March Madness
What a busy weekend! Jim had a big group of friends up from Glasgow and The Gaelic Singers were at Cologin for their annual weekend away. With a couple of lodges off for refurbishment (new kitchens and bathrooms) we only just managed to fit everyone in. Paddock Lodge was christened and appeared to offer very comfortable accommodation with new underfloor heating. Once we have got the hang of the system - initially it was a bit like walking on hot coals - the underfloor heating should maintain a pleasant ambient temperature. We think we have it cracked now and can't wait to test out the lodge for ourselves.
During the winter we try and sleep in every property on site. It takes some doing as there are 20 chalets and lodges and the farmhouse and cottage but we think it's important as, contrary to popular belief, people are usually reluctant to pass on 'negative' comments. We found a few beds that could do with new mattresses and noticed how much more condensation the 'new' double glazed window units produce. This is a big pain as the old windows were obviously drafty (which was bad) but that had a positive effect on keeping the properties aired and mould free. We had not appreciated that by improving the insulation we would increase the problem of condensation and we are now having to have air bricks built into the lofts to try to ensure that the chalets stay aired during the quieter winter months. You solve one problem and create another! If you are staying with us over the winter and you like your heating on full blast please don't close the ventilation slats otherwise you might find puddles on your window sills in the morning. Hopefully this problem will not be an issue in the summer, but in Scotland you never know!
Outwith Cologin the town is beginning to get busier as the yachting community get ready for the Spring. Sea kayaking has become big news in this part of the world and Oban is now a top destination for this sport. I love sailing but have not yet had a chance to try sea kayaking. My good friend Olga's husband Tony is a top kayak instructor so perhaps I will book myself a lesson once the weather is a bit warmer to see what all the fuss is about. Meanwhile my own husband is off on a bying trip for a new RIB. As usual I am completely in the dark and will have to wait and see what he appears back with.
During the winter we try and sleep in every property on site. It takes some doing as there are 20 chalets and lodges and the farmhouse and cottage but we think it's important as, contrary to popular belief, people are usually reluctant to pass on 'negative' comments. We found a few beds that could do with new mattresses and noticed how much more condensation the 'new' double glazed window units produce. This is a big pain as the old windows were obviously drafty (which was bad) but that had a positive effect on keeping the properties aired and mould free. We had not appreciated that by improving the insulation we would increase the problem of condensation and we are now having to have air bricks built into the lofts to try to ensure that the chalets stay aired during the quieter winter months. You solve one problem and create another! If you are staying with us over the winter and you like your heating on full blast please don't close the ventilation slats otherwise you might find puddles on your window sills in the morning. Hopefully this problem will not be an issue in the summer, but in Scotland you never know!
Outwith Cologin the town is beginning to get busier as the yachting community get ready for the Spring. Sea kayaking has become big news in this part of the world and Oban is now a top destination for this sport. I love sailing but have not yet had a chance to try sea kayaking. My good friend Olga's husband Tony is a top kayak instructor so perhaps I will book myself a lesson once the weather is a bit warmer to see what all the fuss is about. Meanwhile my own husband is off on a bying trip for a new RIB. As usual I am completely in the dark and will have to wait and see what he appears back with.
posted by Unknown at
09:13
