The Grounds
The estate comprises
approximately 18 acres of grounds, along with the lake itself.
A good proportion of the land is mature, deciduous woodland, and the
remainder is unfarmed meadow and recently planted woodland.
Leam Beg's
greatest appeal is its seclusion and privacy. The lake is tucked away
in a sheltered valley, and the nearest road (a minor B road) is 800 metres
away. Many visitors comment on the complete absence of
background noise. There is no public access to the lake, and no public
vantage point from which the lake or chalets can be viewed, so total privacy
is ensured.
There are
beautiful views in all directions, and the area is rich in both flora and
fauna. (A recent wildlife study noted 45 different species of
birds on the site.) Otters, badgers and hares are regularly spotted,
and a diverse flora of deciduous trees and wild flowers thrives on the site.
The meadows have remained unfarmed for six years to encourage this
diversity.
The site is also of interest
archaeologically. An ancient settlement is evident at the northern end of
the lake, with the remains of lake shore dwellings and a crannog.
Chalet development is
restricted to a clearly defined area in order to preserve as much of the
natural environment as possible (see map below), and a newly-surfaced lane provides easy access to
both the chalets and the lake shore.
The Lake