BENDERLOCH

The village of Benderloch, which lies on the shore of Ardmucknish Bay, is overlooked by the forested Beinn Lora, which is just 308 metres high, but a walk to its summit offers wonderful views of the Firth of Lorn and Mull on the way up, and further afield from the top. There is a waymarked trail through the forest on the approach to the summit. As well as walking, there is a segway centre for those wanting to explore the area by gliding along on a Segway personal transporter. For golfers, the nearest course is at the Isle of Eriska Hotel, which also has a croquet lawn. Water-based activities include diving and fishing charters and sea kayaking. Near the village, in an arable field, is an ancient standing stone nearly 2 metres high which, it is thought, once formed part of a stone circle. There are a number of other stones buried nearby. Across the bay from Benderloch is Lochnell Castle, which includes architecture from four main periods between the end of the 17th century and the end of the 19th century, and is currently occupied by the Earl of Dundonald. During World War II, anti-aircraft gun positions were set up at the castle.

Map of the area.

Benderloch from the Ben Lora hill path. - geograph.org.uk - 113378. Photo by Colin Smith, via Wikimedia Commons.