Summer Camp 2024 - Lochgoilhead Scotus Centre

This summer we attended Lochgoilhead Scout Activity Centre in the Scottish Highlands. The camp was part of the ongoing celebrations for the Groups Centenary - It was also 20 years since we last visited as a group! The event was attended by Cub, Scout and Explorer sections plus Adults - A total of 35 people. The group travelled from HQ by coach to the site - which took all day! Arriving just in time for a quick site tour and tea. After a few hours to settle in it was straight to bed ready for a full week of fun, challenging and adventurous activities. The week consisted of a range of activities; Being located on a Scottish loch there was a heavy focus on water activities. Kayaking, canoeing, Paddleboarding and Power boating to name a few. There was also a large number of land based activities; including Jacobs ladder, mountain biking and rock climbing. Mid week - the Group had a free day to occupy ourselves. In the morning we took to the hills and completed a local walk. In the afternoon, we attended the neighbouring holiday centre to make use of their swimming pool - always best to ensure everyone gets a good wash mid week! The last two days of the week consisted of the Young people choosing a water based badge to complete (Paddle sports or Nautical skills). Focused sessions saw everyone completing either stage 1, 2 or 3 of the badgework. As we were in the Highlands, the weather was unpredictable. The first half of the week was very wet, however this didn't stop everyone getting stuck in and having a good time. We were rewarded by the end of the week with a good few days of sunshine. Whatever the weather, all could agree that the location was unbeatable - when you walked out of the accommodation the first thing you saw was a mountain, then everywhere else you looked you were surrounded by mountains! The staff on the site were incredibly accommodating and made our week feel very personal. Also a big mention to Gordon - the jolly chef - who kept us all well fed throughout the week. All in all it was a very memorable week for all and I'm sure we will return in the future! A special mention to the following organisations who without their generous contributions, this camp would not have been possible. - Portobello Scout group - City Health Care Partnership Foundation - Hull & East Riding Charitable Trust