Blether In The Heather

West Coast Today
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Meeting the people behind the places that everybody loves to visit across Argyll and the Isles Discover secret gems , exquisite food , great places to visit and the people behind the scenes that make all the magic happen. Fast, friendly and a bit silly sometimes - there are some delicious treats involved, a bit of quizzing but most importantly really good conversation Sponsored by Wild About Argyll https://www.wildaboutargyll.co.uk/

Episodes

  1. Sep 23

    9 - Rustic Reconnection

    Nestled in one of Scotland's most breathtaking landscapes, close to Oban, Inverlonan is a place where luxury, sustainability and the great outdoors come together. In this episode of Blether in the Heather, Nicky Murphy talks to owner Lupi Moll about this remarkable Highland estate to discover the story behind its beautifully restored cottages, award-winning restaurant, the new 9-bed hotel opening in November 2026 and their unique approach to hospitality. From its fascinating history and stunning scenery to Lupi’s passion for bringing slow and mindful experiences to life, join us for an inspiring conversation about creating unforgettable experiences at Inverlonan. Whether you're planning a visit or simply love Scotland and extraordinary places, this episode is not to be missed. @inverlonan @loveoban @wildaboutargyll @visitscotland#inverlonan #wildaboutargyll #loveoban #obantourism #scottishbothy #slowtourism #ecotourism #visitscotland #ecoluxury #bothylife #digitaldetox #wellnessretreat #rustictourism #inverlonanestate #agritourism #wildscotland #scottishproduce #firecooking #mindfultravel #lupimoll #lochnell SHOWNOTES: Lupi Moll is the owner of Inverlonan – a beautiful 1,400-acre estate tucked away in Glen Lonan, just outside Oban. Lupi has been described as both a former barrister and environmental entrepreneur. He shares the story behind Inverlonan and his vision for creating a different kind of escape – one centred around nature, sustainability, great local food and simply switching off. From award-winning off-grid bothies and dining experiences to conservation, rewilding and exciting plans for Inverlonan’s new Landscape Hotel and Restaurant, this is a blether about reconnecting with the land and doing tourism a little differently. This episode is sponsored by www.wildaboutargyll.comClick for more information on the www.inverlonan.com Blether in the Heather Team: Podcast presenter: Nicky MurphyPodcast producer: Stephen DayPodcast production assistant: Christine CraigEmail: nmurphy@wyvexmedia.co.uk

    9 - Rustic Reconnection

  2. Sep 16

    8-The Provident Pod

    Step aboard one of Scotland's most cherished traditional sailing vessels and discover the remarkable story of Provident. Built in 1924 as a Brixham sailing trawler, this beautifully restored vessel now offers unforgettable sailing adventures along Scotland's spectacular west coast. In this episode of Blether in the Heather, Nicky Murphy talks to owner and Skipper Steve Jones, explores the history, heritage and enduring appeal of this iconic boat and his passionate dedication to preserving her legacy. From life under sail to the stunning coastal scenery she calls home, this is a fascinating journey through maritime history that will inspire sailors, adventurers and lovers of Scotland alike. @providentsailing @loveoban @wildaboutargyll @croabhmarina#providentsailing #loveoban #wildaboutargyll #brixhamtrawler #classicsailing #sailingthehebrides #nationalhistoricfleet #sailscotland #visitscotland #coll #colonsay #scottishislands #mallaig #argyllandbute #islandhopping #hebrides SHOWNOTES:Provident is a 101-year-old wooden Brixham trawler – a true crown jewel of British sailing heritage. Steve Jones, owner and skipper is an experienced sailor with over 20 years of experience on the water. He has skippered vessels extensively across British waters, the French coast, the Caribbean, and both the Greek and Italian Mediterranean.  This episode is sponsored by www.wildaboutargyll.comClick for more information on the www.providentsailing.co.ukBlether in the Heather Team: Podcast presenter: Nicky MurphyPodcast producer: Stephen DayPodcast production assistant: Christine CraigEmail: nmurphy@wyvexmedia.co.uk

