Cologin Blog

WINTER WINE TASTING WITH INVERARITY VAULTS

2012-01-21T16:26:00.000Z

Well it's taken a little longer than we expected but we finally have a date for the wine tasting evening at The Barn Bar. Come along and join us on Thursday 2nd February for some free white and red wines - all we ask in return is your feedback so we can pick the best for the bar's new winelist.

And don't worry non wine drinkers the bar will be open from 5pm. (Wine tasting will run from 7.30 - 9.30pm) Sadly the kitchens are still closed for refurbishment so no meals - just drinks!

STORM BRINGS DOWN PHONE LINES!

2011-12-12T11:14:00.000Z

Sorry to have been out of touch but the storm force winds caused havoc in Argyll and we lost our phone lines for 4 days. BT has now put a temporary repair on our lines and we are finally back in communication. It is quite frightening how reliant we are on the internet - not just for bookings but for pretty much everything! Even The Barn Bar had problems as you can't take a credit card payment when there is no phone line!

Everything back up and running now and apart from a few roof tiles from one of the chalets, some guttering and a few trees down, we have not had too much damage. I was fairly surprised to find my office intact on Friday morning as the dutch barn roof was at one point flapping in the wind!

Winter Menus Now On Line

2011-11-09T11:35:00.000Z

We're into November and as usual The Barn Bar will be on restricted opening times until the Festive Season* when we are open every night! If you are staying in the lodges come and join us for a drink from 5pm on Friday through to last orders on Sunday evening.

Michael Hewitt and his experienced kitchen team will be serving homecooked, wholesome, pub grub from 6pm to 9pm each weekend evening. Michael is a well known local chef who also runs the Oban Spit Roast company. Examples from The Barn's Blackboard menus are now online on our website and the dishes feature locally sourced ingredients. If you want a light lunch (from noon to 3pm) the bar staff now have a freshly cooked 'soup of the day' to offer from our new soup kettles, crusty bread and a range of filled sandwiches and baguettes. The 'Soup and Sarni Combo' is already proving popular after a walk up to the loch with the dog (which incidentally are welcome in The Barn as long as they are on a lead or under close control).

We look forward to welcoming locals, Lagnakeil guests and of course are own Cologin visitors to The Barn Bar over the coming months. Check out our 'Malt of the Month' or sample Highlander or Avalanche beers from Fyne Ales - an award winning local brewery.

*The Barn Bar will be closed on Christmas Day

OBAN FIREWORKS BIG BANG

2011-11-07T15:56:00.001Z

Over £6k of fireworks were set off all at once at the Oban fireworks display on Friday 4th November! An electronic timing fault was too blame and the display will now be restaged on the 27th November as a fitting final event for Oban's Winter Festival. The fireworks will be set off in Oban Bay!

Wine Tasting Weekend!

2011-10-25T11:44:00.000+01:00

In preparation for the new wine menus in the Barn Bar @Cologin we're planning a wine tasting weekend to select our favourites. Anyone who knows me will also know I don't need much encouragement to have a drink! However, the Ducan diet book has been sitting on my desk for the last two weeks as I am attempting to slim down in time for a good friend's wedding at the Isle of Eriska (low lucky is she) in December. Should I start the diet and rely on the feedback of others to chose the wines for the pub or should I give myself an excuse to put off doing the diet for another few weeks! No contest! I will drink the wines and sod the diet! (And don't worry Karen - I've already bought my dress and as long as I don't put any weight on I'm good to go!)

The Barn Bar

2011-10-04T23:01:00.000+01:00

At the end of this month The Barn will be back with the Battison family as Andrew senior and Andrew junior move on after five years at Cologin. I can't believe it's been that long!

We've some exciting plans for development (bank willing) and will soon be in touch to find out your views and what you'd like to see on offer at The Barn. We've already had some excellent suggestions from our regular visitors - brunch at the weekends, more local produce and more music!

The Edinburgh Hash House Harriers will be at Cologin en masse the first weekend in November so we will hit the ground running! Oban Spit Roast company will be catering on Saturday evening for the Hash private party feeding 100 hungry Hashers with a tasty hog roast and all the trimmings. The Barn will stay open over the winter (weekends only) and will close for a couple of weeks after our last guests leave following Hogmanay (around the 6th January) and we'll get on with our renovations.

West Highland Week etc!

2011-08-08T09:28:00.001+01:00

What a week! Nearly 4000 orienteers in Oban for the Scottish 6 Day Championship (we had over 100 of them staying at Cologin) at the same time as the famous West Highland Week Yachting regatta. Two of my children were taking part - one crewing with Misjif (the overall winner of the regatta - owned by an old school friend of Jim's) and the other a WHW groupie; there entirely for the social programme - which is just as famous as the sailing event!
Needless to say Jim and I were confined to base although the orienteers were very self sufficient and (for such a large group) extremely easy guests - we'd be delighted to welcome any of them back to Cologin. They had a bit of a mixed bag weather wise - some lovely sunny days with no wind (which made for challenging sailing but presumably pleasant orienteering) and some wet and windy days - great for racing! The sun is shining again today after some heavy rain over night so pretty standard August weather for Argyll!

We're trying to plan a quick trip down to Edinburgh to catch some Fringe Festival shows (and service the car) but it's difficult to get away as customers are booking so late these days that we are still selling August breaks. I guess with the perilous state of the economy folk are not making holiday plans until the last minute - and if they are prepared to be flexible there are bargains to be had! We're offering 20% discount on unsold weeks in August for the last few lodges and we're still taking short breaks - another big change in way we do business!

Family Farewells!

2011-06-18T13:39:00.000+01:00

I've just waved goodbye to mum, dad, my big brother and his wife Hil, who have been up visiting from 'down south'. Mum could not get over how 'green' everything was up here - sunshine and showers make ideal growing conditions! Enjoyed a final meal out (superb fish and shellfish) in Oban last night at Eeusk - fabulous. Alan and Calum made us very welcome and we were thoroughly spoilt. It was extremely busy so a note to our customers - book in advance as it would be a great shame to miss this restaurant off your itinerary when in Oban.

