Leaving Lunga

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 All turn partners RH, all turn corners LH with 1M+3M retaining LH with corners moving towards centre, 1M+2L+3M+4L dance LH across. Finish facing partners in 2 parallel diagonal lines
9-16 All dance parallel reels of 4
17-24 All set, turn partners RH into promenade hold and face clockwise (1s+3s ½ turn, 2s+4s full turn) and promenade ½ way round set
25-32 Ladies dance RH across, pick up partner in promenade hold and promenade clockwise ½(+) way round to form square set again. 4123

(MINICRIB. Dance crib compiled by Charles Upton, Deeside Caledonian Society, and his successors)

Keith Rose's Crib Diagrams

Leaving Lunga - Full Size And Key To Symbols

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In Scotland, it is found in both the Treshnish Isles and the Firth of Lorn, while other places with the same name exist in regions influenced by Norse, Gaelic, or similar linguistic traditions. The name often refers to islands or coastal areas, reflecting its historical connection to seafaring cultures.

Lunga, the largest of the Treshnish Isles in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, is a volcanic island celebrated for its rich biodiversity. Once inhabited until the 19th century, remnants of the former village are still visible in the northeastern part of the island. Today, Lunga is uninhabited and designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, Special Protection Area, and Special Area of Conservation. The island supports significant breeding colonies of seabirds, including puffins, kittiwakes, and razorbills, and is home to various rare plant species. During the summer months, tourist boats frequently visit Lunga, offering visitors the opportunity to observe its abundant wildlife up close.

In contrast, Lunga in the Firth of Lorn is part of the Slate Islands, also located in Argyll and Bute. The island's name derives from Old Norse, meaning 'isle of the longships', though most other local place names are of Gaelic origin. Lunga was never heavily populated and is currently uninhabited. The surrounding waters are known for the 'Grey Dog' tidal race, a strong current reaching speeds of up to 8 knots in the channel to the south. Presently, the island hosts an adventure centre on its northern headland, Rubha Fiola, and the nearby seas are utilised for prawn and scallop fishing, as well as salmon farming.

Puffins on Lunga

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