Balvicar

Settlement in Argyllshire

Scotland

Balvicar

Seil - Sheep hold-up A short hiatus on our way down the B8003 through Seil to catch the ferry at Cuan to travel over to Luing. It was only a brief hold-up though as the sheep were soon steered off to the right. — Seil - Sheep hold-up Credit: Rob Farrow

Balvicar is a picturesque village located in the county of Argyllshire, Scotland. Situated on the eastern coast of the Isle of Seil, it is nestled amidst stunning natural landscapes and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and sea.

The village is known for its tranquility and serene atmosphere, making it a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Its charm lies in the quaint and traditional whitewashed cottages that line the narrow streets, creating a postcard-worthy setting.

Balvicar is also a thriving fishing community, with its roots dating back to ancient times. The local fishermen continue to ply their trade, bringing in an abundance of fresh seafood that is highly regarded in the region. Visitors can sample the catch of the day at the village's seafood restaurants or purchase it directly from the fishermen's cooperative.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Balvicar and its surroundings. The area is home to diverse wildlife, and birdwatchers can spot various species along the coastline. The nearby hills and forests offer numerous hiking trails, allowing visitors to soak up the natural beauty of the region.

For history enthusiasts, Balvicar boasts several historic sites, including the ruins of Kilbrandon Church, which dates back to the 13th century. This ancient church provides a glimpse into the area's rich past and is a must-visit for those interested in exploring the local heritage.

Overall, Balvicar in Argyllshire offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a welcoming community, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and idyllic Scottish getaway.

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Balvicar Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.290577/-5.615125 or Grid Reference NM7616. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Seil - Sheep hold-up

A short hiatus on our way down the B8003 through Seil to catch the ferry at Cuan to travel over to Luing. It was only a brief hold-up though as the sheep were soon steered off to the right.

Rob Farrow

Seil - drive to Kilbrandon church car park

The driveway on the right leads up to the carpark for NM7515 : Seil - Kilbrandon church from the B8003 which continues on the left on its way to Cuan.

Rob Farrow

Seil - Kilbrandon church

Kilbrandon church is famed for its stained glass. The five windows are the work of Douglas Strachan and were presented to the church in 1938 in memory of the Marchioness of Breadalbane. Unfortunately on our visit the church wasn't open; however other Geograph contributors have been luckier - see the shared description below.

Rob Farrow

Seil - Elenabeich - An Cala - the house

An Cala is a beautiful garden towards the eastern end of the village of Ellenabeich. This is a view of the front of the house. See shared descriptions below.

Rob Farrow

Seil - Elenabeich - An Cala - the house from its garden

Looking up at NM7417 : Seil - Elenabeich - An Cala - the house from the southwestern edge of its gardens. See shared descriptions below:

Rob Farrow

Seil - Ellenabeich - Wire sheep and waterfall

These wire sheep were 'grazing' the lawn before the waterfall at the eastern end of An Cala gardens. Closer view of the waterfall here NM7417 : Seil - Ellenabeich - An Cala - Waterfall See shared descriptions below:

Rob Farrow

Seil - Ellenabeich - An Cala - Waterfall

A close-up view of the waterfall towards the northeastern end of the lovely gardens at An Cala. See also NM7417 : Seil - Ellenabeich - Wire sheep and waterfall and shared descriptions below:

Rob Farrow

Seil - Ellenabeich - An Cala - House and wire sheep

Looking over the wire sheep to the house at An Cala with a view to distant Garbh Eileach the grey island in the background.

Rob Farrow

Seil - Ellenabeich - An Cala - Pond and Grotto

An attractive little overgrown grotto is at the end of a sub-garden containing a pond. See shared descriptions below.

Rob Farrow

Seil - Ellenabeich - An Cala - Pond from the Grotto

Standing beside the front of the grotto seen in NM7417 : Seil - Ellenabeich - An Cala - Pond and Grotto looking back into the garden past its pond.

Rob Farrow

Seil - Ellenabeich - An Cala - Design made from cones in grotto

The back wall of the grotto seen in NM7417 : Seil - Ellenabeich - An Cala - Pond and Grotto has this intricate design made mostly from different kinds of cones with a few judiciously inserted twigs.

Rob Farrow

Seil - Ellenabeich - An Cala - Waterlily

A waterlily bloom about to open up completely. This was one of several in NM7417 : Seil - Ellenabeich - An Cala - Pond from the Grotto

Rob Farrow

Seil - Ellenabeich - An Cala - Stream through garden

Not marked on the maps, but a little stream trickles through what looks like a man-made cutting immediately to the southeast of the drive through the gardens. See shared descriptions below.

Rob Farrow