Tobermory and Torosay Castle & Gardens
The squalls lessened during the day, replaced by gorgeous sunshine. It was still extremely windy with strong gusts, so we didn’t sail, but this gave us a chance to enjoy Tobermory and an additional castle on the lovely Isle of Mull.
In the morning we had a choice of a stroll through town on our own, a guided ‘city walk’ (in a small town) with Konia or a vigorous walk with David and Ian.
After lunch Stevie, our Isle of Mull guide and driver, took us to Torosay Castle. This is a fabulous mansion house, designed by Scotland’s foremost architect of the Scottish Baronial Style, David Bryce. It was built in 1958 and belongs to the James-Guthrie family. Jacquetta James, the owner’s mother, took us around Torosay Castle and the gardens herself. This was a very witty and personal tour. We were entertained with many family stories and made very welcome. For example, you’ll find signs in the castle inviting you to take a seat (rather than ‘do not sit here’).
Part of the formal garden is a statue walk with Italian statues by Bonazza (18th century), roses creeping along the walls and herbaceous borders. The more informal part is a water garden with two burns (creeks) running through them and a large pond. Here the candelabra primulas are glowing in the sunlight in yellow and pink, the astilbes are coming into bloom and the green of rodgersias, gunneras and many beautiful trees and shrubs are providing a wonderful background within the gardens. Down by the shore the views of the surrounding area are stunning, with the mountains of the mainland in the distance and Duart Castle across the brilliant blue bay.
After recap and dinner, many of us finished the day with a visit to the Mishnish Pub or with a stroll along the seafront, watching the sky go pink as the sun set in the west.
