As forecast, Tuesday was much cloudier than previous days in the week. We set off just after 9A.M. for the 60 minute trip to Eigg. No whale sightings on the way over but the dramatic volcanic scenery of Eigg was spectacular as we approached.
I haven't mentioned Steve yet. He is a local from Eigg who crews on the Mary Doune. He also has a minibus, which was very useful to get us from harbour up to the Northern side of the island, so we could go to the singing sands beach (The sands squeak when you drag your feet across them). The beach has some very weird formations of rocks and eroded cliffs so we spent sometime exploring and taking photos.
Once finished here we headed to the second beach of the day, at the Bay of Laig, a short walk down the Island. There were more dramatic formations on the beach, ideal for pottering about and taking pictures.
Steve picked us up again at about 4 P.M. and took us back to the harbour for a cup of tea in the Eigg tea shop in Galmisdale Bay.
A bouncy trip back for most of the way as the wind and current between Eigg, Rum and Skye was getting up. Once nearer Doune the sea calmed down considerably and we had a smooth run back home.
Dinner
Artichoke and Celery Soup
Haddock with Pesto and Chilli sauce
Blackcurrant & Apple Pavlova
Showing posts with label jlppc. Show all posts
Showing posts with label jlppc. Show all posts
11 September 2014
08 September 2013
End of the first day.
Breakfast at 8 in the lounge car, much like a aircraft meal but with better scenery! The train arrived on time at Fort William which left just over two hours to spend in town before the 12:12 train to Mallaig. Wandered along the high street and bought a few bits in Mountain Warehouse. Two pairs of Merino socks on two for one offer and a head torch, bargain! Then had a coffee and flapjack in Ossains, where I had lunch in 2010.
It was noticeable how many shops had gone out of business since my last visit.
Back to the station and retrieved luggage from the left luggage lockers. Once the train came in found Abby and Tina and in bright sunshine we made the trip to Mallaig; along the world's most scenic railway route.
Once in town had lunch (Haddock in Oats and Breadcrumb, with chips and peas) in the Steam Inn.
After lunch we bumped into our skipper and slowly the group congregated by the Mary Doune.
At about 5 PM we headed on the 15 minute trip from Maillaig to Doune.
Dinner
Beetroot & tomato soup
Poached salmon
Chocolate Orange pudding
It was noticeable how many shops had gone out of business since my last visit.
Back to the station and retrieved luggage from the left luggage lockers. Once the train came in found Abby and Tina and in bright sunshine we made the trip to Mallaig; along the world's most scenic railway route.
Once in town had lunch (Haddock in Oats and Breadcrumb, with chips and peas) in the Steam Inn.
After lunch we bumped into our skipper and slowly the group congregated by the Mary Doune.
At about 5 PM we headed on the 15 minute trip from Maillaig to Doune.
Dinner
Beetroot & tomato soup
Poached salmon
Chocolate Orange pudding
24 June 2011
Scavenger Hunt Report
Well it was a hot day. London was buzzing with tourists enjoying the sights and the weather. Team Slik met at the London eye and on the stroke of 11A.M. we headed off on our chosen route to take pictures to solve the cryptic clues and 'collect' as many places from the Monopoly board (without straying out of the defined area for the hunt).
Our route took us past quintessential sights, starting at the London eye over the Thames, with the Houses of Parliament in clear view. Up Nothumberland Avenue to Trafalgar square, the Strand and onto Pall Mall. We had a stop in the crypt of St Martins in the Fields for a drink and light bite to eat then onwards up Charing Cross Road through Leicester Square, Covent Garden, Oxford Street, Regent Street, Soho and our final destination the Crown and Two Chairmen in Dean Street.
Glad to report that out team was first back with all the questions answered. There was time to try to cool off and have a drink (including the 'perfectly drawn pint' which was one of the images we had to capture). There was a great selection of images and prizes awarded for best overall collection and best shot of the Essence of London.
On the way home I called into the National Portrait Gallery for a quick look at some of the portrait phototography they had on show - I have to say there weren't many that really grabbed my attention!
