Scottish anchorages

The good news is that there are a few easily accessible and lovely gardens to wander around. The bad news is that in 2011 at least one and possibly two terrific gardens that were open to the public (25% of the total within reach) have been closed by their new owners who presumably want it all for themselves, for the few weeks they are in residence - the Highland Clearances are not over yet, and certainly not the absentee landlord problem. Possibly bad for Mull (Torosay Castle gardens, uncertain future) and definitely bad for Jura (Jura House gardens closed). So very many thanks to those owners who are still willing to open their gardens to the public, no doubt at a cost to themselves:

Ardchattan gardens on Loch Etive: domestic and peaceful

Ardminish Bay, Gigha: Achamore House gardens are spectacular with woodland bits and a walled garden, great trees - well worth the walk from the anchorage

Asknish Bay on Loch Shuna: Arduaine Gardens owned and nearly closed by the National Trust for Scotland, but now saved, probably best in spring for the rhododendrons, lovely water features

Easdale: An Cala

Gallanach Bay, Firth of Lorne: small and rather delightful garden, tucked away up a track

Stonefield Bay on Loch Etive: Achnacloich House, a woodland garden overlooking the anchorage

To get to grips with other gardens open to the public in Argyll and Bute go to http://www.gardens-of-argyll.co.uk