Applecross to Skye

The red deer are looking shaggy and unkempt, but tamer than ever.

Who could call these wild animals now when they are so used to close proximity to us. This lot were as tame as the deer in Richmond Park. Lovely beasts that they are, there are few forests for them to roam in now, and food and salt licks left everywhere out on the hills to boost their poor diets. I am forever amazed that the estates still place such a high reliance on income from hunting tourism. Where the enclosures keep them out, the regrowth is rapid so hopefully the corner is turned but many of the deer will have to go.

The red Cuillin of Skye in the background. Applecross is one of the most cut-off villages on the west coast with the 2000' pass to cross on a single track road, closed in winter. Great food in Applecross house with superb fresh seafood from the bay and fruit and veg from the walled garden.