Our route took us past quintessential sights, starting at the London eye over the Thames, with the Houses of Parliament in clear view. Up Nothumberland Avenue to Trafalgar square, the Strand and onto Pall Mall. We had a stop in the crypt of St Martins in the Fields for a drink and light bite to eat then onwards up Charing Cross Road through Leicester Square, Covent Garden, Oxford Street, Regent Street, Soho and our final destination the Crown and Two Chairmen in Dean Street.
Glad to report that out team was first back with all the questions answered. There was time to try to cool off and have a drink (including the 'perfectly drawn pint' which was one of the images we had to capture). There was a great selection of images and prizes awarded for best overall collection and best shot of the Essence of London.
On the way home I called into the National Portrait Gallery for a quick look at some of the portrait phototography they had on show - I have to say there weren't many that really grabbed my attention!
JLPPC Scavenger Hunt 2011
Somewhere in London....
A scavenger hunt is an event in which the organisers prepare a list of specific items or tasks which the participant teams take photographs whilst following a defined route. The goal is usually to be the first to complete the list and return to a secret final location.
The second running (figuratively speaking!) of a scavenger hunt takes place this weekend. I have received meeting instructions and fellow team members. The forecast is for a hot, sunny day so should be good!
A scavenger hunt is an event in which the organisers prepare a list of specific items or tasks which the participant teams take photographs whilst following a defined route. The goal is usually to be the first to complete the list and return to a secret final location.
The second running (figuratively speaking!) of a scavenger hunt takes place this weekend. I have received meeting instructions and fellow team members. The forecast is for a hot, sunny day so should be good!
10 April 2011
JLPPC go to Kew
A very sunny April day at Kew with the JLP photography club.
Having made my my way to Kew via rail replacement bus to Hounslow, then train to Kew I arrived at the gardens just before 10 A.M. Headed to Snake's Head Fritillary flowers and they were in good form but not for much longer as they were starting to go over.
Met up with the group at 10:45 at Victoria gate then headed off around the gardens with Neil, who is recording a year at Kew so he knows a huge amount about the gardens.
There were plenty of people about but not so many as to make it uncomfortable. Took plenty of photographs of the flowers and glass house close ups.
Picnic lunch on the grass outside the Orangery then on via the fritillarys to the lake.
Group split up at 4 P.M. but I stayed on for another couple of hours to take advantage of the improving (less harsh) light. Found a Golden pheasant deep in the pines near the Redwood Grove.
Having made my my way to Kew via rail replacement bus to Hounslow, then train to Kew I arrived at the gardens just before 10 A.M. Headed to Snake's Head Fritillary flowers and they were in good form but not for much longer as they were starting to go over.
Met up with the group at 10:45 at Victoria gate then headed off around the gardens with Neil, who is recording a year at Kew so he knows a huge amount about the gardens.
There were plenty of people about but not so many as to make it uncomfortable. Took plenty of photographs of the flowers and glass house close ups.
Picnic lunch on the grass outside the Orangery then on via the fritillarys to the lake.
Group split up at 4 P.M. but I stayed on for another couple of hours to take advantage of the improving (less harsh) light. Found a Golden pheasant deep in the pines near the Redwood Grove.
26 July 2010
Knoydart – Day 8. Homeward bound
The clouds that rolled in yesterday afternoon have remained in place and a heavy grey blanket covers the sky. Time to go home. Up at 6:45 to finish packing and get ready for the journey home. Breakfast at 8 but we need to have all the luggage ready for Kermit to take it out to Mary Doune.
We tried to be helpful and load up for Andy but it transpired this was not a good idea as the method of getting Kermit onto the beach and into the water involves two opposing forces. Gravity takes it down the slope and Andy’s heels, digging into the beach, slow it down! If the luggage was on board the wheels may have come off and if not Andy would be on his way to Skye!
After our breakfast we settled the bar bills and headed to the pier. Liz, Andy’s wife and wizard in the kitchen, was there to see us off and we made the short (15 minute) trip back to Mallaig.
We arrived 40 minutes before the train was due to leave (10:10) but the platform was quite busy. The train left on time and we settled in for the five hour trip back to Glasgow. As we pulled away it started to rain as if Mallaig was shedding tears for our departure (if that doesn’t make you gag nothing will!)
