Autumn in the Highlands 2009

**Darkislander** · 29th November 09, 07:11 AM

In mid-October I took one of my wee coaching holidays to Mallaig. Here's some photos to chase away the winter blues.
First stop, the famous view of Glenfinnan Monument set at the head of Loch Shiel. The monument is in tribute to the Jacobite Clansmen and is maintained by the National Trust.

Look right from this high viewpoint and admire this beautiful setting for a church.

**Darkislander** · 29th November 09, 07:14 AM

Just a slight turn from there unveils the famous "Harry Potter" railway.

Indulge me 1 more shot. Who can resist these autumn colours of Loch Sheil?

**Darkislander** · 29th November 09, 07:17 AM

Here's one for Alex again, just parked in the car park at the monument.

Another day takes us to the Caledonian Canal lock, filling ready for some boats to move through.

**Darkislander** · 29th November 09, 07:20 AM

Notice how the boats are not sailed through but pulled by rope. Looked hard work.

Our party had the choice of a day trip to either Sky or Rum. I chose Rum. Here's the view as we sail from Mallaig.

**Sir William** · 29th November 09, 07:21 AM

Very nice. Brings back memories of my 2006 trip, though I did that in the summer. I liked the Glenfinnan Monument though my kids were more enamoured with the railway viaduct.

**Darkislander** · 29th November 09, 07:23 AM

The scenery just improved the whole journey over to the Isle of Rum. This is the "Sound of Rum"

This is how we got here. Glad the weather was good !

**Darkislander** · 29th November 09, 07:28 AM

Here's the view as you step off the boat.

Now, there's not a lot to do on Rum unless you like walking, bird watching etc as it is a national nature reserve. If that's not for you, you can pay a visit to Kinloch Castle. Built in 1897 for Sir George Bullough, a rich Lancastrian industrialist whose father bought Rum as a sporting estate.

**KFCarter** · 29th November 09, 07:29 AM

Thanks for posting these beautiful pictures!

**Darkislander** · 29th November 09, 07:31 AM

Here's a sneak peak inside.

And so, my 5 day visit draws to a close. As I look out of the hotel window on our last evening, I grabbed my camera to capture the sun set over the Isles.