Benmore Botanical Garden

It’s been another beautiful blue sky day and P, J and I were away early to drive to Guorock where we paused to buy ferry tickets at the Coop. They apparently cost twice as much on the ferry itself, so that was a win. It was a twenty minute journey across to Dunoon with views of Great Cambrae and the Arrochar Alps with Ben Lomond in the distance. 

Once berthed at Dunoon we drove the five or so miles to the botanical gardens, the younger sibling of the Edinburgh Botanical Gardens. It stretches across the mountainside and has the most majestic trees: an avenue of Sequoia greeted us as we took the gate into the garden. 

Unfortunately the garden has suffered storm damage and many trees have had to be felled on the upper slopes which has meant the closure of those trails until they are cleared. Nevertheless, there was much to enjoy including a restored Victorian Fernery.  We should return in May when the rhododendrons and acres will be at their best.

My blip is of Dolphin Pond planted around with Japanese acers with its glorious mountain backdrop.

After our visit we drove back to Dunoon and lunched at a cafe close to the shore with fine views across the water, before driving straight on to the return ferry.  Another excellent day in good company.