Steve McLaren, Visit Scotland B R E AT H TA K I N G V I E W S F RO M T H E TO P O F B E I N N E I G H E W I L L R E WA R D YO U FO R YO U R E FFO RT S – 6 8 – E X C U R S I O N natural beauty and has one of the largest remaining stretches of Caledonian pinewoods in the country. Protected as a National Nature Reserve, a day out here will take you on an exhilarating journey through woodland, mountain moors, waterfalls, rapids and lochs. With a keen eye you stand a chance of spotting rare wildlife such as golden eagles, otters and pine martens. The conservation charity Trees for Life is working on a long-term initiative to expand this native habitat to create a forest corridor that stretches across to the west coast. Worthy of the two-hour drive cross- country, Beinn Eighe in Torridon is another place of spectacular beauty and national significance. The area’s ancient Caledonian pinewoods created conservation history in 1951 when the site was designated Britain’s first National Nature Reserve. Discover its magnificence for yourself by following the one-mile woodland trail that starts at Coille na Glas-Leitir (the wood of the grey slope), named after the native birchwoods that characterise the lower slopes. Higher up, you can marvel at 400-year-old ‘granny’ pines. For those looking for a more challenging hike, Beinn Eighe’s mountain trail is a four-mile waymarked route, including a 586m ascent. You’ll need to set off early and pack proper walking gear, but you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with breathtaking views from the top. A little closer to home, the ancient Amat Forest is just 20 miles west of the Skibo estate, and gives a glimpse of what the wider landscape in this area used to look like – a magical mixed woodland with everything from Scots pine trees to birch trees, rowan, hawthorn, alder, holly, juniper, hazel, willow and oak. The European Nature Trust has contributed to the planting of 900,000 native trees to create 600 hectares of woodland in the region. It’s another example of the passionate conservation work being undertaken to restore Scotland’s forest to its former glory. With all this within driving distance of Skibo, it’s worth strapping on your walking boots to venture beyond the estate for a day. From precious trees to indigenous wildlife, Scotland’s ancient forests offer a rare opportunity to experience the magic of nature in all its unspoilt splendour. ª From top: autumn shades at Loch Affric in Glen Affric; a male capercaillie displays his tail feathers; the rugged peaks of Beinn Eighe A global private network, providing unsurpassed lifestyle services to discerning individuals around the world. Anything, any time, anywhere. e n q u i r i e s @ q u i n t e s s e n t i a l l y. c o m + 4 4 8 0 8 2 7 8 9 0 0 7 Access the inaccessible.