Darach Croft is just above Strontian on the edge of the Ariundle Oakwoods. A tranquil location with views over the valley where you can relax and unwind; meet our herd of Pygmy Goats who just love to play; learn new skills with are nature-based craft workshops and activities; and reduce stress and anxiety whilst immersing yourself in the beautiful and tranquil Ancient Oakwoods an guided Forest Bathing and nature connection walk.
Goat Walking and Nature-Based Craft Activities: Join us for a fun but often chaotic walk with our Pygmy Goats, or learn about spinning, weaving and turning sheep’s fleece into art, craft and clothing. We offer one to one sessions and workshops on:
- Wool Preparation
- Spinning wool
- Dyeing using natural dyes
- Weaving
- Candlemaking
All our activities can be tailored to your interests and abilities.
Forest Bathing and Nature Connection Activities: Hugh offers group and individual Forest Bathing walks and Nature Connection activities across West Lochaber.
Forest Bathing is a health-promoting, nature connection practice that aims to enhance mental and emotional wellbeing and relieve stress and anxiety. It involves walking slowly and leisurely through the woods or forest, immersing yourself in the natural environment and mindfully using all your senses. In this way people often find it physically, psychologically and emotionally beneficial to spend time ‘bathing’ in the atmosphere of the forest.
A guided Forest Bathing walk usually lasts around two to three hours, but we may only walk about half a mile. During this time, as your guide, Hugh will periodically stop to offer you Forest Bathing ‘invitations’. These are suggested activities intended to encourage you to connect with the natural world around you through your different senses, heightening your sensory awareness and increasing your nature connection (hugging trees is optional!).
We usually end each walk with the Forest Bathing practice 'Sit Spot’ (a nature-mindfulness activity) and a Tea Ceremony with a cup of locally foraged tea.You can find out more about Forest Bathing and its benefits on our website.
