|
Now you might not immediately associate the idea of a Scottish cruise with geology but there’s a very famous exhibition at Corpach (near Loch Linnhe) that’s a major attraction and stopping off point. All that Glitters is not Gold Perhaps you painfully associate geology with school-room lessons and pieces of bland-looking rock that you added chemicals to many years ago in an attempt to make them ‘fizz’ or similar. Alternatively, you may really love geology and minerology and be keen to explore the unique nature of the ground that makes northern Scotland so different to the rest of the UK. Whichever is the case, you’re bound to enjoy a stop off at Corpach when holidaying on a Scottish cruise. That’s because it’s home to the largest private collection of minerals anywhere in Europe, all visible in a fantastic display area. If you suspect this is all going to be dusty cases and labels, then think again. The ‘Treasures of the Earth’ exhibition is beautifully put together with the vast collection of rocks being housed in rooms designed to give the impression of caves. You’ll see just about every colour of rock and crystal imaginable displayed and there are also exhibitions providing a fascinating insight into how they’re mined and where. There will certainly be some that are very gold in appearance but which are, in fact, something quite different but there is also plenty of real gold on display too. It will be interesting to see if you can spot the difference! Who Turned Out the Lights? When you first enter, don’t be alarmed by the dim lighting or in one area, the almost totally dark surroundings. That’s designed specifically so you can appreciate the colours and luminosities of the minerals. Some are completely florescent and seeing them glow in the dark is strangely eerie. There are also some nice outdoor exhibits too like the tipping trucks, designed to simulate a working mine. Of course, it has to be acknowledged that in spite of the great layout and stunning beauty of the exhibits, younger visitors can tire of looking in cases and the centre caters for wider interests well. Children are fascinated by things such as the genuine dinosaur egg nest and the sabre-toothed tiger skull and there is a kids’ display and discover area. So, is this for you as part of your Scottish cruise experience? Summary However much one enjoys the indulgent relaxation of a Scottish cruise in the Highlands, it’s nice to get off the vessel and stretch your legs. The Treasure of the Earth exhibition is a great chance to do so and it’s likely to appeal to the vast majority of people – young or old. Deep down there’s something in many of us that likes to think about digging up treasures and many of these incredible displays are certainly examples of that. The information provided is enough to give you a good overview of the display and a bit of the science behind it without drifting into lecturing or trying to repair the damage caused by your failure to listen carefully all those years ago in school. In other words, there’s a good balance between entertainment and education. Many people over the years who have made this stop at Corpach during their Scottish cruise have been fascinated by the museum and highly recommend it. You probably will too! Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury Scottish cruise barge holidays. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
Related Articles -
Scottish, Cruise,
| 
