree . She had a super location . Her nest was sheltered with access to Morar and a few wing flaps of the coast with its pristine white sands .
And our trip ended as the sun disappeared somewhere to the west . Behind the islands and setting beautiful memories . As John said , “ Memories until we come back .”
Through the clouds a window forms . Alchemy , where the sun goes to rest . Whilst Eigg stands so stark ( in gathering dark ) Her signature , Written Gold on the sea