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WHAT’S ON IN AND AROUND THE OUTDOOR CAPITAL OF THE UK
SEPTEMBER 2011
FREE Events & Entertainment Attractions & Activities Eating Out Shopping
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>>WELCOME to What’s On in the Outdoor Capital Welcome to Lochaber, the Outdoor Capital of the UK. We believe it’s the best place in the UK for everyone to enjoy the outdoors. It’s home to the UK’s highest mountain (Ben Nevis); deepest sea loch (Loch Morar); most westerly point (Ardnamurchan Lighthouse) and you’ll recognise Glenfinnan Viaduct from the Harry Potter movies – just like him, you can take a ride over it on a steam train! We have outstanding landscape in which you can ski, climb, walk, cycle, kayak, fish and dive, plus much more. Explore beaches that match any in the Caribbean, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture which abound in the area. Discover ‘Wild Lochaber’ – from summit to seabed, the area is home to rare and iconic wildlife such as red deer, otter, eagles, pine martens and porpoises. We’ve packed this guide with all you need to know about what’s going on in the Outdoor Capital – inside as well as out!
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Green squares on adverts show grid references for the OCUK map within this guide.
Cover photo: Segways Tours www.glencoeactivities.com | Photo this page: www.nofussevents.co.uk | What’s On designed for OCUK by www.wagtailgraphics.co.uk Fort William
WHAT’S ON – SEPTEMBER 2011
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WHAT’S ON – SEPTEMBER 2011
What’s Hot This Month? BEN NEVIS RACE 3rd September An amateur race up and down Ben Nevis. Britain's highest mountain - 4406 feet. Attracts around 500 competitors each year and is one of Fort William's oldest outdoor activity events. The idea is simply to run from the Town Park to the summit of Ben Nevis and all the way back again - as fast as you can! Current record is 1hr, 24mins ! The event is a great spectator sport and provides lots of opportunities for photos. New Town Car Park, Fort William, 1pm. WHOLE WAY WALK 4th September 2011 At 79 miles, this must be Scotland's longest guided walk. Join the Great Glen Way Rangers as we walk the entire length of the Great Glen, starting in Fort William and finishing in Inverness six days later. This is more than just a walk, however. During the days, a range of guest speakers will join the group to talk about different aspects of the Glen, its culture, its people and its history. There will also be refreshments, cups of tea, blister plasters and sympathy from the Ranger team at lunchtimes as well. Booking is essential. Get in touch with the Great Glen Way Rangers for more details! Tel: 01320 366633.
THE SINGING KETTLE 25th September 2011 Pirate Party Ahoy Shipmates! Scotland’s favourite children’s entertainers, The Singing Kettle set sail on this special 1-hour non-stop concert style performance of Pirate Party. Nevis Centre, Fort William, 2pm. THE HIGHLAND WARRIOR TRIATHLON 11th September 2011 Highland Warrior was staged for the first time in 2010 and has proved it has the potential to become a legendary race within the triathlon community. 1900m sea loch swim, 90km road bike on a stunning scenic course and a 21km run in Glen Nevis. In 2011 it will be the triathlonscotland Scottish Middle Distance National Championship.
LIVING HISTORY CLANSMEN DISPLAYS 4th September 2011 Alba Adventure will bring history to life at Glencoe with several exciting presentations throughout the day demonstrating dress and weaponry of the Jacobite era. Find out how to wear the belted plaid and get a close up view of the fierce weapons of the period! FREE. To Book please call 0844 493 2222 or e-mail glencoe_events@nts.org.uk
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WHAT’S ON – SEPTEMBER 2011
SEPTEMBER 2011 REGULAR EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT THROUGHOUT SEPTEMBER.
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Every day throughout September CRANNOG CRUISES. Come aboard Crannog’s cruise boat and enjoy the stunning scenery and majestic wildlife of Lochaber. Cruises depart from Town Pier Fort William PH33 7PT, will last around 90mins and are weather dependent. Crannog, Fort William. Tel: 01397 700714
Monday to Friday throughout September
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Every Tuesday and Thursday throughout September
the Summer. For further details of fixtures and venue see www.shinty.com
LOCHABER SCHOOLS PIPE BAND Listen to the sounds of Lochaber Schools Pipe Band as they play a selection of traditional tunes for your entertainment in Fort William's High Street. The band performs most Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the summer months. Cameron Square, Fort William. 7.30pm-8.30pm. FREE.
