(Episode 1 of 3)

The Islands Project is a series of short films inspired by three islands that can be found resting quietly in two of the most beautiful parts of Scotland. Rarely visited, these islands are rife with history, folklore and tales from long ago.


In this first episode I begin our journey on Loch Lomond at the island known as I Vow. Once belonging to Clan Macfarlane, the remains of a castle are still present amongst the trees and wildflowers.


Looking across from the bonnie banks before starting the paddle across in my kayak, the island seemed relatively insignificant and gave away few clues of its interior. The closer I got though, the more it began to reveal. The weather was exceptionally good on the day of my visit. The sun was shining and the loch was relatively calm. I had no intention of visiting the island that day. I was travelling south on my way back home after a week long roadtrip in the Northern Highlands. I arrived at the most northerly point of Loch Lomond and began the drive down the western side of the loch. I caught a glimpse of the island through the trees, illuminated by beautiful shafts of light, the kind of light that seems to only exist in Scotland. That dreamlike mist that appears out of nowhere and then dissapears without trace within moments. A light so pure it makes you question yourself as to whether you witnessed it or just imagined it. The island was golden, glowing, almost unreal. I decided right then and there that I had no option other than to delay returning home and visit the island immediately.


The thing about islands is they don't work to your plans.


Of course, you have to have a plan in terms of the equipment and supplies that are necessary to visit them safely, but when it comes to the actual process of getting in a kayak or boat and visiting them you have to be prepared to change your plans and act quickly. There is always an element of danger when crossing open water, and in Scotland in particular, the weather can change without warning and should not be underestimated.


I knew that I would not get a chance like this again.


Arriving on the island the remains of the castle appeared through the trees and the scale of everything felt completely different in comparison to its unassuming appearance from back on the mainland. It was like entering a hidden world, a secret garden that had been left to its own devices. Unspoilt by the restless hands of man. A ropeswing was the only evidence that could be found from any modern day visitors.


There is something magical about these places. They don't seem to follow the ordinary rules of time. They exist outside of it somehow. The modern world has little effect on them.


Throughout history all around the world there is evidence of our links to these places.


What is it about an island that is so special?

Why are we drawn to them?

What knowledge has been lost in time about their importance?



I would love to hear about your thoughts and experiences of islands, wherever you are in the world.




My intention in making this series was simple. Visit three islands and film my journey. My aim then was to create a piece of music to accompany the footage and write a few words about my visit. I hope that you enjoy this brief glimpse of a place that few people ever see.


Website:
https://www.threeeaglesrecordings.com

Find out more about Loch Lomond and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code:

https://www.lochlomond-trossachs.org

https://www.outdooraccess-scotland.scot


Thanks for watching
Peace, Love and Freedom.
Three Eagles


©️ Copyright Stephen Taylor - Three Eagles Recordings 2021 All Rights Reserved.

#islands #ivow #lochlomond