Jen and Dave: Adventuring

We scheduled today to be off, so we could appreciate the attractions of Lochranza. After another delicious breakfast, we headed down the footpath to Lochranza Distillery, where they make Arran Whiskey “the traditional way.”

We had booked a tasting, which turned out to be a fascinating class on the making of whisky and how each flavour is imparted and blended. They even had a “drivers kit” to pack up Jen’s five barely-touched drams. (Dave drank his, plus three other tasters). A really great way to wait out most of the morning rain.

Next stop: Sandwich Station. This converted fire station served luxury exotic sandwiches in a no-frills way. Jen enjoyed five-spice rubbed hot pork shoulder on artisan bread with Szechuan mayo, while Dave’s aged cheddar with onions and marmalade on the same artisan bread hit the spot for him. A great way to soak up some booze.

Finally, we were ready to explore the castle ruins. As in twelfth-century. As in arrow slits and towers and once being property of the Stewart Royal family, but now in ruins. So cool.

Walking back to the lodge, we went past a more modest set of ruins, Barking House, where sails, rope and nets were once treated for preservation in a bark solution called ‘cutch’ for the fishing fleet.