Every week throughout September
Every Wednesday throughout September ÀRAINN SHUAINEIRT - THE SUNART CENTRE Mother & toddler group, FREE, 10:00am–12:00pm. Yoga for 16 & over, cost £5; 7:30pm – 9:00pm.
BEN NEVIS DISTILLERY Take a tour around the distillery. On the hour from 9am – 5pm. Tel: 01397 702476
INFORMAL MUSIC SESSION Local musicians playing traditional folk music at the Ben Nevis Inn, Achintee. 8.30pm. 01397 701227.
Every Monday throughout September
Every Thursday throughout September
ÀRAINN SHUAINEIRT - THE SUNART CENTRE Drop-In Exercise Session (with DVD). All welcome, FREE, 4pm – 5pm.
ACHARACLE PRIMARY SCHOOL Step Dance Classes, all welcome, cost £1; 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Every Monday & Thursday
GLENUIG HALL Yoga for 16 & over; cost £5; 7:30pm – 9:00pm
SEARCHLIGHT SAFARI WITH WILD WEST. We will go out after sunset to look for the creatures of the night. Start times vary. Cost: £30 per person. Please phone 0333 123 2820 for details and bookings.
Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday night LIVE MUSIC AT THE ALEXANDRA HOTEL Live entertainment at the Alexandra Hotel featuring either Paula MacAskill or John Cameron who will entertain you with a selection of traditional and popular music. 9-11pm. FREE - there is no charge for entry, just come along, relax and enjoy the talents of a live musician and their music.
Every Thursday and Sunday in September MORNING LAND ROVER SAFARI Let us transport you through Glencoe, going slightly off the beaten track. We’ll give you three hours of history, geology, wildlife and more! Booking Essential, please call Glencoe Visitor Centre 0844 493 2222.
Every Friday throughout September OSSIAN’S DISCO Until 2am. Hip hop and bop the night away with this late night opening disco every Friday and Saturday night. Middle of Fort William’s High Street.
Every Tuesday throughout September
Saturday Afternoons throughout September
SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING 8pm-10pm. Adults at Kilmallie Hall, Corpach Tel: Joy Biggin 01397 772459 / Norma MacLellan 01397 772597.
FORT WILLIAM SHINTY CLUB The game of Shinty is an exciting, fast paced sport predominantly played in the Scottish Highlands.Come along and see one of Scotland’s top shinty teams in action. Fort William Shinty Club play most Saturday afternoons throughout
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ZUMBA LOCHABER Tuesday 5.15pm & 6.15pm. Wednesday 5.15pm & 6.15pm. Thursday 10.30am & 5.15pm & 6.15pm, Friday 10.30am. ‘Ditch the workout and join the party’ at Kilmallie Hall, Corpach. Tel: 07519 703998
DAILY EVENTS
1st September 2011 ARISAIG: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE A good walk over paths and sheep tracks, passing the hidden croft and Arisaig House, the wartime billet of the SOE Commandos. Tel: 01687 462983
1st & 2nd September 2011 SDA DOWNHILL MOUNTAIN BIKING EVENT Running on the Glencoe Mountain Resort track, it is free for spectators so why not go along and watch some of the best mountain bikers in the UK do their stuff!
2nd September 2011 ALL OR NOTHING AERIAL DANCE THEATRE Present Uncharted Waters: All or Nothing & Strangebird Zirkus are two companies at the forefront of a dynamic new performance style emerging in Scotland. The Sunart Centre, 8pm. Tel: 01397 709228 THE TWO LAIRIGS - MEDIUM LEVEL GUIDED WALK - A guided walk through Glencoe's two lairigs; Lairig Eilde and Lairig Gartain. This full day hill walk will take you right through Glencoe following a historic coffin trail towards Glen Etive and back through the parallel valley. Tel: 0844 493 2222. WHITE ROSE Dougie & Kevin are guitar and mandolin wizards guaranteed to'shoogle yer sporran'. Clachaig Inn Boots Bar, Glencoe. Tel: 01855 81125. LIVE MUSIC Bob Ferguson of Celtic Horizon. Loch Leven Hotel. Tel: 01855 821236.