    8-The Provident Pod

  3. Sep 9

    7-Looped in to K66

    More than just a circular driving route, Kintyre 66 is an invitation to slow down and discover one of Scotland's most spectacular and undiscovered regions, looping round the east and west coast. In this episode of Blether in the Heather, Nicky Murphy talks to Iain Johnston explores the people, places and experiences that make the Kintyre peninsula so unique. From dramatic coastlines and hidden beaches to local food, heritage, wildlife, unforgettable hospitality and an incredible calendar of events including the Mull of Kintyre Music Festival (MOKfest), discover why this circular route is capturing the imagination of visitors from across the UK and beyond. If you're looking for inspiration for your next Scottish adventure, this episode is the perfect place to start. SHOWNOTES: Iain Johnston is a Campbeltown-based tourism and events professional with a deep knowledge of Kintyre and a passion for showcasing everything the peninsula has to offer. Iain supports the growth and promotion of local tourism, helping businesses and communities work together to create memorable visitor experiences. He also plays the lead role in the Mull of Kintyre Music Festival and has been closely involved in the development and promotion of the Kintyre 66. His enthusiasm for the area, its communities and its hidden gems makes him the perfect guide to the story behind this increasingly popular west coast route. This episode is sponsored by www.wildaboutargyll.comClick for more information on the Kintyre 66 @kintyre66 @mokfest @wildaboutargyll @visitscotland @explorekintyre#kintyre66 #wildaboutargyll #explorekintyre #visitscotland #scottishroadtrip #hiddengemsargyll  #skipness #campbeltown #isleofgigha #machrihanish #mullofkintyre #southend #carradale #torrisdale #argyll #westportbeach #springbank #machdunes #glenscotia #argyllandbute

    7-Looped in to K66

  4. Sep 2

    6-Sonas = Happiness

    Episode 6 Blether in the Heather in conversation with Andreas Maszczyk, Group General Manager of Sonas Hotel Collection. Set on the shores of Loch Feochan, just south of Oban, Knipoch House Hotel combines centuries of Highland history with warm hospitality and exceptional food in a truly unforgettable setting. In this episode of Blether in the Heather, Nicky Murphy chats to general manager Andreas Maszczyk to learn more about his background and discover the story behind the restoration of this charming country house hotel under the umbrella of the Sonas Hotel Collection. From award-winning 7-course dining and luxury accommodation to its stunning surroundings and rich heritage, join us as we uncover what makes Knipoch House Hotel a place guests return to time and time again. SHOWNOTES:Andreas Maszczyk is Group General Manager of the Sonas Hotel Collection, bringing more than 25 years of international hospitality experience to the family-owned Scottish hotel group. Passionate about exceptional Highland hospitality, people and memorable guest experiences, Andreas has played a key role in Sonas’ growth, including its expansion into Argyll with Knipoch House Hotel.For more info: Knipoch House Hotel This episode is sponsored by www.wildaboutargyll.com Blether in the Heather Team: Podcast presenter: Nicky MurphyPodcast producer: Stephen DayPodcast production assistant: Christine CraigEmail: nmurphy@wyvexmedia.co.uk @knipochhousehotel @loveoban @wildaboutargyll @visitscotland #knipochhouse #sonashotels #luxuryoban #lochfeochan #hotelsoban #loveoban #argyllandbute #theforeshore #1635restaurant #boutiquehotel #hottubwithaview #dogfriendlyhotel

    6-Sonas = Happiness

  5. Aug 26

    5-Sweet Success

    Episode 5 in conversation with Helen Mackechnie of Oban Chocolate Company Whether you're a devoted chocolate lover or simply enjoy hearing stories from inspiring local businesses, this episode is guaranteed to leave you craving more. Sponsored by Wild About Argyll #obanchocolatecompany #obanchocolate #loveoban #obanfood #obanattraction #wildaboutargyll #visitscotland #chocolate #obancoffee #argyllandbute #shoplocal #cafeculture #scottishchocolate #scotland #westcoast #smallbusiness #familybusiness

