The day in numbers
- 58 miles
- 3hr 59min in saddle
- 14.5 mph average speed
- 34.8 mph maximum speed
- 1,329 feet of climbing
- 3,565 calories burned
The weather forecast for today didn’t sound very promising – showers, and lots of them. And sure enough, the sky was heavy and overcast when I set off.
For the first hour the rain held off, then it tipped it down. Now I’d prepared for this eventuality and invested in some waterproof socks, as cold wet feet are a sure-fire way of making a day miserable. The socks have a waterproof layer to stop the water rising up through your shoes. Unfortunately, I didn’t spot the flaw in their design, which is when water seeps down the top of the cuff and pools around your foot. By the time the rain let up I felt like I was wearing a pair of wellies full of water.
Sopping wet, I met up with Joan for some soup and warmth at Tain. Knowing I was out of wet weather gear for tomorrow, Joan set off to find a launderette for the final wash of the tour (bless, she knows how to have fun!).
Miraculously, that was the worst of the rain over. Nothing but spits and spots for the rest of the journey. And very enjoyable it was too – relatively fast paced, as there weren’t any serious hills to overcome. Also relatively short, so arrived at the hotel well before Joan feeling as if I could have done another ten or so miles (easy to think that when I’m soaking in the bath).
Looking forward to seeing my work colleague Mahesh tonight. He was up in Scotland for a wedding and rashly said he’d join us at the hotel for dinner before my final day. I don’t think he realized just how far he had to travel to keep that promise!
Joan’s bit
As I drove out of Dingwall this morning I was quite worried when I saw a very long narrow bridge, but thankfully didn’t have to cross it.
I met up with Stephen in Tain for my daily cheese and onion toastie and latte, then went back to Invergordon, as the launderette next to the coffee shop in Tain said my one wash would take 2 days !!. This was a blessing in disguise, as Kath & Monica in the Invergordon laundry couldn’t have been more friendly and helpful. They made me a lovely cup of tea (in a china cup), and even donated £20 to our charity fund.
Invergordon is a lovely little town, with a pretty church and many beautiful wall murals. There was a very striking cruise ship visiting too.
After my earlier relief over the bridge I found I had to drive over Dornoch Bridge on the way to Helmsdale, (you may have guessed I don’t like heights). I then drove around Loch Fleet, which reminded me of home.
We’re now both at the hotel for the last 2 nights of our trip and thankfully it’s very nice, large room, comfy bed and big bathroom.
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- Leaving the hotel
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- Ship in the Moray Firth
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- House on Fire !!
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- Lifeboat
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- King Street
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- Highland Games
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- Cruise ship
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- Dornoch Bridge
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- Loch Fleet
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- Nearing Helmsdale