The West Highland line scenery was a lot more broody than on the sunny trip last week but still fantastic scenery. We stopped at Glenfinnan and the Jacobite steam special was waiting for the line to clear before heading into Mallaig. The viaduct looked good despite the rain.
The rest of the journey was uneventful, apart from the stunning scenery which gradually softened as we approached Glasgow. Once at Queen Street station we said our farewells and I took the 7 minute bus to Glasgow Central. Arrived at 16:00 and after downing the bottle of Stella Artois I had with me (before it got too warm) I bought a cup of tea for the train and got on board. Getting on early meant I could stow my bags close to me and take my reserved seat (with power point) for the journey home. We have 10 stops on the journey and due to arrive at London Euston at 21:38; so just 4 hours 38 minutes to go!
The journey through Scotland and NW England quite grey and misty.
eee it’s grim oop North. Arriving in Lancaster at 18:40 and the drizzle is falling making for a very grey evening.
Conditions improved on the way south and at Milton Keynes it looked as though there might be a good sunset; but no luck. A hot air balloon appeared to thread its way between some trees and land safely. Unlike the conditions earlier it looks like a good evening to be up and away.
What a contrast, arrived early at Euston and lugged the bags onto the underground. I couldn’t help thinking what a contrast between the fresh air on the Sound of Sleat this morning to the hot stuffy air on the Northern line!
Final train of the day as I am on the Windsor and Eton Riverside train to Staines. 21:58. A final bus home and back indoors just before 11 P.M.
We tried to be helpful and load up for Andy but it transpired this was not a good idea as the method of getting Kermit onto the beach and into the water involves two opposing forces. Gravity takes it down the slope and Andy’s heels, digging into the beach, slow it down! If the luggage was on board the wheels may have come off and if not Andy would be on his way to Skye!
After our breakfast we settled the bar bills and headed to the pier. Liz, Andy’s wife and wizard in the kitchen, was there to see us off and we made the short (15 minute) trip back to Mallaig.
We arrived 40 minutes before the train was due to leave (10:10) but the platform was quite busy. The train left on time and we settled in for the five hour trip back to Glasgow. As we pulled away it started to rain as if Mallaig was shedding tears for our departure (if that doesn’t make you gag nothing will!)
The West Highland line scenery was a lot more broody than on the sunny trip last week but still fantastic scenery. We stopped at Glenfinnan and the Jacobite steam special was waiting for the line to clear before heading into Mallaig. The viaduct looked good despite the rain.
The rest of the journey was uneventful, apart from the stunning scenery which gradually softened as we approached Glasgow. Once at Queen Street station we said our farewells and I took the 7 minute bus to Glasgow Central. Arrived at 16:00 and after downing the bottle of Stella Artois I had with me (before it got too warm) I bought a cup of tea for the train and got on board. Getting on early meant I could stow my bags close to me and take my reserved seat (with power point) for the journey home. We have 10 stops on the journey and due to arrive at London Euston at 21:38; so just 4 hours 38 minutes to go!
The journey through Scotland and NW England quite grey and misty.
eee it’s grim oop North. Arriving in Lancaster at 18:40 and the drizzle is falling making for a very grey evening.
Conditions improved on the way south and at Milton Keynes it looked as though there might be a good sunset; but no luck. A hot air balloon appeared to thread its way between some trees and land safely. Unlike the conditions earlier it looks like a good evening to be up and away.
What a contrast, arrived early at Euston and lugged the bags onto the underground. I couldn’t help thinking what a contrast between the fresh air on the Sound of Sleat this morning to the hot stuffy air on the Northern line!
Final train of the day as I am on the Windsor and Eton Riverside train to Staines. 21:58. A final bus home and back indoors just before 11 P.M.
23 July 2010
Knoydart – Day 7. Eigg & Muck
Another sunny day with clear skies and a breeze. Breakfast at 8 then 9:15 boat to the Isle of Eigg. About an a hour passage then we moored up at the pier on Eigg. The main spot was a ubiquitous shot of the red roofed building with the volcanic scenery behind. A small group then walked a circuitous route back to the pier for a cup of tea from the gift shop at the pier.
