After the rainy day in mid-Argyll I was hoping for better weather for my visit to the Isle of Gigha. The start wasn't too promising: While I was waiting for the ferry in Tayinloan it was pouring down with rain. Luckily the weather improved for my visit to Achamore Gardens. This lovely garden was created by Sir James Horlick, who bought the Isle of Gigha in 1944. He was looking for a place with a kind climate and free from severe frosts, which would allow him to pursue his passion for rhododendrons and and exotic shrubs. He found it in the parkland of mature trees laid out by the previous owners around Achamore House. After his death in 1972 the gardens were maintained by the new owners and with the help of the National Trust for Scotland.

Close to the garden is also the ruin of Kilchattan church. Not much of it remains, mainly the front with its long window. You'll also find several very old grave slabs, some still retaining their designs. The one of the left is showing Malcolm, first MacNeill Laird of Gigha, who died in 1493. He is pictured as a highland warrior in a kilted tunic with his sword on his side.

Gigha being an island obviously has a lot of coastline. On the left an impression of the west coast from a viewpoint at Achamore Gardens. On the right a small beach which can be seen from the pier at the boathouse. I had a very nice day on Gigha (by the way, it is pronounced geeya with a hard g), despite the weather not being perfect. Let's see what the weather will bring for the next day, when I will explore the Kintyre Peninsula...