The trip from Glasgow was really scenic, going down the Firth on the opposite side to the train I had taken from Wemyss Bay to Glasgow. The train wasn't too packed and I had very friendly neighbours.
At Crianlarich the train split. Oban one way and Mallaig the other. Around me only hills and mountains. We're literally in the middle of nowhere!
On arrival, I was treated to perfect weather. Lots of blue sky but also wonderful clouds which give so much atmosphere to the place. The longest river in Scotland, River Fillan flows through Crianlarich.
What a magnificent place it is, surrounded by fabulous peaks, still water with perfect reflections and such tranquillity. Not a midge in sight either!
I couldn't go far along the track as it was really muddy and I hadn't gone prepared for that. However, just to stare and enjoy the time there was all I needed.
Golden fields contrast magnificently with the forest, hills and sky.
I decided to do a shortish mountain loop above Crianlarich. I didn't have poles with me, so occasionally the rocky bits were a little precarious. The views were breathtaking and the heather so pretty . It only flowers about two months, mid August onwards , so I am really lucky to see it purple. For 10 months of the year it's brown.
When there is no heather, the slopes are brightened up with the colours of the rowan trees, with their bright red berries. They're gorgeous.
I decided to do a part of the 154 km West Highland Way from Bridge of Orchy to Tyngum. It's the easiest part of the route, with gently undulating track of 16.5 kms, which was certainly long enough for me! It was also a challenge for me to be walking totally alone for long stretches without seeing anyone and knowing I was a long way from anywhere! However, it was a magical experience being alone in this awesome place.
The view from the start was simply stunning, with the ominous black clouds threatening, but never shedding their load.
Half way along, I felt as if I was in another world. So much time to stop and appreciate everything around me, and to reflect on this marvellous trip I have been doing over the past 5 months. I felt elated and so privileged to be able to do this.
I did have a couple of moments of mixed emotions as I saw my first Highland cow, actually a huge Highland Bull! I couldn't see a fence Infront of him, and with only a bank and shallow river between us, I didn't hang around or risk a close up photo .Nobody else was around and he seemed focused on me!
There were little waterfalls everywhere, but this the only substantial one.
From here I could look back to the hills I had left in the distance.
I was a bit worried about the rain, so sped up a little,but only as I got home did the rain start.
What an adventure this had been for me. I truly understand now why David finished his Tour du Mont Blanc on such a high. My effort was nothing in comparison, but still I felt super proud of myself.
Nearly at Tyngum I started to feel a bit weary. Unfortunately, as in the morning, the bus never showed up and I actually hitch hiked in both directions. I was lucky to be picked up by very pleasant people, surprised to have a senior hitchhiker in their car.
This is the piece of the walk I covered today! Phenomenal experience.
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