Tobermory was glorious this morning in the sunshine that stayed with us all day. We walked around town, explored the shops and of course took plenty of photographs of the lovely multi-colored houses.
Back on board we headed west, whilst Konia Tack gave a talk on the history of lighthouses in Scotland, their engineers, and lighthouse keepers and the obstacles passed to build these lifesaving structures.
We passed Ardnamurchan point, the most westerly point on the British Mainland and still headed west–as we had a special treat in store, only accessible on calm days: The island of Canna.
We reached here after lunch and had the rest of the day to explore the island as we stayed overnight.
Konia offered a walk with information on life and wildlife on the island today and in the past. We discovered the history of Coroghon Castle, the three churches on the island, Canna house, and finished off at the Celtic cross at A’Chill with the pillory stone (see picture). This tranquil island is connected to the island of Sanday by a bridge and has a joint population of only 26.
Living here is very different to life on the mainland. Due to a family with four children moving to the island the primary school re-opened last week. Groceries come by ferry, which can run only on good days in winter sometimes less than twice a week. A doctor visits from the neighbouring island of Skye for house calls twice a month and a policeperson comes twice a year. A peaceful place indeed.
After dinner many of us set off to the only pub/café/restaurant on the island for a wee dram or a cuppa enjoying the dramatic sunset colours in the sky followed by some Gaelic singing in the café. We then headed back to our floating home with its lights twinkling in the dark.