    5-Sweet Success

  6. Aug 19

    4-Passion Bottled

    With its stunning castle on the Kintyre coast to award-winning self-catering accommodation, the renowned Beinn an Turic distillery’s Kintyre Gin, delightful café and a pioneering green energy scheme, Torrisdale Estate is a remarkable example of modern diversification within a traditional Highland setting. In this episode of Blether in the Heather, Nicky Murphy meets owner Niall Macalister-Hall to discover how history, innovation and sustainability combine to create one of Scotland's most inspiring destinations. Hear the story behind the estate, the family who call it home, and the passion that drives its diverse businesses. Whether you're fascinated by Scottish heritage, love discovering hidden gems or are planning your next adventure, this episode is full of inspiration. Episode sponsored by Wild About Argyll #torrisdalecastle #kintyredistillery # #kintyre66official #kintyre #wildaboutargyll #explorekintyre #ecotourism #visitscotland #lovekintyre #scottishcastles #beinnanturic #selfcateringscotland #argyllandbute @wildaboutargyll @torrisdalecastleestate @kintyre66 SHOWNOTES: Torrisdale Castle Estate is a 200-year old, multi-generational family-run estate where stunning landscape, history and innovation come together. From its Victorian castle and unique accommodation to its working distillery producing Kintyre Gin, it offers a truly immersive experience. At the heart of it all is Niall McAllister Hall, alongside his wife Emma and their young family, shaping a way of life that blends heritage with sustainability, diversification and a deep connection to the land. Niall is a Chartered Surveyor and Registered Valuer. He graduated in 1997 with a Masters in Land Economy from the University of Aberdeen and is also the Chairman of the Kintyre 66 marketing group. Busy man! Find out more at www.torrisdalecastle.com Blether in the Heather Team: Podcast presenter: Nicky MurphyPodcast producer: Stephen DayPodcast production assistant: Christine CraigEmail: nmurphy@wyvexmedia.co.uk

    4-Passion Bottled

  7. Aug 12

    3-Jail Break

    Step behind the imposing stone walls of one of Scotland's most fascinating visitor attractions and uncover the gripping stories of crime, punishment and justice. In this episode of Blether in the Heather, Nicky Murphy meets warder Shane Smalley inside the courtroom at Inveraray Jail to explore the remarkable history behind this award-winning attraction, hear about The Escape Room and how they bring it all to life through immersive experiences, costumed characters and captivating storytelling. From notorious prisoners and daring escapes to life inside a 19th-century prison, discover why Inveraray Jail has become a must-visit destination for history lovers, families and anyone curious about Argyll's intriguing past. With thanks to our sponsor Wild About Argyll  SHOWNOTES:Shane Smalley is the rather intimidating prison warder at Inveraray Jail. Actually he’s not intimidating at all - he’s loads of fun as you may have seen from his popular social media reels. Shane is one of the personalities behind Inveraray Jail and Escape Room, bringing plenty of humour, enthusiasm and character to one of Argyll’s best-known visitor attractions. He has a real passion for making history entertaining and accessible, sharing the stories of the people who once passed through the Jail while giving visitors an experience that is anything but a traditional museum visit.Find out more at www.inverarayjail.co.uk Blether in the Heather Team: Podcast presenter: Nicky MurphyPodcast producer: Stephen DayPodcast production assistant: Christine CraigEmail: nmurphy@wyvexmedia.co.uk  @inverarayjail @inveraray @inspireinveraray @wildaboutargyll #wildaboutargyll #visitscotland #escaperoom #inveraray #visitorattraction #argyllvisitorattraction #escaperoom #thingstodoargyll #exploreinveraray #scottishistory #argyllandbute

