Читать книгу Walking on Rum and the Small Isles. Rum, Eigg, Muck, Canna, Coll and Tiree онлайн

7 страница из 49

In winter you’re almost guaranteed to have the islands’ hinterlands to yourself, but you'll have very short days and wild weather is a strong possibility. But it can be surprisingly mild in winter, thanks to the benign influence of the Gulf Stream, and if you’re lucky you might enjoy some crystal-clear, sunlit winter days. The terrain can be very boggy in winter, with December and January being the wettest months on the islands. Crossing burns and rivers can be hazardous when they are in spate after heavy rain. Before setting out to walk in winter, ensure you are properly equipped and let others know your planned route.

Getting there

Travellers to Scotland’s west coast usually come via Glasgow. Trains from the south come into Glasgow Central. Trains for Mallaig, Oban and the islands leave from Glasgow Queen Street, a ten minute walk from Glasgow Central. (You can catch a shuttle bus or taxi between the stations. To get from one to the other on foot, leave Central via the main entrance into Gordon Street, turn right (east) along Gordon Street, continue across Union Street and Mitchell Street into Buchanan Street. Turn left (north) and continue until you reach St Vincent Place. Cross St Vincent Place here, turn right and follow the left-hand (north) side of St Vincent Place till you reach George Square. Turn left and continue to the crossing on West George Street. Cross West George Street and continue up a slight slope and then steps into the Queen Street station concourse.)