Then a short transfer onto Isle of Muck for a leisurely walk across the island spotting Gannets, sheep, chickens and horses on the beach. A very peaceful island in the warm sunshine a great way to finish the holiday trips. The journey back to the lodge was in full sunshine but a cloud bank was chasing us from behind.
Evening meal was
Time to pack, finish the beer and prepare for the journey home tomorrow. Breakfast at 8 with luggage in Kermit.
Then a short transfer onto Isle of Muck for a leisurely walk across the island spotting Gannets, sheep, chickens and horses on the beach. A very peaceful island in the warm sunshine a great way to finish the holiday trips. The journey back to the lodge was in full sunshine but a cloud bank was chasing us from behind.
Evening meal was
- French onion soup with cheese crouton
- Langoustine & salad
- Fruit pudding.
Time to pack, finish the beer and prepare for the journey home tomorrow. Breakfast at 8 with luggage in Kermit.
22 July 2010
Knoydart – Day 6. O’er the sea to Skye.
What a difference a day makes! Awoke to clear blue skies. A breeze blowing but looks promising for a great day. Breakfast is at 8 then on the Mary Doune to southern Skye.
Away just after nine for a 60 minute boat trip to Skye. Called into small village of Elgol for some pictures of the Cuillin mountains. I took a walk up the hill to get a higher view point. Then down to the beach to get some rocks in the foreground of the shots. We then moved, by boat, onto Loch Scavaig. A very scenic spot with lots of Common seals basking on the rocks. Had lunch on convenient rocks then took a walk in land taking photos along the way. The weather remained warm and sunny, it was an idyllic spot. We assembled back at the Mary Doune at 4 P.M. for the trip back to Doune.
After the evening meal:
Last day tomorrow and weather looks good again so we are planning on a trip to Eigg.
Away just after nine for a 60 minute boat trip to Skye. Called into small village of Elgol for some pictures of the Cuillin mountains. I took a walk up the hill to get a higher view point. Then down to the beach to get some rocks in the foreground of the shots. We then moved, by boat, onto Loch Scavaig. A very scenic spot with lots of Common seals basking on the rocks. Had lunch on convenient rocks then took a walk in land taking photos along the way. The weather remained warm and sunny, it was an idyllic spot. We assembled back at the Mary Doune at 4 P.M. for the trip back to Doune.
After the evening meal:
- Tagliatelle
- Chicken in Cider sauce
- Blackcurrant sorbet
- Cheese (local) and biscuits
Last day tomorrow and weather looks good again so we are planning on a trip to Eigg.
21 July 2010
Knoydart – Day 5. Rain, rain go away
A poor forecast today and true to its word after breakfast the rain started. Headed north to the Sandaig Islands, about half an hour in the boat. A dinghy landing and explore d the area through thick bracken. Wandered around for just over an hour but as weather showed no sign of improving we headed back to the boat (shoes and socks off to get into dinghy) then cup of tea and dry out. Had packed lunch and tea then back to Doune.
Robert gave a demo of Lightroom which was useful to actually see the import and develop functions in action.
Half past four and it is still raining.
Robert gave a demo of Lightroom which was useful to actually see the import and develop functions in action.
Half past four and it is still raining.
Knoydart – Day 4, You Canna be serious
Weather forecast was good so the plan is for an 8 A.M. breakfast and head for Canna. Set off just after 9 on a calm sea. The journey time is about 90 minutes. The islands of Eigg and Rum past on the port side and as we approached Canna Andy, the skipper, spotted a Basking Shark. Great views in flat calm sea but apparently this was only a small one. Nearer to Canna we spotted a full grown adult. Also, during the trip we spotted all sorts of Auks, Fulmars, Gannets and Manx Shearwaters.
The north shore of Canna is made of sheer cliffs and ideal habitat for auks, Shags and Kittiwakes.
Also, spotted an eagle high on the cliffs, where else, but this was sent packing by the Ravens.
Headed to Canna pier to moor up and take a walk along the shore and just made it to Sanday Island via the bridge.
On the way back we spotted two more Basking Sharks and brief glimpses of a Minke Whale.
