Enjoying the Wild Weather in January

Beautiful Snow at Appletree Self Catering Cottage, Loch Lomond

We've had some wild weather here at Appletree Cottage so far this year.  Gales, loads of snow and about a mile away in the Endrick valley spectacular flooding.

This hear has been the best for snow since we moved back to Scotland in 2013.  Having had a little bit in December, the weekend before last was the best.  Particularly on the Sunday when it snowed nearly all day - leaving about 6 inches deep in parts.  Here are some pictures....

Appletree Cottage in the snow

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View from the lounge area of Appletree Cottage. There are more windows beyond the pillar on the left giving a huge panorama of open countryside.

In order to achieve the spectacular views from Appletree Cottage we shortened one of the barns.  The barn is seldom used but provides excellent separation from the farm house giving privacy to guests staying at Appletree.

Wintery trees seen from Appletree terrace / patio

In the summer months cows can be seen wandering and grazing in the field immediately beyond the two large foreground trees.  They are interesting to watch and more organised than one might suspect.  Usually two cows are left in charge of the calfs whilst the others go off to graze.  There is also something of a routine about where and when they graze.  Fascinating to watch if you've got the time.  Like when you're on holiday / vacation - at Appletree Cottage!

Looking back down the road towards Croftamie

The snow stayed with us for a couple of days then melted very quickly.  The local high school, which has a catchment area of about 350 square miles was closed for two days as the snow prevented the pupils being bussed in to the school.  To great fun was had in the snow on the days off school!

The River Endrick and the flood plain between Croftamie and Drymen. The photo is taken from the road bridge over the river looking south.

As the snow melted quickly - in about a day - the River Endrick once again became overwhelmed and used its flood plain to full advantage.  The Endrick flows into Loch Lomond which in turn drains into the river Leven which empties into the Clyde.  The fields are never flooded for very long.
The Drymen Show, one of the oldest agricultural shows in Scotland is held every May in the fields adjacent to the Endrick.  Fortunately by that time of year the floods have long since receded.

A fantastic sunset viewed from the patio at Appletree Cottage

On the bright side - there have been some spectacular sunsets recently.