Loch Scardroy

BoATS, originally uploaded by Bexley98.

Great weekend at the top of Strathconan, which is in my top 5 most beautiful places in Scotland.

Loch Scardroy (pictured above) is at then end of single track road that runs down Strathconan and past 3 amazing trout lochs and some stunning scenery, if you’re visiting the Highlands of Scotland and like taking pictures, ensure it’s on your list of places to visit.

Unfortunately, due to the elevated height of the glen, the weather is always rough, the high hills funnel the wind down the valley and I’ve only ever seen a flat calm on Loch Scardroy twice in 10 years. The wind however is a blessing because it keeps the midge (a nasty little black fly that swarms and sucks blood) at bay.

There is any number of good walks in the local area, the fishing is excellent (and affordable!) and the wildlife, most notably the birdlife is really diverse. There is a nesting pair of Peregrine falcons in the area, Golden Eagles, Black & Red throated divers that whilst elusive would make a great photograph. Just remember a compass, an Ordinance Survey map and waterproof clothing.

Anyway, due to that fact that we were fishing in a rowboat, the photographic opportunities were limited. I would like to praise my Lowepro AW camera bag…the all-weather cover got a good soaking and my camera gear was bone dry whenever I used it. Another must have accessory if you’re taking pictures in Scotland.

Despite the elements, wet boat and difficult conditions, I was able to get a few half decent shots. The one above is probably my favorite of the shots I took. You can see the rest on my flickr, or even more on my Picasa site.

I’ve got a wedding to go to this Friday (my niece), so I hope to get a few good snaps at that. Then a weeks holiday and (hopefully) some camping on Scotlands west coast.