4th September 2011 LIVING HISTORY CLANSMEN DISPLAYS Alba Adventure will bring history to life at Glencoe with several
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toughest triathlon. The challenge is a 1900m sea loch swim, 90km mountain bike and 21km hill run to the summit of Ben Nevis and back.
6th September 2011
HALF BIG BEN NEVIS TRIATHLON Running alongside our Big Ben Nevis triathlon this short course option, is 950m and 45km mountain bike section and 11km run to the halfway point on Ben Nevis and back. Still a grueling distance to any multi sport athlete. www.nofussevents.co.uk
FIVE LOCHS, MALLAIG A lovely hill walk giving views of the Small Isles, whilst tramping the heather past the sparkling waters of five hill lochs. Tel: 01687 462983
8th September 2011 OLD SCHOOLS AND STUNNING VISTAS, MORAR Follow the old county road along Loch Morar side before taking to the hills to experience the view of a lifetime. Tel: 01687 462983
10th September 2011 THE BIG BEN NEVIS TRIATHLON This event has become iconic to No Fuss and to many is classed as the UK’s
BLAS 2011: MAGGIE MACINNES AND COLUM SANDS. Inspired by the fascinating story of the boat which once plied the waters between their ancestral homelands, Maggie MacInnes from Barra in the Outer Hebrides and Colum Sands from County Down have woven a bi-lingual tapestry of songs old and new. The Sunart Centre, 7:30pm.
Photo: www.wildoutdoors.info
WHOLE WAY WALK At 79 miles, this must be Scotland's longest guided walk. Join the Great Glen Way Rangers as we walk the entire length of the Great Glen, starting in Fort William and finishing in Inverness six days later. This is more than just a walk, however. During the days, a range of guest speakers will join the group to talk about different aspects of the Glen, its culture, its people and its history. There will also be refreshments, cups of tea, blister plasters and sympathy from the
Ranger team at lunchtimes as well. Booking is essential. Get in touch with the Great Glen Way Rangers for more details! Tel: 01320 366633.
Photo: John Hepburn
exciting presentations throughout the day demonstrating dress and weaponry of the Jacobite era. Find out how to wear the belted plaid and get a close up view of the fierce weapons of the period! FREE. To Book please call 0844 493 2222 or e-mail glencoe_events@nts.org.uk
WHAT’S ON – SEPTEMBER 2011
3rd September BEN NEVIS RACE. An amateur race up and down Ben Nevis. Britain's highest mountain - 4406 feet. Attracts around 500 competitors each year and is one of Fort William's oldest outdoor activity events. The idea is simply to run from the Town Park to the summit of Ben Nevis and all the way back again - as fast as you can! Current record is 1hr, 24mins ! The event is a great spectator sport and provides lots of opportunities for photos. New Town Car Park, Fort William, 1pm. continued...
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WHAT’S ON – SEPTEMBER 2011
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HIDDEN HANGING VALLEY - MEDIUM LEVEL GUIDED WALK - COIRE GABHAIL Come and enjoy a walk to Glencoe's Hidden Valley. This walk takes you up into the hidden valley where fantastic views of Glencoe can be seen. Learn about the local environment and maybe glimpse a sighting of a red deer or even a golden eagle. To book call 08440 493 2222
17th September 2011
ANYONE FOR GRAVY? A 4 piece funk/rock cover band, and are popular on the live gig circuit. No backing tracks and no lipsync guaranteed, what you hear is what you get! Clachaig Inn Boots Bar, Glencoe. Tel: 01855 81125.
UNIQUE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP AND LOCH CRUISE A unique cruise aboard the historic MV Sileas on the beautiful, sheltered waters of Loch Shiel for a 1 day workshop. Phone Eagle Cruises 01687470 322 or 07801 537617.