Taynuilt Gaelic Choir Sings at Lerags

2011-06-10T10:34:00.000+01:00

Liam Griffiths (our neighbour in Lerags Glen) was approached by Taynuilt Gaelic Choir for permission to allow them to sing "for funds" in the Kilbride Kirkyard. Naturally, he agreed to help. This is his report of the experience:
"What an uplifting experience. Since at least the 12th century, a sacred building on this site has echoed to the voices of the Irish missionaries and their followers, St Ninian, Mungo, Columba, Moluag, Modan and the rest.

It has been the place of worship for the Roman Mass. It is mentioned in state documents by Alexander 2nd, King of Scotland.

Post reformation, it likely reverberated to the blood and thunder preaching of Mr Cambell, Church of Scotland minister for many years, who said he would close every public house in Argyll if he had his way" except the one in Lerags, for Kilbride Kirk is too cold and damp to dare use to baptise a new born babe!" and it was the cause of the Lerags sept of the McCallum clan being cursed by the MacDougalls, and as a result the MacCallum's diaspora was scattered throughout the globe, but not a one was left in Lerags, (though I am a collateral relative of the MacCallums.)

And today, Taynuilt Gaelic choir re-awakened the musical heart of the old church with the Gaelic song - Welcome home the fisherman."

Liam is happy for visitors to Cologin to take a look around this beautiful and historic graveyard which he maintains - but it is on private ground so do please respect his privacy.

A Stormy May at Cologin!

2011-05-30T08:41:00.000+01:00

May is generally one of the nicest months to come on holiday to Scotland, but this year the west coast has seen some really extreme weather with storm force winds and horizontal rain. Even the fisherman have been forced indoors and we really can't wait to see the back of this month. Fingers crossed for a decent run of sunshine in June.

If you want to know what it's been like in Oban take a look at the Youtube video! Not exactly the best advert for the west highlands - but then I guess nobody comes to Scotland for the weather!

Too Busy to boat!?

2011-04-23T14:56:00.000+01:00

Our RIB sits quietly in the early morning sunshine in this moody sunrise photo of Loch Feochan.

What a shame we are too busy to get in it and get out on the water today.

Once today's arrivals are in Jim might head out for a few hours tonight to meet the Waverley paddle steamer as she heads back into Oban after a day sailing to Tobermory and the Isle of Rum.

Sunday Train Service

2011-03-28T17:02:00.000+01:00

Last year's experiment by Scotrail to offer a direct train service from Edinburgh to Oban went well - so much so that for this season the service has been extended and the first service leaves Edinburgh on 26th June and runs for the next 10 Sundays. Of course you can stay for more than one day and we hope you will do so as five hours is not enough time to appreciate any of the surrounding attractions in Lorn. Consider it a wee taster of what's on offer.

If you are planning a trip to Cologin by public transport then the easiest route is from Glasgow by train or coach. There are daily services from Glasgow city centre throughout the year and in the summer extra trains are provided. From Perth, Inverness, Stirling and Edinburgh the only real options are by coach - summer only services - or by train if you can travel on a Sunday from Edinburgh! Once in Oban you really would be advised to hire a car. There is no public bus to Cologin (other than the school bus) and using taxis all week could cost more than hiring. Argyll has many attractions but most of them are not on the main bus routes so a car is your best bet. At least we have fantastic scenery to look at as you drive around.

Gourmet Dinner at Loch Melfort

2011-03-13T13:06:00.000Z

Just back from a fantastic 7 course dinner with wine at Loch Melfort in their newly renamed Asknish Bay restaurant. The hotel has a fabulous setting with views to die for and the 2 Red Rosetted restaurant produces wonderful food - more often than not from local producers.

I would strongly recommend our Cologin customers to treat themselves to dinner - it's not too far down the road (about 14 miles from our lodges) and in the summer with late sunsets the views alone would be worth the drive. Otherwise go during the day and drop in to Arduaine Gardens next door. A light lunch at the Chartroom Bistro (again - great views) will provide a lovely day out for the family. Rachel and Calum are to be warmly congratulated for the way they run Loch Melfort. It is child friendly, relaxed and yet totally professional and very grown up! We certainly enjoyed our meal (with excellent wines) and will be back regularly. Perhaps we'll take the boat round next time and use the moorings.

Heading East!

2011-02-26T09:36:00.000Z

Off to Perth for the day. We used to do this journey very regularly when the girls were at school at Strathallan. Now they are back at home in Oban we don't go over so often - and I miss it. The drive across Scotland (well not completely across - otherwise you'd end up in Dundee) is very pretty and the city of Perth (technically it's a large town but they are going for city status) has great shops, lots of character and is easy to walk around. We have lots of Cologin regulars who come over from Perth and Dundee. It's an easy drive (around two hours) but very different scenery. I should really look at marketing a East meets West holiday break to our English visitors to encourage them to try both sides of Scotland.
Anyway, I won't be rushing back this afternoon as Jim has boys round to watch the rugby!

Misty - Rest in Peace

2011-02-21T08:51:00.000Z

Our beloved Highland mare - Misty (Trowan Highland Mist) died on Sunday morning of colic. She has suffered from this condition once before following a well meant but highly dangerous 'treat' from a customer. Horses have extremely delicate digestive systems and unlike most animals they cannot throw up. Once they have eaten something that upsets their tummies they are unable to do anything about it.

We will never know if Misty had taken something that she shouldn't have (or even eaten too much of something that in small doses is not harmful) but we do hope that all our customers will take note that our horses are not to be fed titbits of any description - they can, and sadly do, kill. You may think that one apple or one carrot is fine and won't do any harm but if everyone thought that way then you can see how these things snowball. Our other horses are wary of customers and generally keep out of their way, but Misty loved everyone and was very greedy.

Misty taught all our children to ride, attended numerous Pony Club rallies, camps and competitions and was extremely popular with all who knew her as she had a typical Highland personality. Over the last couple of years she had all but retired from work - but was still called upon to help out at Pony Club when needed for a child without a pony. She could turn her hoof to anything and had even raced around the gallops in her earlier years. She will be sadly missed by many of our regulars and our own children (who have all grown up with her) are devastated.

RIP Trowan Highland Mist

Valentines Competition! Puppy Love!

