After spending 12 years in the Falkland Islands, where growing conditions were different, Don and Margaret Davidson began gardening on the slopes at Abriachan above Loch Ness in 1983.

The garden, between two streams, now extends to four acres. A lot of stone was moved around to create interest and terraces.

Seasonal highlights include colour-themed summer beds, primulas, hellebores and hardy geraniums. Paths wind through mature native birch, hazel and oak woodlands.

Visitors are often surprised at the vitality and large variety of plants growing this far north. There is a wealth of material such as euchryphias, hebes, olearias and flaxes, normally happiest at home in Australia, Tasmania or New Zealand.

Young plants brought on and tended with loving care in polythene tunnels or glass houses also provide for a demanding mail order business.

Guided walks can be enjoyed in the woods and outwards into the community forest, the largest in Britain.

Seats positioned at strategic points throughout the garden give visitors a chance to relax, appreciate their immediate surroundings and scan Loch Ness for the fabled monster.

n Garden open: February to November. 9am-dusk.

Location: directly off the A82 north of Drumnadrochit, nine miles south of Inverness.

Admission by collection box. Adults #1.50. Guided walk enquiries: Tel: 01463 861232.

Open nearby: Coiltie Garden. Daily until July 31, 12 noon to 7pm. Admission #1.50. From Drumnadrochit, road is signposted to Divach.