Tuesday travels. . .Cruachan, Loch Awe and the Pass of Brander

On our trip to Oban from Dullatur we passed this loch, which is Loch Awe, and we made an impromptu turn into the layby.  We were surprised to find that close by was a Hydro Power station that included a visitors’ centre. The Cruachan Visitors Centre proved to be a worthwhile stop.  We were there at the right time for one of the guided tours which was very informative.  You had to board a small bus to be driven into the “hollow mountain” and to view the working part of the power station.

After our tour we visited the cafe and had a delicious lunch.

There is a beautiful view of the loch from the cafe. There is also a great view from the layby.

It is always pleasing when you come across information boards at locations.  Robert the Bruce defeated John MacDougall of Lorne, a supporter of Edward II, at the Battle of the Pass of Brander in 1308, two years after Bruce had been crowned King of Scotland.  He was trying to establish his position in Scotland by defeating supporters of Edward, King of England.

This was an unplanned stop on our travels that was well worth it.