LIVE MUSIC The return of Scott MacDonald. Loch Leven Hotel. Tel: 01855 821236. LOCHABER DOG SHOW Show off your dog at the main event of the dog club calendar in Lochaber and beyond. Tel: 01397 712834 for full details. Nevis Centre, Fort William, 10am.
13th September 2011 LOCAL HEROES, ARISAIG A gentle walk to a panoramic viewpoint, followed by a stroll along the beaches whilst learning a little about the various molluscs. Tel: 01687 462983 ORPHEUS IN THE UNDERWORLD Offenbach’s irreverent romp features some of the funniest dialogue and daftest situations in French opera. Nevis Centre, Fort William, 7.30pm.
14th September 2011 BLAS 2011: Cherish the Ladies with Kristan Harvey & The Sanna Celebrating 25 years as the most successful and sought-after IrishAmerican group in Celtic music history. The Sunart Centre, 7:30pm.
15th September 2011 CAVES AND CLEARANCES, ARISAIG Visit the 'Soap Cave', enjoy the hidden coves of dazzling sand and drift into the minds of the people of the Clearances. Tel: 01687 462983
16th September 2011 BLAS 2011Celebrating the 50th anniversary of Lochaber High School,we bring back to the ‘Fort’ some of its now famous former pupils. With music from a star studded list. Nevis Centre, Fort William, 7.30pm.
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BIDEAN NAM BIAN - HIGH LEVEL GUIDED WALK A chance to walk up Glencoe's highest mountain, Bidean nam Bian, Peak of the Peaks. A full day walk in the hills will reward you with staggering views of stunning mountain scenery and perhaps a chance to glimpse some of the wildlife that lives here. To book call 08440 493 2222
PURE MALT Gordon and Tam perform with highly spirited folk and rock. Clachaig Inn Boots Bar, Glencoe. Tel: 01855 81125.
20th September 2011 GLASNACARDOCH SHORE, MALLAIG A circular walk from Glasnacardoch above the coastline to the 'Silver Sands', returning via the radio mast and the 'Lily Pond'. Tel: 01687 462983
22nd September 2011 DEEP WATERS AND SILENT POOLS, MALLAIG Climb to Loch Eireagoraidh for lunch, then circle round Beinn nan Caorach and back by way of 'An Leth allt' and 'Loch an Nostarie'. Tel: 01687 462983
23rd September 2011 LIVE MUSIC The return of Gary Anderson. Loch Leven Hotel. Tel: 01855 821236.
24th September 2011 ORANGE TOUR DE BEN NEVIS The race that took mountain biking back to the mountains. WELCOME to the No Fuss ultimate MTB challenge for endurance athletes and people with a sense of adventure. The event is about circumnavigating Ben Nevis starting from Fort William the Outdoor Capital of the UK. It is a 72km journey of discovery about our wonderful environment, about yourself and for some we have no doubt, about your bike. AN TORR WOODLAND - LOW-LEVEL GUIDED WALK A Short walk through the An Torr woodland. Hear the tale of the Glencoe Massacre and get views through the trees from the legendary
Signal Rock. Learn about the geology of Glencoe and some of the fantastic flora that lives here. To book call 08440 493 2222. UNIQUE BUSHCRAFT WORKSHOP AND LOCH CRUISE Have you ever wondered how you might survive in the Scottish Highlands if you found yourself in an real emergency situation? We will go ashore in a remote part of beautiful Loch Shiel and look at the landscape from the point of view of bushcraft survival resources. Phone Eagle Cruises 01687470 322 or 07801 537617. FLINT Bagpipes at the ready for a real hoolie! Clachaig Inn Boots Bar, Glencoe. Tel: 01855 81125. LIVE MUSIC The return of Gary Anderson. Loch Leven Hotel. Tel: 01855 821236.