    3-Jail Break

  8. Aug 5

    2 - Island Spirit

    Bute Yard is the brainchild of the late, great Marquess of Bute, Johnny Dumfries. This purpose-built venue is one of Scotland's most exciting community-led regeneration projects – and is transforming the heart of Rothesay. In this episode of Blether in the Heather, Nicky Murphy meets Distillery and Events manager Iona Buick and discovers how vision, creativity and local collaboration have breathed new life into this vibrant destination. Home to Bute Distillery and Bute Brew with creative spaces and a packed programme of events, Bute Yard has become a place where locals and visitors come together to eat, drink, relax and connect. Discover the inspiring story behind a project helping to shape the future of the Isle of Bute. @buteyard @visitbute @butedistillery @butegin @butebrewco @wildaboutargyll#buteyard #visitbute #rothesay #butedistillery #butegin #wildaboutargyll #visitscotland #scottishproduce #scottishgin #scottishbrewery #islandescape #isleofbute #calmac SHOWNOTES:Iona Buick is the Distillery and Events Manager at the Isle of Bute Distillery and one of the key driving forces behind the success of Bute Yard and its award-winning spirits, beers and lagers. After moving to the Isle of Bute during Covid, Iona has lead the distillery’s innovative approach to product excellence while welcoming visitors from around the world to discover the flavours, stories and spirit of the island at Bute Yard. Find out more at www.buteyard.com Blether in the Heather Team: Podcast presenter: Nicky MurphyPodcast producer: Stephen DayPodcast production assistant: Christine CraigEmail: nmurphy@wyvexmedia.co.uk

    2 - Island Spirit

  9. Aug 5

    1 - Clipper Adventures

    The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is one of the greatest endurance challenges on the planet, taking amateur and previous ‘never stepped foot on a boat before’ sailors on an extraordinary circumnavigation of the globe. In this episode of Blether in the Heather, Nicky Murphy goes behind the scenes to chat with Lauren Groves to discover what made this remarkable life-event so unique and why Oban was such an unforgettable stopover for the fleet of ten Clippers. Hear Lauren’s stories of adventure, teamwork and resilience, while exploring the excitement the race brings. Whether you're passionate about sailing, a complete novice or simply love extraordinary human stories, this episode will leave you inspired – perhaps enough to sign up as a crew member for the 2027 Clipper Race yourself! @ClipperRoundTheWorldYachtRace @clipperrace @tongyeong @loveoban @wildaboutargyll @visitscotland #clipperrace #loveoban #wildaboutargyll #oceanadventures #sailinglife #oban #atlanticcrossing SHOWNOTES: Lauren Groves turned 40 and celebrated by swapping everyday life as a Geography Teacher for one of the world’s greatest sailing challenges when she joined Team Tongyeong for the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. Taking on the first and last leg of this extraordinary ocean adventure, Lauren embraced life at sea, pushing herself beyond her comfort zone and discovering the resilience, teamwork and determination needed to thrive in one of the toughest endurance events on the planet. If you are interested in learning more about joining the Clipper Round The World Yacht Race in 2027 or beyond, go to Become An Ocean Racer   Blether in the Heather Team:Podcast presenter: Nicky MurphyPodcast producer: Stephen DayPodcast production assistant: Christine CraigEmail: nmurphy@wyvexmedia.co.uk

    1 - Clipper Adventures

  10. Jul 14

    Welcome to Blether in The Heather

    Welcome to episode "Zero" of Blether in the Heather, the podcast from West Coast Today, sponsored by Wild About Argyll. Join the host Nicky and Producer Steevie as they explain what the podcast is all about. New episodes launching in the last week of July 2026

  • 10 Episodes

About

Meeting the people behind the places that everybody loves to visit across Argyll and the Isles Discover secret gems , exquisite food , great places to visit and the people behind the scenes that make all the magic happen. Fast, friendly and a bit silly sometimes - there are some delicious treats involved, a bit of quizzing but most importantly really good conversation Sponsored by Wild About Argyll https://www.wildaboutargyll.co.uk/

Information

  • Creator
    West Coast Today
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © West Coast Today
  • Show Website
    Blether In The Heather