After the evening meal of:
- Cauliflower Soup
- Herb Crusted white fish
- Fruit meringue
the first good sunset of the week appeared and at about 9:50 it developed into a fabulous sight. It did not appear too promising at first but developed nicely.
19 July 2010
Knoydart – Day 3. A day of two halves
Awoke to bright sun to up before 7 to get out while it lasted. Quick walk to headland but no sign of wildlife (deer and otters seen here). Weather closing in already so good views of Cullins on Skye now gone and rain starting.
Breakfast at 8:30 and rain pouring down so we’ve decided to stay at base until about 11 as the rain band may have moved through. The plan is to head for Loch Nevis (Loch of Heaven) and go ashore at Inverie, where there is some options for shelter!
Sea calm but very misty. Arrived at Inverie and rain falling headed into woods for some shelter. Very mossy and green. Used compact camera mainly, mossies started to bite so applied deet and managed to get some in my eye, ouch!
Had packed lunch in the woods and rain stopped and sky brightened. Headed back to sea level and sun shining strongly. Wet kit dried out and enjoyed the sunshine.
After a leisurely time in the sun took the Mary Doune to a rarely visited headland (Rubha Ranouil) to get views of the bay and close ups of plants and seashore.
On the way back saw some seals on a small island and back to Doune.
Breakfast at 8:30 and rain pouring down so we’ve decided to stay at base until about 11 as the rain band may have moved through. The plan is to head for Loch Nevis (Loch of Heaven) and go ashore at Inverie, where there is some options for shelter!
Sea calm but very misty. Arrived at Inverie and rain falling headed into woods for some shelter. Very mossy and green. Used compact camera mainly, mossies started to bite so applied deet and managed to get some in my eye, ouch!
Had packed lunch in the woods and rain stopped and sky brightened. Headed back to sea level and sun shining strongly. Wet kit dried out and enjoyed the sunshine.
After a leisurely time in the sun took the Mary Doune to a rarely visited headland (Rubha Ranouil) to get views of the bay and close ups of plants and seashore.
On the way back saw some seals on a small island and back to Doune.
Knoydart – Day 2
A rainy day that ended up sunny. As the forecast was poor we stayed fairly close to home and took the Mary Doune to Loch Hourn (Loch of hell). A mixture of sunshine and showers. About 45 minute journey then dinghy ashore to walk along to a waterfall where we had our packed lunches. Fortunately the sun was now out so a pleasant spot to stop. Headed back along the shore and past the landing spot to walk further up the loch shore.
Finally, back to the boat for a cuppa then headed back to Doune for about 6 P.M.
Dinner of
Smoked Salmon with Herring
Venison
Trifle
17 July 2010
Knoydart – Day 1
Saturday, 17th July 2010
Awake early as we past past Haymarket Depot (Glasgow?) then back to sleep until about 6:30 to watch scenery going past. Lots of waterfalls, mountains and moors.
Breakfast arrived at 8:45 which was welcome. Arrived at Ft William exactly on time, 9:45. The weather was grey and occasionaly drizzly. Wandered around Fort William and decided it would be better to spend the day here than at Mallaig in terms of shelter and places to see. Wander up above the main town to get views of the loch then around most of the shops before lunch at Ossain resturant for fish & chips.
Met up with Sarah, Richard, Arthur, Anna, Tony on the train at Fort William at 16:09 then headed on to Mallaig. Weather turned sunny so views of lochs, Glenfinnan and beaches were spectacular.
At Mallaig met up with Jamie, Robert and Vicky to drop kit onto boat then bought some beer before heading to Doune. Sea slightly choppy for the 15 minute trip. Landed via dinghy as tide quite low. A quick tour of the lodge then dinner at 8
Sunset not especially colourful. Weather due to be wet and breezy tomorrow morning so keeping close to the mainland/Skye.
Awake early as we past past Haymarket Depot (Glasgow?) then back to sleep until about 6:30 to watch scenery going past. Lots of waterfalls, mountains and moors.