25th September 2011 THE SINGING KETTLE PRESENTS PIRATE PARTY Ahoy Shipmates! Scotland’s favourite children’s entertainers, The Singing Kettle set sail on this special 1hour non-stop concert style performance of Pirate Party. Nevis Centre, Fort William, 2pm. PORT A BHATA, MOIDART A new walk on the path from Aird Molach to the remains of the old water mill near the ruins of the village of Port a Bhata. Tel: 01687 462983
29th September 2011 SHIELINGS & CAIRNS, ARISAIG An easy walk out to the remains of an old house then circling back via the Camusdarach Cairns. Tel: 01687 462983 MOSIAC WORKSHOP As part of the Glenuig Hall Mosaic project free Community workshops are being held. The workshops are open to everyone in the area. Please contact Helen on 01687 470322.
30th September 2011 SKERRYVORE & WOLFSTONE One of the best double bills this year, 2 of Scotland’s best band’s on stage with a thrilling finale when the 2 groups play on stage together. Nevis Centre, Fort William, 8pm.
See your listing here 01397 705765
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WHAT’S ON – SEPTEMBER 2011
Lochaber Wildlife As the SUMMER draws to a close and the nights become shorter some of the animals that were difficult to see over the summer become more visible. Look for Otters at dawn or dusk along the River Lochy or along the shores of Loch Linnhe and Loch Sunart. Otters breed all year round and so mothers may often be seen with cubs in tow. Watch out for the tip of the tail disappearing last as they dive – a sure sign that you haven’t been watching a seal. The red deer start to come to lower ground in the evenings as the nights get colder, but their minds are turning to only one thing, the rut, which starts at the end of the month. Pine martens are active now, and gorge themselves with seasonal fruit – raspberries, blackberries and rowan berries. Small curled droppings full of undigested rowan berries may be seen along most rural paths. The kits are now getting bigger, but will still be chasing each other around the trees. Badgers are busy foraging to prepare themselves for the winter. Bats are still flying in the evenings. Pipistrelles hunt around treetops at dusk, whilst Daubentons skim over the still or slow-moving water after dark. Why not join
a night safari to look for some of these night-time creatures? The butterflies of autumn should be gorging on nectar and fallen fruit. Typical species seen now in Lochaber include the colourful Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell, the Speckled Wood and the two migrant species, Red Admiral and Painted Lady. Similarly the last of the dragonflies are busy feeding and laying eggs. Common and Southern Hawkers hunt along forest rides, whilst the bright red Highland Darter may be seen basking on boardwalk. Try the path across the River Callop from Glenfinnan for good views. Text supplied by Jon Mercer, Glenloy Wildlife, www.glenloy-wildlife.org.uk, 01397 712700. Images- Peacock Butterfly by Derrick Moore and Otter by Chris Clarke.
TOP 5 WILDLIFE SPOTS 1. Glen Roy - red deer, raptors 2. Ardnamurchan peninsula - red deer, sea eagle, twite 3. Glen Garry / Kinlochuorn - red deer, golden eagle 4. Inchree Forest - red squirrels 5. Loch nan Uahm - divers, seals
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Useful Information
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CHEMIST- Lloyds Pharmacy located in the village of Caol 2 miles north of the town centre is open Mon-Sat and Boots the Chemist is located in Fort William’s town centre and open daily Mon-Sun. .
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MOBILE BEAUTICIAN - Alisha Gordon - 07785 347 769. TAXIS - There are a number of taxi companies operating in the Lochaber area and many are also happy, to arrange tours around the area if required. J & S Taxis can be contacted on 01397 701112 as well as Greyhound Taxis on 01397 703389. LEISURE CENTRES - Mallaig Leisure Centre- 01687 462229/ Lochaber Leisure Centre- 01397 704359
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TRAVELINE SCOTLAND - Not sure which route to take or how to get where you would like to go? Visit www.travelinescotland.com for information and route planner, to help you get around the Scottish West Highlands.
