The Glasgow Garden Walks Group are a group of retirees who travel Scotland in their minivan, staying in hostels and exploring the many, beautiful gardens of Scotland. They are a force to be reckoned with, as they embark on a four day adventure around Old Banffshire, Aberdeenshire and Moray.
All posts by Brian Sutherland
Bonnie Galloway
When I was 16 years old I lived in Threave House, the National Trust school of practical gardening, for two years. I had a motorbike and explored Galloway from time to time. Galloway is a beautiful part of Scotland and many people have not found it, even now while I am writing this blog at 76. They drive up the M74 and head for the Highlands. So Galloway is a very peaceful place.
The Greatest 5 Days on the North Coast 500
Everything you need to know about travelling the NC 500 in 5 days. Are you looking for a North Coast 500 itinerary that takes things at a relaxed pace? With a sprinkling of beautiful Scottish gardens, beaches and coastal fishing villages to explore.
Scottish Gardens of the Far North
We were on a four day expedition to visit the Scottish gardens of the North. The hostel accommodation provided by Helmsdale Hostel was comfortable and fun and the gardens were aglow with colour.
Exploring Old Banffshire
I travel with a group of lovely girls on our “expeditions” to see Scotland’s garden and landscapes. The Sailloft at Portsoy is a good as a base for exploring old Banffshire and Aberdeenshire.
Highlands and Islands of Scotland: Hints & Tips for Travellers
The highlands and islands of Scotland are most beautiful. The scenery is magnificent. The fresh air is plentiful and bracing. The islands are isolated and amazing and the hills and mountains are out of this world. Here are some tips and advice to help you make the most of your time in this wonderful country.
Fresh air holiday on the Isle of Mull
An opportunity for me and my family to spend five super days on a fresh air holiday on Mull, which is fast becoming my favourite island. We did see Eagles on three separate occasions but sadly, look as we did, the shy elusive otters evaded our attention. What better reason to come back.
Wild and Wonderful Scottish North Coast Accommodation
At the edge of the world right up on the Scottish North Coast. Brian Sutherland visited with his family and experienced a warm welcome to this newly renovated innovative hostel. A must visit if you are looking for Scottish north coast accommodation.
Sail Away With Me to Portsoy
Brian Sutherland got away from it all whilst staying at the newly opened Sail Loft Bunkhouse at Portsoy on the Moray Coast.
Hostelling with Children: Joshua the Scottish Hostel Explorer
Many people think of hostels as youth hostels, for young adults, but in many ways it is great to go Hostelling with children. The self catering facilities are ideal for early mealtimes and in some cases hostels come equipped with ready made play mates. Most importantly a stay in a hostel could be the first time your children learn to make friends with holiday makers from other countries.
Orkney : The Green Islands
On our Garden Walkers trip to Orkney we visited all the places any tourist would want to visit. The standing stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae and Skail House. All special places to visit which make a lasting impression of the landscape as it would have been thousands of years ago.
Roy Bridge : Hope for Snow
We aimed for Roy Bridge fifteen miles north east of Fort William. We based ourselves in Aite Cruinnichidh (the gathering place) close to the Monessie Gorge.
Gearrannan Blackhouse Village on Lewis
The wind blew and souched around the blackhouses. The rain was carried on the wind and our spirits were low. We stepped inside Gearrannan blackhouse hostel closed the door and there was silence. It was warm, snug and quiet. The thick walls and the deep thatch kept all the noise of the wind outside where it belonged. All thoughts of weather disappeared and we relaxed.
Dumfries and Galloway
Dumfries and Galloway is a beautiful part of Scotland, a lovely destination for a holiday, often missed by visitors heading further North.
Barra and Vatersay : Paradise Found
Five hours sail from Oban on the West coast of Scotland lies the compact island of Barra near the south of the chain of islands known as the Outer Hebrides. The sea, the sand and the people make Barra what it is. Special.
