Today I returned from a week of sailing off the west coast of Scotland. Excellent sailing weather (winds force 4 to 5, light cloud cover most of the time but only occasional rain); breathtaking scenery; great company.

Sailing with friends, we chartered the yacht from Portway at Craobh Marina south of Oban, and sailed anti-clockwise round Mull, with overnights at Tobermory, Bunessan and various picturesque lochs (Spelve and Craignish). Also passed through the Sound of Iona (which unfortunately was misty, spoiling views!) and visited the islands of Staffa (seeing Fingal's cave from the sea) and Lunga (famous for its bird colonies).

For more photos see my album and also Ken Boullier's blog. Ken has now finished a three month sabbatical, from his work as a parish priest, to gain his Yachtmaster ticket and to explore sailing a way of developing leadership skills and of spiritual retreat. I think he's on the right track!