Synopsis Scotland

Day one John O'Groats to Bonar Bridge

After a near disaster when a spindle was lost we eventually set off towards Betty Hill. For the uninitiated (us included) the north of Scotland coast includes many climbs and descents this takes a lot out of your legs. We stopped at the Marie Curie field of hope to take photos of a nuclear power station in the background. There is some irony in there somewhere. From Betty Hill we turned south climbing 3o miles to 1200 ft with the majority of the climb in the last three miles. Pete got his climbing legs back as the rest tagged along. Rex was so relaxed he had time to take in the scenery including a waterfall. So much for insufficient training.

Day 2 Bonar Bridge to Fort William

What a day! Great weather spectacular scenery and midges. No one saw Nessie as we passed Loch Ness but we had a good look. We continued along the great glen until we dropped down into Fort William.

Day 3 Fort William to Renfrew

Two good weather days in a row in Scotland. This is unheard of. A 20 mile flat section around the base of Ben Nevis before Glencoe and then a 1200 foot climb to the Glencoe pass. Strava predicted 5000 ft of climbing but this turned into 6800 ft. The scenery was awe inspiring in view of the weather. We then dropped down to Loch Lomond and followed rather dull route comparatively into Dumbarton. We then crossed the Erskine bridge finishing at 5.30 ahead of schedule

Day 4 Renfrew to Carlisle

A mixed big as far as the weather was concerned. A little light rain, some
Sun but plenty of head wind. It took nearly two hours to get out of Glasgow particularly as Rex seems to be a red traffic Light magnet. Nice cup of tea at Crawford and quick ride into Gretna before crossing the border. Then down to Carlisle and our destination.