We spent two lovely weeks in August at Aigas House and Field Center on a Road Scholar Tour, exploring the Scottish Highlands, a wonderfully rich experience that exceeded all our expectations. We hiked in gorgeous glens and moorlands, watched dolphins leaping alongside us in the Moray Firth, and spent quiet time in Aigas's nature "hides" at nightfall, watching for badgers, pine martens and beaver to appear. We visited castles and learned about their dramatic histories, and enjoyed hearing the Aigas Rangers recount local lore and anecdotes while teaching us about Highlands flora, fauna and geology, which they so obviously love. We were treated to a house tour and tea at historic Arniston House hosted by the lady of the house and her daughter. We visited with a local crofter who brought us into her home and told us about her family's 75 years on the land, highlighted by a visit to her beautiful flower and vegetable garden overlooking cattle grazing on rolling pastures. We learned about Aigas's inspiring efforts, led by Sir John Lister-Kaye and the Aigas Rangers, helping to restore native wildlife species and habitats in collaboration with the Scottish National Trust and non-profits such as Trees For Life, an organization that painstakingly nurtures native seedling trees for Highlands reforestation projects. Lady Lucy and her Aigas staff provided for our every need with warm personal attention, gracious hospitality and wonderful cuisine. Lady Lucy's guided tour of the Aigas house and gardens were a highlight of our stay. We were inspired, awed and enchanted, and fell in love with this place and the people we met. We hope to visit again soon.