2011-02-02T11:14:00.000Z

It's pupply love time! The latest addition to the Battison family is a chocolate brown Lab by the name of Benjie - he is adorable! He is not the least bit fazed by Alfie (the Great Dane) towering over him and is as bold as brass. We thought it would be fun to run a wee competition on Facebook with our fans for a free 3 night break at Cologin in a two bedroom Inner Hebridean lodge as a prize.

Simply post your puppy pics on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/selfcateringoban

This one is just to get your going - our Benjie trying the cat flap for size.

If you are not a Facebook fan and still want to enter simply email your puppy pic to info@cologin.co.uk and I'll post on our Facebook page for you.

No restrictions on date, maximum occupancy of 6 - subject to availability - or simply use the 3 days as part of a weekly booking and just pay the balance. (Stay for 7 pay for 4).

And don't worry if your puppy pics are from way back when your pet was wee. We're just going to select the cutest puppy pic we can find. You have until 14th February 2011 to get your pictures posted or emailed and we'll be in touch with the winners by Facebook (and email).

Good Luck!

Welcome to 2011

2011-01-06T17:43:00.000Z

Happy New Year to all our customers! What a Hogmanay - one of our best yet! A great crowd of people, some totally bonkers dancing in the Barn, good music, fireworks, bonfire and drinks! The sun even came out on New Year's Day as we lit our BBQ and pretended it was not below freezing. The good thing about a cold clear night is the stars and I just wish I could photograph the view from the point as the heavens were filled with twinkling diamonds. Thanks as ever Bruce and Heather for your generosity. Thanks too Andrew and his team at the Barn for looking after Cologin customers over the Festive period. You deserve a well earned break now!

The Big Thaw!

2010-12-28T17:19:00.000Z

With perfect timing Cologin has seen a complete thaw over the last two days and whilst it was a beautiful WHITE CHRISTMAS it's a relief to finally see the green grass on our hills and the driveway free from snow just in time for the changeovers. I hope all our Christmas customers had a wonderful stay and I trust our Hogmanay visitors will also fall under the Cologin spell. The bonfire is getting bigger by the day and excitement is mounting as we prepare to see in the New Year.

Santa was very good to the Battison family this Christmas. Jim decided that the Great Dane was now mature enough to become the eldest dog so a new labrador puppy arrived gift wrapped just in time for lunch! Named Benjie by the girls, the chocolate lab makes Alfie look even bigger. I will upload some more photos when I can find the camera!

Snow, what snow!

2010-12-16T17:52:00.000Z

Well the severe weather warnings came home in the school bags last night but so far today we have only seen a few light flurries. No snow lying at Cologin or in Oban. My daughter is just home from Aberdeen (where she is at Uni) and the north east has had heaps of snow over the last few weeks, but still nothing of significance today. The younger girls have the High School Jingles Christmas dance tonight so we hope the snow will stay away as they will refuse to wear a coat over their (very short) dresses and platform high heels are not the best thing to wear on icy pavements!

I was hoping to post a video of the meteor shower over Scotland earlier this week but I completely failed to capture them - much better viewing them with the naked eye!

The Big Chill!

2010-12-08T13:04:00.000Z

Well it might look very pretty but quite frankly I'm looking forward to the thaw! The poor horses have been stuck in their stables for days as the ice underfoot makes it far too dangerous to get them out and onto their fields. We've only had two burst pipes so far - none in any of the lodges or houses, as we've left taps running and all the heating on frost control, but we completely forgot about the onsite laundry. A couple of bust pipes in there so we can't use the washing machines just now - fortunately we don't have many intrepid visitors at this time of year so it's not a complete disaster.

The forecast is for a thaw tomorrow so that will give us a chance to mend the pipes, grit the access road and turn the horses out. Hooray!

Hash House Harriers Enjoy Another Visit to Cologin

2010-11-09T22:06:00.000Z

Well it certainly looked like the Hashers were having fun! Their Saturday run at Seil Island was a tad wet, but on Sunday the skies were clear and cold and the sun shone for their traditional run around the hills and Lerags Glen. We had just over 100 on the rooming list and the odd extra in the car park - the Hash are our biggest group each year and they are among Cologin's oldest (and most regular) customers. I don't think they have missed a year yet and long may that continue.

Kayaks, Dolphins and Castles.

2010-09-01T10:12:00.001+01:00

Oban is the Sea Kayaking Capital of Scotland!
The inaugural Oban Sea Kayak Race begins and ends at Oban this Saturday (4th September) starting at 2:15pm. The race covers a distance of 20km and the route circumnavigates the beautiful and rugged Island of Kerrera. (All proceeds from Oban Sea Kayak Race will be in aid of Oban Lifeboat.).

The Battison family took our RIB round Kerrera the other evening as it was a glorious late summer night and the plan was to have a BBQ ashore in one of the bays at the back of the island (the other side from Oban Bay). That plan failed as I managed an unplanned swim whilst attempting to get from the RIB to the dinghy. As the matches were in my pocket we abandoned the plan! The evening was not a washout as on the way home we were joined by a pod of bottlenosed dolphins who surrounded the boat, leaping clear of the water and generally showing off! These glorious, graceful creatures always lift my heart. We all tried, and failed, to catch them on camera. It's almost impossible as you never know when or where they are going to surface. The pod was just off the southern tip of Kerrera - very near Gylen Castle and the kayak race will pass this way. I can't image what it would be like to be in a single kayak surrounded by dolphins but I imagine it would not be an experience you would easily forget!

NEXT YEAR'S PRICES NOW LIVE ONLINE

2010-08-27T17:11:00.000+01:00

The VAT rise in January has caused us a few headaches trying to set prices for 2011 and there may have to be some minor adjustments in the New Year as it's quite a big increase for us to absorb. We're already unpaid tax collectors for the Government so if we don't pass this increase on it will badly affect us. In most cases we have decided NOT to pass on the increase so 2011 rates are effectively cheaper than 2010!

One other major change to announce! The Barn Bar is now accepting dogs with their owners - as long as it's not during lunch or dinner service. This will be greatly welcomed by many of our customers who like to pop in for a pint and don't like leaving their pet by itself. Not sure if we'll bring Alfie the Great Dane up for a drink as he takes up so much room we'd never manage to get him to lie under a table and keep out of the way.

