Our first trip in Dumfries and Galloway was to
Ae Forest, which is a Forest and Land Scotland forest with plenty of trails for walkers, horse riders and mountain bikers. Some tracks are for shared use, but the very hilly tracks are specifically for mountain bikers who do come rushing down them at top speed so walkers need to keep away from these steep tracks (which are generally pretty well sign posted).
Crafty Green Boyfriend and I enjoyed rambling along the walking trails which pass through woodland
and some more open areas
There were lots of butterflies around while we were visiting, including painted ladies
and peacocks
At one point we came across an unexpexted display of historic ploughs
and this lovely bench
which includes a panel that features the river wildlife
plenty of hoverflies too, including these two
Eristalis
Later that day we had an evening walk along the river near our hotel, the evening light was beautiful
It's always a lovely part of Scotland to spend a holiday, and I'll share more from our trip over the next couple of days.
That butterfly is stunning! We have painted ladies, but nothing like that. I have to say that you go on more nice walks than anyone I know.
ReplyDeleteVery green.Thanks.
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful to see the butterflies! I'm wondering, CGP, if you have seen Small Tortoiseshell? Despite our nettle patch, they have been conspicuous by their absence here, which seems such a shame as we've had a bumper year in the garden for other 'red' species.
ReplyDeleteHi Sandy, thanks and yes I do go on a lot of nice walks, Scotland has a lot of wonderful walks!
ReplyDeleteThanks Jack
Caroline - very few small tortoiseshells this year, I don't think I've seen more than one. Other butterflies doign well though.