Argyll gardens blossom as part of festival

TWO Argyll properties are set to open their gardens to the public as part of one of Scotland’s most spectacular outdoor garden festivals.

Blossoming across the country until March 11, the Scottish Snowdrop Festival comprises of more than 50 events nationwide, with venues displaying carpets of snowdrops in their gardens and woodlands, signalling the end of winter and the promise of spring.

Organised by garden tourism organisation Discover Scottish Gardens, the annual festival is supported by VisitScotland and Scotland’s Garden Scheme.

Local venues taking part in the festival include Ardmaddy Castle near Seil and Maolachy’s Garden in Lochavich, near Taynuilt.

Located south of Oban, the walled gardens at Ardmaddy are shielded by mature woodlands and visitors can enjoy a range of rare and unusual shrubs and plants, as well as the snowdrops.

Meanwhile, Maolachy’s Garden by Taynuilt boasts three acres of woodland garden at an altitude of 450 feet.

Now in its 12th year, the Snowdrop Festival helps to encourage locals and tourists to enjoy the wonders of Scotland’s gardens during the snowdrop flowering period and to highlight the diversity of the country’s array of snowdrop collections.

Over the years, many Scots have fallen in love with the versatile herbaceous plant, scientifically known as Galanthus. There are now over 2,500 named varieties of the winter flower and its adaptability and hardiness means it grows in a great range of locations across the world.

Research shows that around one in three visitors to Scotland make a trip to a forest or woodland park during their stay while 43 per cent visit a country park or garden.

Catherine Erskine, chairwoman of Discover Scottish Gardens and founder of the Snowdrop Festival in Scotland, said: ‘We are very lucky in Scotland to have a fantastic climate for snowdrops, with many species thriving here and creating stunning displays.

‘Many of the festival venues are within the grounds of some of the country’s most historic buildings with beautiful surroundings. Adding snowdrops to these landscapes create a spectacular sight for any visitor.’

David Adams McGilp, VisitScotland regional director, added: ‘Over the 12 years, the Scottish Snowdrop Festival has grown to become an annual highlight with the arrival of these dainty little flowers heralding that spring is just around the corner.

‘It’s great to see these properties included as part of this year’s line-up, as the festival provides a welcome boost for the local area during a traditionally quieter period of the year. I hope as many people as possible will get out and about to enjoy this great seasonal sight.’