OBAN GAMES IN THE SUNSHINE

2010-08-26T14:48:00.000+01:00

Jim and I were honoured to be asked to take part in the Argyllshire Gathering parade through town to the games field for the Oban Games today. The sun shone and the pipes were in fine tune and it was a lovely day out. Mossfield (which just last week hosted the McAulay Cup Shinty Final) was bathed in sunshine and the crowds were out in force. We watched some of the Highland Games events and then had a lovely lunch in Eeusk. A welcome day away from the office!

West Highland Week

2010-08-04T13:30:00.000+01:00

The fleet has finally set off to Mull and as my husband and kids are all involved I have the house to myself at last! We've had an extra family staying with us as their kids are also crewing and last night we had the crews of Prime Cut, Aunt Jessie and Misjif for a BBQ in the stables. No doubt, the partying will continue in Tobermory tonight - if you are planning a day trip to Mull over the next two days beware!

Summer is back!

2010-07-23T12:59:00.000+01:00

After a wet week the sunshine has returned and it feels like summer again. We did have a bit of a water crisis in our glen and several of our neighbours were visiting Cologin for showers - thankfully the recent rain has replenished supplies and the burns are running freely once again. However, I didn't think that wishing for rain would be quite so successful.......anyway, the sun's out now and things are looking up.

The first of the Edinburgh - Oban day return trains arrives this Sunday. The junior Oban Pipe Band will meet the train and members of our local tourism association will be on hand to direct passengers to the local visitor information centre and hand out Oban Passports. Fingers crossed for a lovely sunny Sunday so that Oban can look at its best.

Pinemarten spotted in Cologin woods!

2010-06-29T15:09:00.000+01:00

Well okay - not this one.....but you have to be quick or very lucky to get a photo in the wild! This is not the first time we've had customers claiming to have sighted this elusive and rare creature. We're lucky in our part of Argyll we have plenty of forests and Pine martens are on the increase. Perhaps we should make more of them! People visit the forests of Mid-Argyll to see the Beavers!
If you are visiting Cologin then just ask to borrow field binoculars to take with you when you walk as you never know what you might spot. At least most mobiles these days have a decent camera so you can always take a picture - if you get the chance. If anyone does manage to snap one of the family of Pinemartens living in our woods then please upload your pics and videos to our facebook page.

NEW TRAIN SERVICE TO OBAN FROM EDINBURGH

2010-06-28T15:02:00.000+01:00

This summer you can visit Oban directly from Edinburgh by train on the 'Most Scenic Railway Journey in the World' which runs along the West Highland Line. There are some really good day return prices and it's a great way to experience the town as a day tripper to test it out for a future holiday. And don't forget to pick up an Oban Passport to use in the town's restaurants.

Alex from the Waterfront talks about shellfish on STV!

2010-06-09T11:01:00.000+01:00

As part of the Oban Passport launch STV interviewed Alex Needham, head chef at The Waterfront Restaurant and Bar in Oban. His interview is very information on how to cook and prepare shellfish and well worth a few minutes viewing. Click on Alex's interviews or copy and paste
http://video.stv.tv/bc/scotland-seeanddo-20100602-cooking-seafood/
into your browser.

Oban Circle - walks and trails in the Oban Area

2010-06-01T10:16:00.000+01:00

We are very proud to have Forestry Commission waymarked trails in the hills above Cologin but for those who want to venture further afield there is an interesting new website at www.obancircle.org.uk which is worth a look before you visit.

NEW VIDEO FOR COLOGIN - updated June!

2010-05-10T18:21:00.002+01:00

The man from mytownonvideo.com has been up to film at Cologin. Unfortunately we were fully booked with a large student group so he could not get in to film interiors of the lodges. He has promised to come back when the new playpark is finished (it's under construction just now) and do a re-edit. I'm not at all sure at the moment it does justice to our properties but I guess you have to try these things! Copy and paste into your browser - I got fed up with it opening automatically everytime someone went to our blog

http://www.mytownonvideo.co.uk/videos/AB265320240320T01.SWF?u=xbc&o=ybc&i=ybc&b=3&f=http://www.mytownonvideo.co.uk/videos/cologin.flv&d=ybc&a=ybc&v=80

A Passport for Oban!

2010-04-09T15:48:00.001+01:00

Great news for visitors - our local tourism association is running a loyalty scheme this year with a number of my favourite seafood restaurants in Oban and Lorn. You will be able to collect your passport from Cologin and each time you eat out you just need to get your passport stamped. You qualify for a free holiday in Oban with just 5 stamps and Oban Distillery and the Sealife Sanctuary can also stamp your passport. Prizes range from a weekend break to a full week's holiday for a family so if you are a regular visitor to Oban and eat out whilst you are here make sure you have your passport with you. The scheme will launch in May at the 'Festival of the Sea' http://www.marinesciencefestival.com/ and will be promoted throughout the central belt of Scotland with taxi, bus and train advertising.

There will also be a dedicated website for the Passport scheme and as soon as this is up and running I will let you know.

As further details are finalised I will update the blog.

Spring has finally Sprung!

2010-03-22T16:46:00.002Z

What a relief to see snowdrops in flower. Better late than never! The daffs probably won't be out until June at this rate. The ground is still pretty hard beneath the surface - on the up side that should mean we have a midge and tick free summer - which is good news for all those who like to enjoy being outside after dusk.

My girls will be home for the Easter hols this week. I can't believe the year is speeding by so quickly. I have only just recovered from Hogmanay! We have been very busy over the winter with the usual round of refurbishments and renewals. Several lodges have had new kitchens including the small Outer Hebridean chalets. All have been painted internally and we have added additonal roof vents to try to prevent condensation - ironically caused by the new double glazed window units that we installed a couple of seasons earlier.

The biggest single investment over the winter has been a £20k water treatment plant at Cologin. New pipes have been laid, a new tank installed and all the associated filtration systems to make sure that our lovely fresh spring water meets all the new EC regulations. It will still taste just as good as it is not being chemically treated.

We're full for the Easter weekend but still have a few vacancies for the school holiday period. We have come to the end of our Spring into Summer Offer but do keep an eye on the offer button as we may introduce our June Jollies .....

ONCE IN A BLUE MOON!

