Attadale Gardens are set in 20 acres, with an inspirational water garden stretching the length of the drive, and colourful planting reflected in the black water. There is an impressive sculpture collection, and a large rhododendron collection, many over 100 years old. Other features include a Japanese garden, a fern garden with tender ferns in a geodesic dome, and an interesting DIY tearoom, with delicious home-baking and interesting historic photographs.
Where is Attadale Gardens located?
Only 3 miles off the North Coast 500, on the way to the Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle, the Gardens are easily found on the South side of Loch Carron. Visitors can take the train from Inverness, Kyle or points in between, and just cross the road to visit. It is well sign-posted by brown tourism signs from both directions.
What style of garden is Attadale Gardens?
Attadale Gardens are a painter's garden, and Nicky Macpherson has spent the last 30 years developing many different and interesting areas within the garden. A charming kitchen garden is filled with neat hedges where lettuces, cabbages, potatoes and many other vegetables flourish, as well as step-over espaliered apples lining the main pathway. In addition, the fern garden includes a sunken garden as well as the geodesic dome. There is the old rhododendron dell, where they grow as high as 100 feet. Water is the main challenge here, and it has to be drained away through many different channels, both old and new. A woodland walk can also be explored, so an hour or two can easily be spent meandering through the grounds. Benches provide places to rest.
What can guests enjoy at Attadale Gardens?
Children enjoy searching for 20 sculptures scattered through the gardens. They can run about on the lawns and explore the woodland walks. There is a spectacular view from the viewpoint above the house, down Loch Carron and out to the Isle of Skye beyond. The DIY tearoom means that visitors can help themselves to delicious home-baking or sandwiches, while enjoying a hot drink and learning more about the gardens, their history and the many international plants illustrated on the walls. The sunken garden in front of the house provides colour throughout the seasons and a context with the mountains beyond. Dogs are also welcome on a lead. Visitors can walk up the glen after their visit.
Other Information
An alternative route is to reach the gardens is by train, and there are four trains a day in both directions, except on Sunday.
