Armadale, Isle of Skye
Morning at Inverie brought high winds and heavy rain, so the crossing over to Armadale on the Isle of Skye was ‘bumpy.’ However, we made it safely and walked the short distance to the Clan Donald Centre for a morning enjoying the bountiful gardens plus the excellent interpretive centre that explains clearly and chronologically the history of the Clan MacDonald, and the coming into being of the “Lords of the Isles” with the clan system that followed, both of which so sharply identify this part of Scotland.
Following lunch back on ship we split into two groups, one of which crossed the island for a visit to Dunvegan Castle, home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod, who have lived continuously in Dunvegan for over 800 years. Our other group left the coach at Sligachan, about halfway across the island, for a hike in the dramatic Cuillin Mountains. The little river next to the hotel was in full flow thanks to all the rainwater draining off the hillsides. The misty clouds that clung to the mountaintops added considerably to the dramatic atmosphere. Despite the day remaining blustery and wet, both parties had enjoyable visits on this the largest of the Hebridean islands.
The wind, though, disrupted our original plans to set sail during dinner for the Isle of Eigg, so instead, we remained alongside at Armadale Pier. However, the surprise advantage of this was that we were able to return to the Clan Donald Centre after dinner to enjoy a traditional Scottish “ceilidh” (kay-lee). This is very much a multi-generational community event of singing, music and energetic and enthusiastic dancing. The young musicians who provided the music were excellent and the local people were very warm and welcoming to our group of American, Swiss and Austrian novices.
A very enjoyable way to round off what had been a full day on the Isle of Skye.