2010-01-08T10:59:00.000Z

Hogmanay was fantastic. Cold, dry, clear and a partial eclipse of a 'blue' moon (pictured) all added to the atmosphere. The midnight bonfire and fireworks were great. The Brass Monkeys (as ever) were fab and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves despite the sub zero temperatures. We have not had a day above freezing for weeks!

Very happy to report that New Year's Day dawned sunny, bright and very, very cold and I at least did not have a hangover! Just as well as last year I missed our BBQ at the point and with such glorious weather I did not want to do the same again.
We have now drained down most of the lodges as there are not too many folk venturing north for a break with the conditions so severe and travel so difficult across the country. One or two burst pipes already but fortunately to lodges that were due for new kitchens and carpets this winter. It may be very pretty with the snow and frost but it is certainly challenging to try and keep the water flowing. I hope we have a thaw soon!

Alfie enjoying his first white Christmas

2009-12-26T20:46:00.000Z

Alfie, our Great Dane puppy enjoyed the snow - he tryed to catch snow flakes as they fell on the patio! The weather has been great over Christmas - sunny days bringing the frost to life and making the snow covered hills glow pink. It has been very, very cold. Minus 7 during the day and probably minus 10 at night. The ski resorts are all open and we may head up to the hills tomorrow. We spent a lazy Boxing Day recovering from too much food and drink on Christmas Day - just the one walk around the field for the dogs and then back to the fire. It was a lovely day and even better as we went out for lunch so no washing up!

Still some late vacancies for Hogmanay - and we intend to bring in 2010 with gusto. I for one will be glad to see the back of it as it has not been the best year for me health wise. Hopefully next year will be far better - it starts well with my 50th birthday bash at The Barn. I'm looking forward to it already.

AN EARLY CHRISTMAS PRESENT TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS

2009-12-16T08:56:00.000Z

The Christmas spirit must be getting to Jim as he rarely (if ever) gives anything away and today he has agreed that I can give customers a holiday from credit/debit card transaction supplements!

There have been such problems recently with cheques going astray in the post (a regular occurence during the Festive season) that we really want to encourage more of our customers to book and pay via the secure server. It seems only fair that we should make that cost free for guests - you can even look upon it as a saving as you don't have to post us a cheque. Of course, we can still take payment in the traditional way (including postal orders) but if you are reading this blog you are already online so presumably already familiar with online booking and payment.

We do have a couple of cancellations for Hogmanay week so if you have not yet booked there are a few spaces. The Oban Hogmanay Street Party may have been cancelled but at the Barn our celebrations are going ahead - and it's all free for our guests. Live music, midnight bonfire, fireworks - our usual Heath Robinson bad weather extension for the kids and pets etc and our usual excellent house party atmosphere.

We hope to see you over the Festive Season - if we don't have a lovely Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Hogmanay Menu

2009-12-04T11:42:00.000Z

Just had a look at Andrew's Festive menus and both Christmas and Hogmanay look very tasty! I think we might just book ourselves a table for Christmas to save on all the bother or cooking a turkey. Hogmanay is usually a 'family hold back' situation as guests come first and tables are in big demand. We will probably do what we usually do and have dinner at home first and then go up to the Barn when the music and dancing starts. Our midnight bonfire this year will be spectacular as it is huge - I don't know where all these pallets have appeared from but they should certainly burn even if we get rain. Fingers crossed as ever for some good clear cold weather. Some vacancies left for both Christmas week and Hogmanay and this year for the first time we are accepting short breaks (4 and 5 night stays).

WATER WATER EVERYWHERE!

2009-11-21T11:47:00.000Z

Ironically, when the heavans have been more than generous with the supply of free water in the form of rain here are Cologin we have been battling with the construction of a new water treatment plant and all the groundworks that go with laying new water pipes from our collection well in the hills (fed by a natural spring) and the main tanks feeding the park, the Barn and all our houses. In fact, the loch at the top of our hill - Loch Gleanabhearaigh - forms the water resorvoir for Oban. So in a way we have the same water supply as the town centre - we just don't have a mains connection!

Our water has often been praised by guests as it is incredibly soft and as spring water it has a beautiful flavour. However, it can occassionaly take on a hint of colour from the peaty earth through which the spring emerges. The new filtrations system should sort this out and take the quality of our water to a standard that meets the latest EC regulation! Of course if we just bottled it at source we could sell it as Cologin Spring Water and it wouldn't need to meet any minimum standard! Such is the incomprehensible nature of the red tape that surrounds the EC.

First Frosts of 2010 at Cologin

2009-11-12T09:14:00.000Z

The Hash House Harriers filled the site to bursting last weekend and after they left on Monday morning Cologin appeared very quiet and tranquil! Personally, I love this time of the year. The Barn is on winter hours (Thursday pm to Monday pm) and mid week all I could see when out walking our (now very large) Grate Dane puppy were stars in the sky. It's been clear and cold at night with the first morning frosts appearing. Weekends still attract guests who come at this time of the year to relax and recharge their batteries. They can certainly find plenty of scenic spots to do that.

HASHERS DESCEND ON COLOGIN

2009-11-06T18:02:00.000Z

Edinburgh Hash House Harriers are here in force once again for their annual Oban weekend of fun and frolics - and a little bit of running! The group is 100 strong this year with a couple of overspill lodges down at Lagnakeil as well as taking over every chalet and lodge at Cologin. The byre has been cleared for a pre-dinner party (the group is too big for the Barn to feed in one go so all odd numbered chalets go first whilst the even numbered kick back in the byre and they they swop over). The band is booked for the post dinner bash and I will have to bring the horses in as this close to firework night there is bound to be fireworks!

DERBYSHIRE WEEKEND

2009-10-12T14:52:00.000+01:00

The Whisky Olympics (how the locals affectionatley refer to the National MOD) is in full swing and the weather is being kind with sunshine and blue skies. We're just back from a weekend away in Derbyshire and thoroughly enjoyed the change of scene. We were celebrating my father's 80th birthday with a surprise family get together (at Dove Farm Holiday Cottages) and came away impressed both with the countryside and the farm cottages. So much so that we are now looking at adding a private dining room/conference room to our facilities at Cologin. We have many family groups coming to us and whilst The Barn is a great location for everyone to get together, it has to be booked privately if you want to hold a conference/give a presentation of just have a bit more privacy. It really is good to get out and about and pick up other ideas from other businesses. If this one comes off it will be thanks to Dove Farm at Ellastone for the idea!

