GaGrAdReDnENoOfF theTwHEeWekEEK

ATTADALE GARDENS, SOUTH SIDE OF LOCH CARRON ON A890, OPPOSITE VILLAGE OF LOCHCARRON, IV54 8YX

Attadale Gardens was developed by artist Nicky Macpherson after serious storms brought down its huge old trees at the end of the 1980s. Using the mountains as a backdrop and with the pond already present, over 30 years she has created a wonderful garden designed to be enjoyed by locals and visitors from further afield.

It was a chance for a new beginning with more than 1000 new trees planted and a wonderful water garden created along the entrance drive. It is richly planted with waterloving plants from around the world: huge gunnera; pretty, colourful primula; irises; and many more reflected in black pools with little Monet-style bridges to wander over. Nearly 20 amazing and varied sculptures are scattered throughout the gardens. There is a tremendous selection of very old rhododendrons and sweetsmelling azaleas at this time of year; many of these were planted before the First World War and continue to flourish, growing up again when blown down in previous storms. Two Wollemi pines flourish above the upper path among the rhododendrons.

The Japanese garden was created to solve problems of regular flooding which prevented grass from growing. Several typical features of Japanese gardens are included. An impressive kitchen garden provides a contrast with rows of beautifully kept vegetables. Friendly gardeners are happy to stop and chat, and the Polytunnel has plants for sale, for visitors to help themselves. Similarly, the DIY Tearoom has delicious home-baking for visitors to enjoy, as well as a cup of tea or coffee.

You can visit the garden by train, as Attadale station is directly across the road, on the Inverness to Kyle line.

WEBSITE: TELEPHONE: OPENING TIMES: ADMISSION COSTS:

£1 child

attadalegardens.com

01520 722603

10.00am - 5.30pm

£8 adults, £6 seniors and