Breakfast arrived at 8:45 which was welcome. Arrived at Ft William exactly on time, 9:45. The weather was grey and occasionaly drizzly. Wandered around Fort William and decided it would be better to spend the day here than at Mallaig in terms of shelter and places to see. Wander up above the main town to get views of the loch then around most of the shops before lunch at Ossain resturant for fish & chips.
Met up with Sarah, Richard, Arthur, Anna, Tony on the train at Fort William at 16:09 then headed on to Mallaig. Weather turned sunny so views of lochs, Glenfinnan and beaches were spectacular.
At Mallaig met up with Jamie, Robert and Vicky to drop kit onto boat then bought some beer before heading to Doune. Sea slightly choppy for the 15 minute trip. Landed via dinghy as tide quite low. A quick tour of the lodge then dinner at 8
- Beetroot & Tomato soup
- Salmon with scallop sauce
- Red Currant sponge
- Coffee
Sunset not especially colourful. Weather due to be wet and breezy tomorrow morning so keeping close to the mainland/Skye.
16 July 2010
Day 0 continued….
Train departing from platform 15 so headed to platform just after half past eight.
Coach G is right at the front of a very long train; should have used a trolley but eventually got there and checked in with the attendant. Ordered a bacon Panini breakfast for 8:45. My original reservation was for cabin 5 but this has been changed to 23, a bonuis as this is at the nearer end so a shorter distance to walk!
Train set off on time (21:45) so once we were moving I headed down to the lounge car to get a bite to eat. A Wexford cheese ploughman’s sandwich and a coffee. The lounge was very warm and busy so went back to air conditioned, quieter compartment. http://www.scotrail.co.uk/caledoniansleeper/about-the-sleeper.html
A short stop at Watford Junction and now we are off again.
As for the compartment, it comprises a single bed (with another that folds down for dual occupancy, a wash basin, towel, various hangers for clothes, shelf space. However my bags are a bit bulky and won’t go under the bed. There is a complimentary wash kit and bottle of Strathmore spring water.
The weather forecast for Scotland is looking very wet with some bright spells so waterproofs are likely to be in demand. Still it may mean some dramatic clouds to photograph!
Coach G is right at the front of a very long train; should have used a trolley but eventually got there and checked in with the attendant. Ordered a bacon Panini breakfast for 8:45. My original reservation was for cabin 5 but this has been changed to 23, a bonuis as this is at the nearer end so a shorter distance to walk!
Train set off on time (21:45) so once we were moving I headed down to the lounge car to get a bite to eat. A Wexford cheese ploughman’s sandwich and a coffee. The lounge was very warm and busy so went back to air conditioned, quieter compartment. http://www.scotrail.co.uk/caledoniansleeper/about-the-sleeper.html
A short stop at Watford Junction and now we are off again.
As for the compartment, it comprises a single bed (with another that folds down for dual occupancy, a wash basin, towel, various hangers for clothes, shelf space. However my bags are a bit bulky and won’t go under the bed. There is a complimentary wash kit and bottle of Strathmore spring water.
The weather forecast for Scotland is looking very wet with some bright spells so waterproofs are likely to be in demand. Still it may mean some dramatic clouds to photograph!
Knoydart - Day 0
The journey begins.
All packed up so left home at about 18:30 to get the bus to Staines station, the train via Hounslow (less crowded) and onto Vauxhall and finally Euston where I am now in the First Class passenger lounge drinking complimentary coffee and about to eat some cake. Very good connections so arrived at 19:45 so hour & vhalf until the next main leg of the journey begins
My luggage consists of my mountain gear bag (with tripod inside) Lowepro rucksack and small breifcase st;le bag for the bits that wouldn't go in the other bags! All in al quite heavy so glad to have a safe refuge until the train departs at 21:15.
All packed up so left home at about 18:30 to get the bus to Staines station, the train via Hounslow (less crowded) and onto Vauxhall and finally Euston where I am now in the First Class passenger lounge drinking complimentary coffee and about to eat some cake. Very good connections so arrived at 19:45 so hour & vhalf until the next main leg of the journey begins
My luggage consists of my mountain gear bag (with tripod inside) Lowepro rucksack and small breifcase st;le bag for the bits that wouldn't go in the other bags! All in al quite heavy so glad to have a safe refuge until the train departs at 21:15.
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