You may be wondering how the feet are after our 31 km walk. Believe me, you’ll be the first to know when either of us can feel them again.
This morning started in the rain. It was pretty gentle but we headed out in full gear all the same. First stop was breakfast 500 meters down the road.
500 more meters along and we were on the first of three decent climbs today. It was the easiest of the day and included views of all the snow capped hills.
On the way back down we crossed the bridge of Orchy, build about 275 years ago by the British army.
From there we started another ascent as the trail turned further away from civilization than anywhere else along the route. It was a tough stretch over loose and large rocks and then cobblestone on a military road. Once at the top though the views were unbelievable – a vast, barren and empty valley. I’d almost call it bleak, except it is beautiful. The photos don’t come close to capturing the majesty.
We stopped and sat in the bog for lunch. By this time it was sunny and warm. Which was good since my bum got pretty wet. Scratch that smart comment from above.
Last hill was pretty gentle but we were struggling by this time, legs and feet were ready to be done a solid 7 km or so before the final destination. The saving grace, such that there was one, is that after cresting the last hill the views were fantastic.
Tonight we’re are in a pretty beautiful (and bougie) hotel. Since we had someone book all the accommodation for us we don’t know what any of these places cost. And that’s a good thing tonight! Had a great and not particularly Scottish meal.
Then a gorgeous sunset.
Tomorrow is a short 15 km, which is 14.95 km more than these feet feel like moving.
The photos are stunning. I can only imagine seeing it in person. The sky is so blue, the mountains majestic. The meals don’t look like enough food – surprised you didn’t order 2 meals!! Rest those weary feet, don’t think I need to tell you to sleep well (I have not doubt you will) and have a great day tomorrow. You’re almost there. Love ya, Ma
Sleep is coming more easily than usual (which is pretty easy for me in the first place)
Great photos! Riding a bike is going to be so nice on your feet after this 😄.
It’s going to feel very relaxing by comparison
Is that jelly on the rightmost sausage-egg bun?
Gorgeous views!
You missed a day of sun, cold, rain, snow, and 75 kph wind gusts in T.O.
Beetroot spread. It was a little sweet for my liking, but a nice change from brown (HP) sauce
I like a bit of English Tomato Jam. Has to have a bit of brown spice flavour.
Beautiful photos today! Chad, are you wearing your sneakers?
I agree with your Mom. I’m surprised you didn’t have 2 dinners. Did you bring hot sauce?
My shoes are barefoot trail runners. I’m getting a lot of comments from other walkers on them and I’m not sure why. I guess the standard is hiking boots, which I don’t love.
Hey you guys did alright on your longest day! Almost like you were prepping for a climb up Ben Nevis (where I hear there’s a popup chippy at the summit – large fish & chips for 5 pounds – it’s right next to the popup french cafe)
I think (hope?) that plan is fading 😉
I can’t get over the scenery! I’m curious if you both have built in a little slack with the 4 day planning, or overall with the timing of the walk and your bike adventure? Are you trying to test yourself for endurance? Maybe it’s just me but I’d see a 5 or 6 day walk being a bit easier on the muscles, bones and calloses. How’s life going for vegetarian and vegan fare?
Still envious….
We are doing the walk in 7 days and it’s pretty carved in stone since all the accommodations are prebooked. People do it anywhere between 24 hour runs (!!!!) and up to 10 or more days. I think 6 or 7 is quite reasonable for someone fairly fit. 8 days would eliminate one very long day, but I’m glad we did that. As for the bike ride, I think I have enough time but if I end up on some crazy rocky mountain paths like we’ve walked on (likely, I think!) I have many shortcuts to ensure I get back to Glasgow for my flight home.
Ahhhh, okay, then! It’s clear to me that neither my mind nor my feet can keep up with yours. I know you at least well enough that I really am not surprised by your planfulness and It’s great to hear that you can use “choose your adventure” options on your bicycle tour.
You look so happy!
I’ll try to keep up with you….
Very enjoyable reading along with you two. And the photos are great. Enjoy day 6 and the end of part 1 of your excellent adventure. Love you both, Dad