MOD WEEK MADNESS

2009-09-22T17:12:00.000+01:00

The MOD is just a few weeks away now and any choir that has left it until now to book accommodation will surely struggle in Oban. We have a small one bedroom chalet left but out large lodges have been booked for a year! It's 4 years since the MOD was last in Oban and it's fitting that it should return to its birthplace during Scotland's Year of Homecoming.

The End of Summer.....

2009-09-05T14:35:00.005+01:00

As I write this van loads of students are struggling to unload their kit in the driving rain that seems to have been a common theme of the last few weeks. August was a wash out weather wise and I can only admire the fortitude of those holidaymakers that 'dress for the weather' and manage to have a good time despite it. Certainly today is Autumnal and the longed for Indian Summer seems a long way off.

For my sins, I have been away in Glasgow from Monday to Friday for the last 6 weeks having treatment at the Beatson Centre. It's weird how you don't get a true feel for the weather in a city centre. Here you can see the weather changing as the clouds roll in and out. As I look over the hills I am guessing that within a few hours the present rain will have blown through. The disadvantage of living on the west coast is that we get the Atlantic fronts first - but then it does make good whisky and I have never watered a patio pot yet!

Alfie, our Great Dane puppy is now bigger than Lui the Lab - I guess I notice him growing as I am only home at the weekends. Katie, our eldest, did well in her exams and is off to Aberdeen Uni at the end of this month. The twins are back at school in Perth and the long summer holidays are becoming a memory. Jim and I need to sit down and work out our prices for 2010. We'll try to keep increases to a minimum and our returning customers will be able to cash in vouchers for all bar July and August bookings. If you don't get your voucher by email within the next month - get in touch. Technology is not infallible and sometimes emails go astray.

Max is now Alfie!

2009-08-01T10:01:00.002+01:00

The puppy has been renamed! Max just didn't do it for him and he refused to answer to it. We've gone with Alfie and he is much happier. Alf for misdemeanors, Alfie for praise and affection. Having had his second jag this week he has been allowed to meet a few of our visiting pets, including two huge Great Danes staying in one of our lodges. They were so big they simply put their heads over the stable door and looked out! At the moment as you can see from the photo, Alfie is still quite small. I wander how long that will last.

MAX JOINS THE COLOGIN CREW!

2009-07-26T20:31:00.002+01:00

Great excitement at Cologin this week as Max - our Great Dane puppy - took up residence at Cologin. He has already met most of the locals and is being shown the ropes by Lui (our old black lab) as he learns the rules of 'meet and greet' with our customers and more importantly their dogs. Lui is still top dog and ambles round the site checking out new smells and making friends with children. (Lui must be responsible for many black labs joining families on their return from Cologin!) We hope Max will follow his example and live up to his breed's reputation as a 'gentle giant'. Max's brother - Digby - is just down the glen at Lagnakeil, the pair together will be quite a sight.

Summer Season Starts

2009-06-15T18:58:00.003+01:00

After a busy last weekend in May and the welcome return of the Waverley seagoing paddle steamer to Oban , June got off to a relatively slow start despite superb early summer weather. Oban has pulled its finger out and the town has scrubbed up well for the busy season ahead with new banners, hanging flower baskets and a long overdue clean up of pavements and shopfronts.

It's always difficult to encourage business owners (and the Council) to spend money when times are uncertain but we must make sure that visitors come to Oban and leave happy and impressed as they then become Ambassador s for our town.

Bookings have been very up and down so far with everyone looking for a bargain and leaving it as late as possible to book. Many of the guest houses and B&Bs in town are full now for the summer but we still have a few properties left to sell. We held all our 09 prices at last year's level and online bookings trigger a late booking discount so those that are prepared to gamble can get a really good deal. Our summer rates in the two bedroom lodges are £550 - £625 peak season which is around £20 per person per night for a family of 4. Even cheaper just now. Add to that the Barn's excellent prices for drink (£2.80 for a gin and tonic, £2.70 for a pint and £2.95 for a glass of wine - those are the ones I know off by heart so don't tell my doctor) and a menu that makes the most of local produce and why go anywhere else!

On a personal note, I'm up and down the road to Oban rather more than I would like just now and as I write this I'm recovering from surgery - so if you book next week and you don't see me around Cologin you'll know why. Jim has no such excuse and he is holding the fort in my absence.

Arduaine Gardens Saved for 2009

2009-05-21T11:12:00.002+01:00

The campaign to fight the threatened closure to Arduaine Gardens near Oban has had an initial victory with the news that the Gardens will remain open for a year so that an endowment can be raised. The NTS announced today that The Jeniam Foundation has generously agreed to fund the deficit of the property for this period, enabling strenuous efforts to be made by all interested parties to fundraise. There is also a very generous offer from the McCoss family of an annual donation for the next 25 years. The Trust is in talks with the Loch Melfort Hotel to explore marketing opportunities and a new Friends Group has been formed to champion the garden. Anyone interested in supporting Arduaine Garden should contact the development team on development@nts.org.uk, or donations can be sent to Arduaine Garden, co Development Team, Wemyss House, 28 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, EH2 4ET.

Help Save Arduaine Gardens

2009-04-02T15:10:00.003+01:00

The National Trust for Scotland is trying to 'mothball' Arduaine Gardens - one of the most spectacular gardens on the west coast - in a cost cutting exercise. You might be able to throw a dust sheet over an antique table but you can't just ignore plants and leave a garden to its own devices.

If you would like to join the fight to save Arduaine then please follow this link and sign the online petition. There is a one month consultation period and we hope that NTS will reconsider this ill thought out move.

www.ipetitions.com/petition/arduainegarden

Save Arduaine Gardens

2009-04-02T15:03:00.000+01:00

One of the glorious gardens of Argyll - Arduaine Gardens - is currently under threat of closure. The National Trust for Scotland is trying to save money by 'mothballing' some of its properties. How on earth they expect a garden to be mothballed I don't know. You can't just throw a dust sheet over the rhodies and expect them to survice. Gardens needs constant care and attention if they are to thrive and develop. If you have not been to Arduaine I would urge you to go now. This is a classic West Coast garden with some very important plant species and spectacular displays of rhododendrons. The setting itself is magnificent with some of the best views in Argyll. Many of our visitors make Arduaine a regular trip on their holiday itinerary and it seems very short sighted of NTS to even think of closing it.

