Inverewe Garden, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, this 50-acre garden was created by Osgood Mackenzie in 1862. His plan to create a garden from windswept moorland beside Loch Ewe has developed into an oasis of exotic plants, bursting with vibrant colour all year round, thanks to the warm currents of the Gulf Stream. The range of plants is astonishing – rhododendrons from the Himalayas, eucalypts from Tasmania, daisy bushes from New Zealand and other examples from Chile and South Africa all flourish here. The setting adds immensely to the garden’s appeal an there are walks leading from the garden into the surrounding landscape, with its diverse wildlife and spectacular views.
A licensed restaurant, extensive shop and picnic area are all on offer for visitors. Inverewe Garden is in the care of the National Trust for Scotland. It is on A832, by Poolewe, 6miles north of Gairloch and 76 miles north-west of Inverness (journey will take approximately 2 hours). To check opening times, visit http://www.nts.org.uk/Property/36/
Images all © National Trust for Scotland
Image 1 - Stephen Whitehorne
Image 2 – Brian & Nina Chapple
Images 3 and 4 - Ken Whitcombe