63 miles ridden – 1900 feet climbed – temperature 13C

The TV news this morning was full of today being the hottest day of the year in the South East which was a bit cruel really – that is not what we have seen today up here.

At best it was cloudy and a bit breezy and at worst – certainly the last 20 miles – it was raining with a stiff headwind while we climbed. Fantastic! Still everyone was in pretty good cheer at our lunch stop probably due to the hot soup and lemon drizzle cake. Peak Tours know how to look after us.

The route out of Inverness was the least appealing section of the day.

The scenery on the edge of the city is great but cycling over the bridge certainly didn’t sit well with my dislike of heights. Once over the bridge we followed the shoreline of Beauly Firth which was pretty stunning even in the overcast, misty drizzle. First tea stop was among the trees at Rogie Falls where we were able to enjoy 20 minutes of dry almost sunny warmth.

We were feeling quite optimistic for the afternoon as we approached our lunch stop at Ledgowan Lodge in Achnasheen. It almost looked bright but it was stunning nonetheless.

As we all togged up for the afternoon the layers started coming on. We could see the rain clouds rolling towards us.

Funnily enough I didn’t take any pictures of the drenching spray. Fortunately it wasn’t cold because the rain got everywhere. I had hoped my overshoes would help but it was too much for them to cope with. My feet are still cold now.

Thanks to all the considerate drivers on the A896 who gave us plenty of space in the driving rain. Not of course the new white VW Golf that passed too close and caused and entire pothole of water to fly all over me. I recall cursing a little……

Anyway we made it to Lochcarron and in anticipation of another rain shower I headed straight for my B&B at The Old Manse.

I beat the shower and then the sun came out:

Although the weather is expected to improve over the week, tomorrow looks pretty poor – persistent rain and strong winds – so we may not be able to climb Bealach Na Ba. Watch this space!