Don’t leave Loch Lomond until you do these two activities. One is low cost, and worth so much more, and I would bet that it will become an all time favourite whatever age you are. The second is more expensive but good value for the experience and memories.
And honestly, what could be more important than memories?
Just back from another tour of Scotland, these two activities stood out in our trip as extra special, super photo opportunities and memory making.
Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre
A 20 minute or so walk around the Loch shores at Alexandria from the Cameron House Hotel where we were staying and you reach this hidden gem of a place, nestled in the trees and shrubs not far from the Loch Lomond Shores visitor complex. It’s easy to spend a whole morning or afternoon at the centre, getting to know all of the birds of prey, the friendly staff and watching one of their flying shows (weather permitting).
It’s a special place for me. Take time to speak to Stewart, (Director) members of his family that work with the birds or in fact any of the staff and you will quickly understand how much this is a passion, a ‘labour of love’ and not a job. They rescue and rehabilitate many of the wild birds you will see there and it’s one place you can get to see a Golden Eagle up close.
They do fantastic ‘experiences’, from meet the Owls, meet the birds or a hawk walk. These and the sponsorships of a bird make great gifts, both for the receiver and the bird! Just click HERE to find out about these. This year we sponsored an Owl for my grown up son (he loves Owls), Birkita – but she was moulting at our visit, a time when the birds like to keep themselves to themselves. He had an Owl Experience with Bosch the Snowy Owl instead – amazing. I am going to do a separate blog post on the centre, with more pictures and videos but for now just look at these images below to see the love between this bird and Stewart.
Ok, you can tell I am passionate about this place, so go on, whatever the weather head there, enjoy, learn about these beautiful birds and support their work.
I love to see the Seaplane taking off and landing right by the Cameron House Hotel. Our Island Explorer Flight for 45 minutes flew west over the Kintyre peninsula, towards Kyles of Bute and Loch Fyne. We had good views of the Islands of Jura, Isla and Gigha on our flight. Fantastic scenery and great seats. The whole operation was very professional, very informative and good value from our perspective. It gets pretty booked up, I booked this surprise trip for the three of us about 6 months ahead, and people at the hotel were trying to get seats during their stays but they were fully booked – good for them, they are so popular!
It’s a must do, but perhaps for a special occasion or special treat, as it’s a more expensive activity. Scotland is so beautiful and the islands off the West Coast are spectacular and there is no better way to see them than this aerial view, so add it to your must do list!