Awake with the sunrise – Torosay Walk
In the five years since we moved to Mull the walk to Torosay is one of our favourites, partially due to its close proximity to Pennygate. Although we have followed the track through the wood to the shoreline below many times we have always been uplifted by it. Framed by the trees the views across to the mainland are awesome. During the walk you are immersed in nature while admiring the stately trees, listening to the birdsong or watching otters playing on the rocks.
March this year started with a succession of cold but sunny days so heading out early meant I was able to catch the sunrise in its full glory. Passing the Gate Lodge the track enters the woods and as I emerged from the first avenue of trees a herd of red deer were silhouetted against the brightening sky in the fields to my left. They didn’t stir from their grazing oblivious to my presence. At the end of the field the track is encompassed by trees on both sides again and the views of the mountains across the water are hidden for a while.
The wood is mix of trees including oak, birch, hazel, and pockets of beech and is rich in wildlife. One of the joys of spring is the burst of birdsong it brings and in the early morning the beautiful sounds fill the air. A novice at identifying the individual choristers I just enjoy the moment.
As the track progresses breaks in the tree line allow me to watch the sun rising over the mountains and provide a glimpse of Duart Castle.
The track starts to gradually descend and eventually comes out of the canopy to face Torosay Castle, taking a sharp turn left off the main path leads down toward the shoreline. Along here in a stand of trees by the waters edge a group of herons are perched on the branches , not yet awake from their night slumbers.
Heading on past a white cottage the path leads to a small jetty. In summer it is lovely to sit here and dip your feet into the water while looking across to Duart Castle. There is a chill in the air so I carry on to the end of my route. Through a metal gate you come upon a large Celtic cross erected in memory of Murray Guthrie and his wife Olive. Facing out to sea I can not think of a better place to position a memorial for a loved one. Today the Morvern Hills still have a dusting of snow. Sitting to watch the ferries moving up the sound I finally retrace my steps home when the cold spurs me on to move.
Bye for now,
Fiona
