Holidays

Between March and late October Glenloy Wildlife offers exclusive wildlife holidays based in scenic Glen Loy, some 7 miles from Fort William. Our fully inclusive holidays comprise 7 or 4 day breaks. We will explore the many and varied habitats in the area, which include native oak woodlands, Caledonian pinewood, upland moor, bogs, mountains rivers, lochs and coast. Wildlife in the area includes red deer , pine marten (that visit Glenloy Lodge each evening), golden eagle and raven as well as more elusive species such as otter and wildcat. Whilst keeping an eye out for these charismatic species we will also take note of equally impressive but perhaps less well-known plants, insects and birds, and relate these to the habitats in which they are found. You will be treated to comfortable and cosy accommodation in Glenloy Lodge, with all meals and transport provided during your stay.

Rewarded pine marten vigil!

Glenloy Wildlife is family run by naturalists Jon and Angela Mercer. Each course will be limited to no more than 10 people, thus guaranteeing personal attention and allowing flexibility for greater wildlife opportunities. On each holiday we will explore by minibus and on foot, allowing time to stop and look for wildlife en route, we aim to minimise the amount of time spent in a vehicle. Walking will be tailored to the abilities of the group, but should be well within the scope of all reasonably fit and active people. Children above the age of 8 are welcome, but sadly dogs are not permitted (including ours!). During the course of your stay we might also look specifically for nocturnal creatures, and rise early to take in the dawn chorus. Itineraries will be varied to take advantage of seasonal changes in wildlife.

For those not wishing to join a formal programme of tours we can suggest a programme of activities and excursions at a reduced rate.

A small taster ................

Glen Loy Oakwoods – a walk through both coniferous and native woodland to look for plants, insects and birds – an ideal introduction to the area.

Caledonian Canal – a look at the flora and insect life on the canal also looking for scrubland birds. Keep an eye on the hills all day for ravens, deer and even a possible eagle.

Wash Greaterbutterfly orchid

Costs and Dates

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Sample Itinerary

The following itinerary gives an idea of what to expect in a given week. Exact locations will vary according

to season and weather. Remember – some of the best wildlife encounters can be had in inclement weather!

Saturday.

Arrival. Short walk after dinner in Glen Loy to look at the native woodland and to admire the river. Pine marten vigil (which can be held each evening!)

Sunday.

(am) Glen Loy Oakwoods – a walk through both coniferous and native woodland to look for plants, insects and birds – an ideal introduction to the area.

(pm) Caledonian Canal – a look at the flora and insect life on the canal also looking for scrubland birds. Keep an eye on the hills all day for ravens, deer and even a possible eagle.

Other options - Loch Lochy and Loch Arkaig

Monday

(am) Boat Trip from Arisaig to the Small Isles – look for seals, cetaceans, basking sharks and a huge variety of seabirds, plus possible eagles.

(pm) Beach-comb and rock-pool in the most superb location. Look for divers and other sea birds, plus seals and otters.

Other options - Loch Linnhe, Loch Shiel

Tuesday

(am) Dawn Chorus walk – a walk up the glen to hear which birds are singing, returning for a well-earned breakfast.

(am/pm) Appin Peninsula – Look for butterflies including, in season, rare chequered skippers, marsh fritillaries and pearl-bordered fritillary. Admire the woodland plants including some local specialities. Scan some of the scenic coastline for otters and learn about the unique marine communities in this area.

Other options - Glen Garry

Wednesday

(am/pm) Loch Leven area – scan the shoreline for waterfowl and otters, venture into moorland habitat passing through native woodland and upland grassland. Keep a sharp eye out for eagles and other raptors.

Creatures of the Night – we will venture out with into the dusk looking for bats, owls, woodcock and perhaps other nocturnal creatures, returning to look at the contents of a moth trap.

Other options - Glen Coe, Creag Meagaidh

Thursday

(am/pm) Morvern Peninsula - We visit the wild and remote area of Morvern, crossing over on the Corran Ferry. Look for seals, porpoises, otters and seabirds. Visit a base-rich area noted for alpine plants and native woodland.

Dine out

Other options - Ardnamurchan point, Sunart and Moidart

Friday

(am) Ferry to the opposite bank of Loch Linnhe from Fort William , we take in a delightful walk through Crofters Wood looking for woodland birds, plants, red squirrels and even otters on the shore,

(pm) Upper Glen Loy – a walk in native Caledonian pinewoods and some remote rugged countryside. We look at woodland and upland communities, always scanning the skies for raptors.

Other options - Glen Nevis, Glen Roy

Saturday

Depart after breakfast