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TOP 5 WALKS 1. Castle Tioram & the Silver Walk - superb views and a magnificent 13th century monument 2. Glenfinnan Viaduct - get a different view of the steam train and Loch Shiel! 3. Inniemore - discover the sad story of this cleared community on the Morvern peninsula 4. Highbridge & the Commando Memorial - rich in history with spectacular mountain views 5. Daingean - explore the remains of a cleared village near Invergarry Full details available at www.walkhighlands.com
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LAUNDRETTE - Fort William’s laundrette is located in the Village of Caol 2 miles north of the town centre in Caol Shopping Centre 01397 701111 PARKING - There are a number of both short stay and long stay car parks available throughout Lochaber. Short stay car parks can cost anything from up to £2.00 for up to 3 hours whereas the long stay car parks charge around £2.00 for the full day. Visitors are kindly asked not to park overnight in laybys or .... and are asked to follow all.... and the Scottish Access Code while out and about.
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INTERNET ACCESS/ LIBRARY - Most of the larger hotels around Lochaber will offer free Wi-Fi to their guests however wi-fi is also available from MacDonalds Restaurant in An-Aird at the North end of Fort William and in the Fort William Library, located at the top of town near Nevisport- 01397 703552
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FUEL - There are Fuelling stations located at the following points throughout Lochaber• The Ben Nevis Filling Station on the A82. • Glencoe Filling Station. • Invergarry Petrol Station. • BP Road to the Isles on the A82. • Strontian. • Gleaner Fort William. • Morrisons, Fort William town centre.
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HAIRDRESSERS - Caol Cuts, located in the village of Caol 01397 702629.
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DOCTOR - NHS 24- 08454 242424 FLORIST- Forget Me Nots- 01397 701300.
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Listen to Nevis Radio, Lochaber’s local radio station on 96.6 FM and 102.4 FM
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“Full Menu, All Day, Every Day!” G3
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W: www.glenuig.com E: bookings@glenuig.com
See your advert here 01397 705765
T: 01687 470 219 M: 0795 735 6099
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WHAT’S ON – SEPTEMBER 2011
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Glencoe Mountain Resort Situated on the mountainside just off the A82 with stunning views across Rannoch Moor, over to Ben Nevis and towards the Buchaille Etive Mor, Glencoe Mountain Resort is an activities centre steeped in atmosphere and history. As the longest running ski centre in the UK, started back in 1956, it is famous for its thrilling snowsports terrain. What many people don’t know is that the centre is now open year round and has a great range of summer activities too! With hire bikes and trails on offer, there is a wide range of routes to explore for all abilities, the daredevils can even take the chairlift up and try the tougher downhill tracks. On September 1st and 2nd there is the SDA Downhill Mountain Biking event running on the track, it is free for spectators so why not go along and watch some of the best mountain bikers in the UK do their stuff! Archery lessons at the centre are popular too, or for a more
relaxing visit take the chair up and admire the scenery and wildlife the easy way! Even if you are just popping in for a short visit the log cabin cafĂŠ offers great food and a fantastic view from the panoramic windows.
VISIT GLENCOE MOUNTAIN RESORT FOR A GREAT RANGE OF FUN OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES STUNNING VIEWS AND GREAT FOOD IN OUR LOG CABIN CAFE
BIKING ARCHERY CHAIRLIFT WALKING VIEWS CAFE GLENCOEMOUNTAIN COM OPEN EVERY DAY ALL YEAR 10
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WHAT’S ON – SEPTEMBER 2011
Clan Cameron Museum The Camerons have lived in Lochaber since the 14th century and the theme of the Museum is to trace the history of the Clan from its early beginnings to the present day. It is located in the grounds of Achnacarry, the centre of Clan Cameron country and home of the Chief of the Clan and his family. Since its opening in 1989, the museum has been visited by clansfolk from all over the world and by many people interested in the history of the Highlands and the Jacobite cause. There is an extensive section on Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Risings of 1715 and 1745 in which the Camerons played such a crucial part. Also included are artifacts, photographs and information about the Commandos who trained at Achnacarry during World War 2 and who frequently return here to visit their old training grounds. Last but not least, you can also see a bridesmaid’s dress from the Royal Wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer in 1981. While in the area, you can also explore the Dark Mile, stretching from Loch Lochy to Loch Arkaig; a cave where Bonnie Prince Charlie took refuge after the Battle of Culloden; and Cia-Aig Waterfall. These impressive falls have a deep pool below them called The Witches Cauldron. According to legend, Cameron clansmen chased a witch, who had placed a curse on their cattle, over the falls to her death. This location was also featured in the Liam Neeson movie 'Rob Roy'. Round your trip off at the Commando Memorial to the north of Spean Bridge, where you will find a moving tribute to the elite soldiers as well as, arguably, the best possible views of Ben Nevis and Aonach Mor.