If you feel strongly that this beautiful west coast garden should be kep open please follow the link and sign the online petition.

www.ipetitions.com/petition/arduainegarden

March Madness

2009-03-17T09:13:00.000Z

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.

Family ski holiday - Off Piste no but Pissed off certainly!

2009-02-20T12:35:00.004Z

Wow! Just back from skiing with the family and the bank account has been cleaned out. The strong Euro (or weak pound depending on your viewpoint) had made a huge difference to all those extra costs even for an inclusive chalet deal as we had. Lunch was never less than £100 for 5 of us and a beer in the evening cost £7.50 per pint. Wine was at least £20 per bottle and even the local dish of Tarte Flette (potatoes, bacon and Rebluchon cheese) was around £13! It was hard to enjoy eating out with prices so high but when your kids have been skiing hard all morning in -14 degrees you can't just ignore their lunchtime hunger.

So glad to be back in Oban - we went out for dinner a couple of days later to celebrate both being back in the home of seafood and shellfish (try eating fish in a ski resort - not a good idea) and having change left over after paying the bill. There was a time in Oban many, many years ago when you would struggle to eat our well in the winter. What a different story now. The range and quality on offer here (and open all year) competes on equal terms with the best in the central belt and as far as seafood goes, Oban is far superior. It's nice to see the restaurants here still busy in the winter. Visitors come to Oban all year round now and the tourism industry is far better geared to the off season than in previous years.

I hope the Europeans take full advantage of the weak pound and come and visit us - they will surely find us a very cost effective destination. If you are thinking of going to Europe for your summer holidays beware the costs! Even better, book a holiday in the UK - save money, get a gold star from the Green Lobby and do your bit to support the tourism industry. Go one better and come to Oban. Sometimes you have to go away to appreciate what you have on your doorstep but after a week in the Alps I am delighted to be back home.

New Website for Oban

2009-01-30T15:56:00.002Z

In my role as chair of the local marketing group - OLTA - for the tourism industry in Oban I'm feeling pretty chuffed that our new http://www.oban.org.uk/ website is up and running. It's always been very popular but now the back end of the site has been redesigned so users can select not only the type of accommodation they wish to stay in but also refine their search by criteria such as: distance from Oban, star rating, wifi access, pets welcome, children welcome and disabled access.

OLTA has a new logo too - as you can see it's brighter, cleaner and more contemporary than our old one. The marketing group has a lot of exciting projects on the go in 2009. We are carrying out a re-branding exercise for Oban, which will be positioned as 'The Seafood Capital of Scotland'. We're running full colour half page ads in the Herald and Scotland on Sunday and rolling this programme out to regional papers in Newcastle and Yorkshire.

There's also other exiting projects underway in Oban which OLTA supports:

Oban Bay Marine have full planning permission for their developement of a short stay marina in Oban Bay.

Dunollie House has a major event planned for Homecoming 2009 and its Heritage Centre plans are well underway

The new golf course development to the north of the town centre (between Connel and Oban) looks likely to go ahead

The cycle route between Oban and Fortwilliam has many sections completed already and work is underway on joining the various routes up

Oban Hogmanay's event was voted 3rd best in Scotland and is now a firm feature in the calendar

Homecoming 2009 sees plenty of events and festival in Oban this year so check out their website for full details.

If you have not been to Oban for a few years you will see many changes for the better in and around the town. For that matter, if you have not been to Cologin for several years you will find us much improved as well. In this business, as in life, you can never afford to stand still - otherwise you go backwards!

Happy Hogmanay!

2009-01-02T11:56:00.002Z

What a Hogmanay! The bonfire at Cologin was huge and with no wind and a lovely clear starry night (albeit very chilly) we brought in the New Year with flames, fun and fireworks. The Brass Monkeys played to a full crowd in the Barn and our 'Heath Robinson' extension provided extra space and room for the kids who could enjoy the music without coming into the pub itself. My dancing feet gave up around 4am but there were still plenty of folk around with more stamina bopping away when I left.

I blame my bout of flu but New Year's Day passed me by and for once I did not make it down to the point for the annual Glen BBQ. Such a shame as the weather was glorious - thick frost everywhere and lovely winter sunshine. In Oban. the street party went off without a hitch and my daughters report that numbers were around 7,000 so well done to the organising committee as there had been doubts that the town could support an event of that size. Having the Red Hot Chilli Pipers as the star attraction helped bring in visitors to swell the local numbers and with good weather the party certainly was a festive finale to the old year and a fitting start to the Year of Homecoming 2009.

It's now the 2nd January 2009 and a couple of chalets have already left with the majority departing tomorrow. We will then be very quiet for a few weeks - always a shock after Hogmanay with people everywhere. At least the weather has warmed up slightly as the clouds have rolled in this morning. It's still dry and the sky is still blue but I guess we won't see such heavy frosts overnight tonight. Now all I have to do it to catch up with the emails and bookings. A lot of our Hogmanay guests book for next year as they are leaving - which is lovely as we get to know them better each year. And that's one leaving now so I had better get back to work!

Happy Christmas!

2008-12-26T13:21:00.002Z

Not a white Christmas but a great one all the same! We celebrated in the Farmhouse with the Mossman family from Lagnakeil and an enormous turkey. Still feeling full and today is Boxing Day. The Barn was busy with Christmas Lunches and the usual stream of locals popping up for a pint whilst the turkey cooked. Not sure what's happening next door in the Barn today as so far I have not managed to move from in front of the fire. Today is definitely one for rest and recovery. Tomorrow we are back in full swing as most of the Hogmanay arrivals are due in. Surprisingly we still have a lodge free - that's not happened in many years. I guess the credit crunch is responsible and no one can foresee what will happen in 2009 but we rather hope that we will fill up with Europeans enjoying our weak pound. With European holidays looking like being very expensive and people holidaying at home we may have a bumper year but there is just no way of knowing. We have held all our prices for 09 and in fact prices are cheaper having adjusted the VAT rate so we hope to be busy. Just now I am quite happy to have a few days peace and quiet before the mayhem and madness of New Year. Of course the internet means we are open for business 24/7 but that's the beauty of online booking!

