Botanical Wonders of the West Coast

Tuesday 6th to Tuesday 13th May 2025

Scotland’s west coast and Inner Hebrides are home to a diverse range of world-class gardens. All are unique, not only for their exotic collections, but also for the wild, untamed beauty in which they stand, with unsurpassed views.

Tuesday 6th May

When all guests had embarked in Oban, we set sail for our overnight anchorage in Craobh Haven.

Wednesday 7th May

Our first garden visit was the plantsman’s paradise of Arduaine Gardens, now in the care of the National Trust for Scotland, ablaze with vibrant rhododendrons and other spring flowers.

During lunch we sailed to Scalasaig, Colonsay for the afternoon visit to Colonsay House Gardens, a woodland gardens designed in the 1930s to complement the natural landscape.

We anchored overnight in Ulva Ferry South.

Thursday 8th May

This morning guests travelled to the hidden gem of Lip na Cloiche Gardens, where they were welcomed by the owner Lucy Mackenzie. After a tour of this self made garden with far reaching views over Loch Tuath, homemade refreshments were served in the cosy kitchen.

We spent the afternoon cruising past the Small Isles and the west coast of Skye on passage towards our overnight anchorage in Loch Bay.

Friday 9th May

After a morning spent relaxing on board as we cruised past the north coast of Skye, we arrived in Gairloch for our afternoon excursion to Inverewe Garden, Sir Osgood Mackenzie’s masterpiece.

We anchored in Shieldaig overnight.

Saturday 10th May

After morning walks ashore in Shieldaig, we sailed to the Isle of Raasay where guests enjoyed walks on the island and Raasay House was open for refreshments.

During dinner we arrived and berthed alongside in Kyle of Lochalsh where we remained overnight.

Sunday 11th May

From Kyle of Lochalsh, guests travelled to Attadale Gardens, with its impressive collection of sculptures hidden amongst the 20 acres.

In the afternoon we berthed alongside in Armadale, Isle of Skye where guests explored the ruined Armadale castle and woodland gardens.

We anchored overnight in Loch Scresort.

Monday 12th May

After a morning cruise past the Small isles, round the Ardnamurchan Peninsula and into the sound of Mull, we arrived and berthed alongside in Oban for our final visit to Ardchattan Priory Garden, first planted in the 13th century by Valliscaulian monks.