Jays in Farigaig Forest

Jays are often sighted in Farigaig Forest on South Loch Ness Side and will come to feed at bird tables in the cold winter weather. They usually go about in pairs and are always beautiful to see with their stunning blue flash of colour.
Watch the local Fairigaig Jays feeding in a garden.

Snow arrives in the Highlands.

Snow fell over the weekend making Loch Ness very picturesque.The birds need extra feeding. 

First snow of Winter

The first snow this Winter fell over the weekend and covered the higher ground. All the ski resorts in the Highlands have a good covering which is good for the sporty people who enjoy going out in cold temperatures. More snow is forecast and strong winds for Scotland. Photos to follow.

Life in the leaves

Most of the leaves have now fallen off the trees in Farigaig Forest making a colourful carpet on the ground. The Jays are regularly spotted pecking at the leaves and chucking them about in their search for acorns, their favourite food. They also make a guest appearance on local bird tables and will eat any bird food put out. They are very colourful when they fly away usually accompanied by a shrill calling sound.

The red squirrels are often seen dashing about in the woods searching for any left over berries, hazel and beech nuts lying on the ground. They have now grown their winter ear tufts ready for the cold weather ahead.

Just William

Friends were recently taking the previous walk mentioned [Camerons Cottage to Whitebridge walk] and had not gone far when they were surprised to see a very large wild black goat in the middle of the path. As they got nearer the goat casually jumped over the low wall and in to the shrubbery beyond where it continued eating. They could get quite near the animal and were amazed at the size of his horns which were at least 2 feet long. A local came by with his dogs and told us the goat was a local too and was known by the affectionate name of William....much posher than Billy! He has often had to shoo it out of his and his neighbours gardens....a brave man. He has also seen William with his harem of lady goats and young kids. This is when it is extremely wise to avoid getting too close as William will charge at any dog while protecting his family.On the return trip to Camerons the goat was standing in the centre of the path munching away, it was lunch time. Being a bit wary of the beast and the size of the long sharp horns they waited patiently until it had moved along and round to the right hand path leading down to the River Foyers. Sadly they had no camera but will be going again ready for action to take photos and maybe a video of this wonderful wild animal.

Walk from Camerons Cottage to Whitebridge.

Another local walk with photos sent in by our guests......thanks.
Leave Camerons Cottage, turn left along the farm track and walk to the road. Turn right and walk up the hill for a very short distance and take then next left turn along a lane passing several small cottages.

Stand on the wee bridge and take a look at the River Foyers plunging into the Lower Foyers Waterfall.

Carry on walking along the farm track, looking back at Camerons Cottage in the distance.

Go through the forest until you reach a metal gate. Here you can either stop for a breather and walk back, or, for a longer walk, go round the gate and carry along the track. There is livestock in the fields so a dog must be kept on a lead. A perfect walk for all dog lovers.

After a pleasant easy stroll the path runs beside the River Foyers again and the views are quite magnificent.

The path takes you through the Dell Estate and eventually to the small hamlet of Whitebridge where there is a welcome Hotel/Pub for refreshments.

Day out at Loch Ruthven

Guests recently enjoyed a wonderful sunny Autumn day out at RSPB Loch Ruthven, a short pleasant drive from Camerons Cottage. They kindly sent in their photos to encourage other guests to visit.
This loch is the most important Spring breeding site in the UK for the rare Slavonian Grebe. Walk by the side of the loch and sit in the bird hide for closer observation and photos.In Spring and Summer keep an eye out for other bird species and the amazing diving ospreys.

For more information on Loch Ruthven.

Walk to the 'wee pond' from Camerons Cottage

Guests staying at Camerons Cottage recently enjoyed a walk through Farigaig Forest to the 'wee pond' and kindly sent in their photos. This is one of the many walks you can enjoy from the cottage.

From Camerons Cottage turn right along the farm track and then left along the marked path up into Farigaig Forest. Pass Easter Boleskine wetlands pond and admire the panoramic view overlooking Loch Ness. Walk through the forest to the small peaceful tree circled loch 'Lochan Torr an Tuill',also known as the 'wee pond' by locals,and rest on the picnic bench to soak up the view. On a clear day the reflections are wonderful. Lately the forestry have been clearing trees, making the area seem brighter and the water lilies are now reappearing. 

Continue walking up to the high view point overlooking the white cottages of Inverfarigaig village.Then stroll down along the forest track and turn right down to Farigaig Pier jutting out on to Loch Ness. Carry on the forest track to access Loch Ness beach and rest on the chairs provided. 
Keep going along the forest track to Foyers and home to Camerons.

The end of their day was completed with a stunning sunset disappearing on the hazy fields.