Contact the Curator: Mr. Denis Muir www.clan-cameron.org/museum E-mail: museum.achnacarry@btinternet.com Tel: (01397) 712480
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WHAT’S ON – SEPTEMBER 2011
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High Wire Adventure NEVIS RANGE Fort William
See your advert here 01397 705765
BOOK NOW on 01397 705825 Courses for all ages, min height 120cm
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Photo: John Hepburn
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WHAT’S ON – SEPTEMBER 2011
RELAX & ENJOY GREAT FOOD & GREAT VIEWS
Old Pines Hotel & Restaurant
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High Bridge Walk and lunch at Old Pines
The perfect way to enjoy the best of the Highlands The High Bridge walk is a 3 mile circular walk with views of Nevis Range, Spean gorge, Commando Memorial and the ancient ruins of High Bridge.
NEPTUNE’S RESTAURANT
Suitable for all abilities - allow 1.5 hours. Old Pines is on the walk and is open all day for tea & cakes and 12-3pm for lunches.
AT THE MOORINGS HOTEL
Fine Dining Restaurant & Freshly Prepared Bar Food
Park at the Commando Memorial just north of Spean Bridge or at Old Pines (left at the memorial - 200 yds down the B8004).
01397 772797
Situated on the banks of the Caledonian Canal
For more information call 01397 712324 or email enquiries@oldpines.co.uk
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www.moorings-fortwilliam.co.uk The Moorings Hotel | Banavie, Fort William
Inverskilavulin Lodges
West Highland Museum Cameron Square Fort William
We offer two luxury self catering holiday houses and two architecturally designed lodges. Both offer fantastic views of Ben Nevis and Aoanach Mor - Nestling amid magnificent scenery in Glenloy in the heart of the highlands.
Open All Year Mon-Sat 10am-4pm FREE ADMISSION
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Tel:01397 702169 www.westhighlandmuseum.org.uk
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Contact Tel: +(44) 01671 840228 Mobile +(44) 07899884709 Enquiries: glenloyholidays@hotmail.com Website: www.glenloy.com
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See your advert here 01397 705765
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WHAT’S ON – SEPTEMBER 2011
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Our Outdoor Capital
>> Matt Groves
How long have you lived in the Outdoor Capital?
Describe your perfect day in the Outdoor Capital
It’s almost exactly 10 years to the day since I first moved in to a rented house near Spean Bridge. It had no furniture, no heating, and was cold and damp, so I spent the first few weeks with just my Thermarest and sleeping bag on the floor!
A day I haven’t yet done, but would love to, is a ski traverse from Aonach Mor to Ben Nevis, with a descent of Observatory Gully to finish, and back home in time to make snowmen with my two boys. You never know, maybe one day they’ll be taking me on that trip!
What makes Lochaber your Outdoor Capital? This has been a key destination for me for climbing, skiing and paddling ever since University. Through over twenty years I have developed a close connection with the mountains and coasts of this area. I enjoy discovering new places and savouring old favourites; the more you look the more you see, and there are still many adventures I’ve yet to experience.
Tell us about a 'hidden gem' The summit of Meall Cumhain in Glen Nevis, at dusk on an atmospheric Autumn evening, with the roar of stags all around. It feels prehistoric. Sum up the Outdoor Capital in 3 words Ever changing landscape.
Where's your favourite place in the Outdoor Capital? This is a hard question to answer – probably sitting in our hammock in the back garden with a glass of wine looking out at our view of the Grey Corries (preferably on a warm breezy evening!). Alternatively, Easy Gully on Aonach Mor, with a rare offering of deep powder.
TOP 5 WILDLIFE SPOTS
Best view in Lochaber? The view from my back garden!
