Day 2 was a complete contrast weather wise, we had sunshine all the way and a tail wind. Good progress was made to Tain, just a puncture to Nicks supposedly punture proof Armadillo tyres to slow us down. We Stopped in Tain for a Pannini and coffee before setting off agin towards the ferry crossing from Nigg to Cromarty.
This route avoided lots of A9 misery and provided a nice change of pace as we crossed the .8 mile trip from Nigg to Cromarty. We then were able to take some quiet roads across the Black Isle.
About half way across a nature break was called for and we noticed a bike lying in the grass as we stopped. Then a man appeared from the grass too. He was dressed in scruffy baggy tracksuit trousers and very worn and flimsey plimpsoles. He inquired where we were going and when we proudly announced that we were cycling over 100 miles a day down the length of the country he said in a VERY broad accent “Is tha all? Ah do 200 miles a day to work.”
Initially I thought that he was bonkers but he tagged along with us for a few miles and rode like the wind, zooming up the hills, he made us look like old ladies on shoppers. He then showed us a nice little shortcut to Inverness before whizzing on towards Nairn. So if you see a scruffy Scotsman on a bike whose name is Barry do not underestimate him! Thanks Barry.
Inverness
At lunch time we met Dr Steve at the Kessock Bridge in Inverness.
Foyers
The south road along Loch Ness was very quiet and we had beautiful views, particularly when we got to Foyers where we had a quick stop.
South of Foyers
After Foyers, the road continued to climb upwards. Steve warned us that it was going to be very steep, but being a true manager, he managed our expectations very well and it wasn’t too bad! The road did seem to go on forever though…
Nick kept speaking on his mobile. Although it may have been an excuse to take a breather on the climb!
The view on the other side towards Fort Augustus was stunning.
The descent was even better. Sweeping bends and a good surface had us clocking up to 45mph.
Fort Augustus
Fort Augustus is a very attractive town on the Caledonian Canal. There are a series of locks here that connect Loch Ness to the Caledonian Canal.
After an excellent meal at the Lock Inn, it was time to recuperate.
22/06/08
Delighted that the weather was so good on day 2!
Looked awful on the weather map. Here’s hoping for more good cycling
weather with the wind, if any, up your tails.
Thinking of you all three.
Us
Guys I am sooooo jealous, looking at the photo’s brings it back puts a smile on my face!
Enjoy the scenery, and I hope the weather stays good for you.
Best wishes Regie
Keep it going and enjoy. We have just completed the Great Bristol Bike ride, The Avon Gorge Loop. Only 13 miles though. Chicken feed to your lot. Best of luck and well done on passing your test. Night shifts are going to be that much longer. Cheers, Malcolm