As 2008 is the long awaited year of upheaval and making good at Raasay House, we are shifting the Raasay Rumble event village to Steve White's back garden. Worry not, as Steve lives in a cottage, attached to which is a huge walled orchard that used to service Raasay House. We will be re-creating as much of the splendor that was found in the Blue Lounge and Dolphin Cafe up here. It's sheltered, buzzing and will be at the heart of the racing and partying. If you are keen for some pre-race trials and practice for the super-technical riding; it's all around you as Steve's 'built' playground continues to expand ... there is the see saw for starters.
Raasay House is an awesome 250 year old Clan Mansion standing in its own grounds, on the shores of the evocative sound of Raasay. It overlooks the sea, a sandy beach and small harbour with views across to the Isle of Skye. Raasay House will be at the heart and soul of the Raasay Rumble again in 2009. But for now the iconic building is receiving some care and attention that Raasay Outdoor Centre directors Lyn, David and Freya have been fighting hard to achieve for 13 years.
Follow the developments at Raasay House on their blog: http://raasayhouse.blogspot.com/
The Outdoor Centre keeps alive the spirit of enquiry, exploration, adventure and discovery that led visitors to these Islands, so long ago. It truly is a place where time seems to stand still for a while.
Raasay's heather clad moorland, forests and sea cliffs are home to some sixty species of birds including golden eagles, buzzards, kestrels & grouse. In summer the sheltered bays and sandy inlets [in the warm Gulf Stream] are alive to the call of nesting waders, oystercatcher, sand piper and curlew. The inshore waters with their abundance of shellfish & the fresh water streams and lochs provide an island 'playground' for otters. Flowers & plants produce a pageant of colour; from the early spring with its violets, primroses and bluebells, through to the rich colours of the rhododendrons and fragile wild orchids, to purple heather and the golden and red blaze of montbrecia, fuchsia and rowan berries in the late autumn. It truly is a stunning island where the flora and fauna is as exciting as the event around you.
| Inverness Airport | bus service available |
| The Sleeper Train | from London Euston |
| Caledonian MacBrayne | ferry services |
The Raasay Rumble is open for entries. To enter, click on the button and follow the online entry instructions.