1. Glen Roy - red deer, raptors 2. Ardnamurchan peninsula - red deer, sea eagle, twite 3. Glen Garry / Kinlochuorn - red deer, golden eagle
TOP 5 HIDDEN GEMS AROUND LOCHABER 1. Cille Choirill, Roy Bridge – a very sacred site with 15th century church and burial ground. 2. Session House by Kiel Church, Lochaline – 18th century former school, now a museum. 3. Parallel Roads, Glen Roy – were these horizontal lines formed by nature, man or Fingal the Celtic Giant? 4. Loch Nevis – take a 7 mile walk from Bracorina, near Morar, to Loch Nevis for peace, quiet and tremendous vistas. 5. Fairy Glen, Gairlochy – will you discover the magical woodland area, tucked away off the Caledonian Canal?
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4. Inchree Forest - red squirrels 5. Loch nan Uahm - divers, seals
TOP 5 BEACHES 1. Camusdarach – famous as Ben’s Beach in the movie ‘Local Hero’. 2. Sanna Bay - between Sanna Point to the north and Ardnamurchan point to the south. 3. Silver Sands – sublime views, wonderful sunsets. 4. Cul Doirlinn – tidal bay surrounded by rugged hills and native woodlands. 5. Cuil Bay – recently declared the best beach in Scotland : enough said!
www.outdoorcapital.co.uk
WHAT’S ON – SEPTEMBER 2011
What is Iomairt GĂ idhlig Loch Abair? Iomairt GĂ idhlig Loch Abair (Lochaber Gaelic Initiative) has two aims: 1. To increase the numbers of people able to speak Gaelic 2. Increase and develop the opportunities to use Gaelic English: Welcome GĂ idhlig: FĂ ilte Phonetic: Fahlche
English: Many thanks Gà idhlig: Mòran taing Phonetic: moe-ran ta-eeng
English: Hello, my name is ‌‌.. GĂ idhlig: Hello, ‘s e ‌‌.. an t-ainm a th’orm Phonetic: Hello, ‘shhe ‌‌‌ un tanam a haarum
English: Goodbye GĂ idhlig: TĂŹoraidh Phonetic: ch-ee-urry
English: Do you have a room available? Gà idhlig: A bheil rum agaibh? Phonetic: ugh ve-ill roo-um aguv English: I would like a dram of whisky, please Gà idhlig: Bu toigh leum drama uisge-bheatha Phonetic: boo tugh loo-um draa-ma oosh-gugh ve-ugh English: Where is‌‌ Gà idhlig: Cà ite a bheil‌‌ Phonetic: kahtch ve-ul‌‌ English: For a walk on the moor Gà idhlig: cuairt air a’mhòintich Phonetic: coe-ursht ir uh vawn-tcheech
'S e Com-pairteachas Leasachaidh a th' ann an Iomairt GhĂ idhlig Loch Abair. Tha e a' toirt cumhachd dhan choimhearsnachd airson leasachadh na GĂ idhlig le taic 's stiĂšireadh bho Chomunn na GĂ idhlig. Tuilleadh an seo www.iomairt-lochabair.org Brought to you by Iomairt GhĂ idhlig Loch Abair, a community partnership with membership from those interested in Gaelic. It gives the community the power to make decisions about Gaelic activity and support is provided by Comunn na GĂ idhlig. For more information, visit www.iomairt-lochabair.org
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Neviss Range
Mountain n Experience
Britain's only mountain gondola to 650m Breathtaking views from restaurant & bar Cross country mountain biking Downhill mountain biking High Wire Adventure Mountain walks Forest walks Food & drink Bike school
7 miles north of Fort William on A82 Inverness PH33 6SQ 01397 705825 nevisrange.co.uk info@nevisrange.co.uk
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Crannog Cruises
Enjoy the breath-taking scenery and unusual wildlife of Lochaber whilst gliding through the clear waters of Loch Linnhe. A spacious bar and lounge and our all weather viewing deck mean that everything you need for a great day out is on board.
Each sailing lasts 90 mins • Cruises run from March to October I5
Town Pier, Fort William • 01397 700714 • www.crannog.net