Last night I was sitting calmly on the couch reading when there was a loud noise like and explosion and then the cottage was shaking. It only lasted a few seconds. I learned this morning that it had been an earthquake not far from here and one which was actually felt for 100 miles! Who would have thought?
A light dusting of snow greeted me this morning and the trees were wrapped in frost that glistened in the early morning light. It was another day of just walking on the estate and taking in the sheer beauty around me. Two otters were swimming in the loch as I walked by – too far to get a good photo of them even with my long lens. Perhaps I will see them again. I also discovered an unusual outgrowth on a tree in the woods that looks like the head of a deer or some other creature. I half expected to be part of a scene from the Lord of the Rings and have the tree and this creature spring to life!
Ardtornish House, a unique Victorian mansion rich in history, sits at the head of the loch and is an impressive place to say the least. This distinctively charming retreat can be rented out in its entirety and is used often for weddings. It is surrounded by well kept gardens and must be striking in summer when all is in bloom. More wandering is in the days to come – the northern lights were visible last night but I did not see them and tonight it was cloudy. Maybe one of these nights I will get lucky.
