THIS COURSE, LED BY LOCAL WILD FLOWER EXPERT Dr. RICHARD GULLIVER, WILL START ON WEDNESDAY 13th MAY 1998. PARTICIPANTS WILL NORMALLY LEAVE OBAN ON THE 14.30hrs FERRY AND SAIL DIRECT TO THE HEBRIDEAN ISLAND OF COLONSAY* ACCOMMODATION IS AVAILABLE BY CHOICE, EITHER AT COLONSAY HOTEL (3 CROWNS, COMMENDED) OR ELSEWHERE ON THE ISLAND. ATTENDANCE FOR ONLY PART OF THE COURSE MAY ALSO BE POSSIBLE Colonsay is the ideal location for such a course. Within its 8-by-3 mile compass can be found stunning sandy beaches backed by extensive dunes over which the rare chough call; wild hills where black-and-white feral goats roam free; and natural woodland above which buzzard circle and issue their mewing cries. In addition to these delights there are the landscaped woodlands around Colonsay House (which include many species of Rhododendron); croftland and farmland; lochs and burns; and spectacular cliff scenery. Add to this the fact that the mild climate means plants are often in bloom ahead of the mainland, and you have all the ingredients of an unforgettable holiday. On each day we will assemble at the hotel for a short slide show on the wildflowers of Colonsay arranged by habitat. The hotel minibus will then take us to the starting point of the day's excursion, which will sometimes be over fairly rough terrain. Good quality walking boots or comfortable wellingtons, together with waterproofs, are essential. We will be out in the field for 5 to 7 hours, and cover 4 to 6 miles. Key points of plant identification will be highlighted in the field. In the mid/late afternoon we will return to the hotel for a cup of tea and second illustrated talk. There will then be plenty of time for a shower/bath and a change before evening meal at the hotel or guesthouse, or return to self catering accommodation. Tuition will be provided by Dr Richard Gulliver, botanical recorder for Islay, Jura and Colonsay (vice county 102). The small group size will allow individual tuition at whatever "level" is required, from absolute beginners unfamiliar with the British Flora, to those with some experience. A maximum of 11 places is available, so early booking is advisable. The cost of the course will be £50 per person which includes group transport on the island, use of the hotel coffee shop for indoor sessions and tuition. Participants will also need to book their own accommodation and a list of accommodation providers on the island will be sent on request. Participants will also need to purchase or provide their own packed lunches and any drinks that may be required, and, of course, pay their own fares to and from Colonsay. FURTHER INFORMATION AND BOOKING For either the "Wild Flowers of the Island of Colonsay" course, or a stay at the Hotel, please contact
For additional details of the course contact Dr Richard Gulliver on 01496 302432. * Assumes ferry times in 1998 are the same as in 1997
Visitors to Page since 12/08/97
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