Some of our guests are heading in to Oban for the 'Year of Homecoming' Hogmanay Street Party in Tesco carpark , but for most (many of whom have been coming to Cologin at New Year for generations) the bells will be brought in with our traditional bonfire and fireworks with live music supplied by The Brass Monkeys and booze supplied by the Barn. Hangovers are optional but a good brisk walk to the point at Loch Feochan usually does the trick on New Year's Day.

I am already looking forward to it and just in case I forget on the day itself - Happy New Year!

Winter is Here...

2008-12-02T12:30:00.002Z

Wrap up warm if you are heading our way this week. Clear skies mean cold nights and whilst the main roads are well gritted the single track road into our glen requires care so don't speed! It's nice to see a bit of snow before Xmas. I can't remember a Christmas at Cologin when we haven't had a few flakes of the white stuff either before, during or after the turkey. I never make promises but my young neices assume that if they come to us for Christmas they WILL be building a snowman.

VAT change - new prices!

2008-11-24T18:20:00.002Z

Following today's announcement of a new VAT rate of 15% until January 2010 we have adjusted our accommodation rates to reflect the reduced rate. Let's hope it does stimulate business and encourages more bookings! Don't forget there are reduced VAT rates for long stays so if you are looking for a winter let whilst up in Oban on extended business give us a call and we can discuss your needs. We're open all year round at Cologin and although the Barn runs on winter hours (open from 5pm Thursday to 11pm Monday during the winter and open every day and night throughout the Christmas school holidays) there are always folk around and about.

Perhaps you want to get away from it all - we may be only 3 miles from the hustle and bustle of Oban town centre but at Cologin you truly do feel as if you are in a rural idyll away from the crowds.

Spa Break

2008-11-23T19:53:00.003Z

Just returned from a totally indulgent Spa break at nearby Isle of Eriska Hotel. Beppo's staff were wonderful and his lovely hotel justly deserves its five star status and reputation for understated luxury. With good company, superb food, a five star bedroom (with wonderful views) AND a relaxing ESPA hot stone body massage, swin, sauna and steam I have returned renewed, refreshed and reinvigoured -ready to face another week. We didn't see the legendary Eriska hotel badgers, but sitting in the bar after a fantastic dinner, sipping port and watching the snow gently falling outside the window was good enough for me. Slept like a log - surprised to find the gentle knock on my door was at 9am - I could have slept on. Breakfasted like a King this morning and pretended to swim it off in the pool. (It would take more than a few leisurely laps to work off black pudding, sausage, bacon, poached egg, tomatoe and mushroom. I should have stopped after the fresh fruit and yoghurt but how can anyone resist.) Got back to Cologin and considered the possibility of adding a sauna and steam room! Strangely enough Henry (who owned Cologin for 25 years before selling to us in 1999) had planning permission for a sauna - I guess that will have lapsed now but just might be worth having another look. In the meantime, guests here will just have to make do with our wildlife (loads of deer have come down off the hills to graze at lower levels this week), peace and tranquility. They can always pop into Oban and grab a sauna at Atlantis Leisure - I hear Oban Bay Hotel also does a very good massage in their Spa!

'Winter Warmers' - Special Offer and Price News

2008-11-13T18:00:00.003Z

Book any property from now up to 20th December and get an extra night for free! Book online and add Winter Warmer in the booking notes and we will adjust your rate to give you 3 nights for the price of 2 or 4 for 3 etc. So far we have not been able to incoroporate this into our online booking system so you will have to bear with us whilst our computer boffs work on the technical stuff! The late booking discount is already in place if you do only want 2 nights but if you want to stay on an extra night please book the correct dates online (or give us a call on 01631 564501) and we'll do the rest.

You'll also notice that we are no longer charging for extra bed linen - we'd like to! It just all got too complicated. If you are booking to use the sofa beds we will provide the extra bed linen for free - if you don't book the sofa beds, bed linen is only provided for the main beds (and they will be made up for your arrival).

All prices have been held for 2009 and in some cases we've applied a 'credit crunch' beating discount on off peak weeks and even early summer.

New Website Live

2008-11-13T09:51:00.002Z

Lucy has just finished the re-design for our cologin.co.uk website. Hopefully you will find it brighter, cleaner and more contemporary than our old one. In the spring we will take some new photos on site as there have been one or two changes. There is a new two bedroom lodge annex in the farmhouse paddock which will hopefully be in use next season. The farmhouse lets very well and is especially popular with family groups. With a total of five large bedrooms we can accommodate up to 15 (no more than 10 if adults) using the day beds and bunk beds but even so, groups often book additional lodges as well. This has caused a few problems for us as our lodges change over on a different day to the farmhouse so this 'Farmhouse Lodge Annex' will change over on a Friday and will only be let to groups booking the farmhouse. Hopefully that will keep everyone happy and those big groups can spread out a bit more.

Horsey B&B now on offer @ Cologin

2008-11-05T15:22:00.002Z

After a great deal of work, time and effort the American Barn has been finished with four large internal stables - two of which are to be offered for horsey B&B or DIY livery for visiting customers. We've always encouraged guests to bring their pets away with them on holiday and over the years we've welcomed rabbits, cats, dogs, tortoises and budgies. We can now accommodate our larger four legged friends so if you fancy a weekend away with your horse to explore some new trails and scenery Cologin's the place for you! We've a lovely wood fibre arena just a few minutes up the glen and wonderful off road hacks around the hills from our farm. If you want further information do get in touch.

Edinburgh Hash House Harriers

2008-11-04T13:47:00.005Z

Another busy weekend with around 100 Hashers at Cologin, running around the hills and dancing on the tables in the Barn in the evenings. Wonderful winter sunshine and not a hint of breeze made for excellent running conditions (not that I would know) and everyone had a brilliant time. I have just finished apologising to a few of our locals annoyed by the Hashers false flour trails, however, no lasting damage done. The club has been coming here for over 25 years and the locals know what to expect! We look forward to seeing them again next year.