Lochs, stalks, and barrels (of gin!)

Inverewe Gardens and the whole area round Gairloch have been wonderful (assuming you're quite happy with constant drizzle) ; a feast of sultry sea lochs, massive trees, and fantastic gin, distilled locally in Badachro.

Usually, I'm vaguely peeved if I can't listen to Radio 2, but this week, I've discovered a wonderful thing: 'Two Lochs Radio'.

Broadcasting from what appears to be a shed in Gairloch, the station is truly eclectic. Music ranged from Breton bagpipes to Ariana Grande - there was something for everyone. But it was the announcements I fell in love with...

"Yoga classes have restarted on Mondays in the hall. Get in touch with YogaBob for more details...."

"Mrs McFarlane's dog, Alistair, has brought home a blue teddy bear. If it's yours, just pop into the hotel and pick it up..."

It was lovely being somewhere where everyone said hello, and had time for a chat (unlike Edinburgh, where people tend to assume you're an axe-murderer if you smile at them without first being formally introduced.)

Wester Ross...I'll be back very soon. Just let me know when the sun's out please.....