11 Sep 07 Glencoe to Faslane

Tuesday 11 Sep 07 – The route out of Glencoe had looked pretty daunting on the upward journey to JoG, with a 7 mile long upward hill climb across Black Mount to contend with immediately after hitting the road. After a humid and restless night (accompanied by a plethora of bodily noises and Midgies!) we rose early in apprehension of the next leg. Delia laid on another excellent breakfast, though maybe the beans could be cut back a little to avoid another night like that one!

The weather was miserable, the spectacular views marred with low cloud, mist and drizzle. By 8:15 we were “prepped” and on the road, but within the first 15 – 20 minutes we realised that our concerns had been unfounded. It was indeed a long hill, but the incline was nothing like it had appeared to be coming the other way. Once over the crest of the Black Mount the team took a breather and some refreshment. It was also decided that because of the inclement weather (it was significantly colder at the top), we would stop at more regular intervals and have a cup of tea accompanied of course by Midgies.

For several more miles the road was pretty even, with no major obstacles. On the way down the other side, about 4 miles out of Bridge of Orchy, there is a lay-by with a burger van etc. Standing next to the van, without having any apparent fear of humans was a Stag! Obviously the animal is used to being fed and has become fairly tame. Wonder if it likes beans?

We continued along the A82, and after passing through Tyndrum the team decided on another brew at Crianlarich. We were making good ground, and decided to keep the pace up. Another quick stop at the Drovers pub, soft drinks for all but the hard core (who shall remain nameless!), and it was onto Arrochar. The plan had been for the team to change into the rig for the final run into Faslane, but the weather was closing in even more than before, with persistent rain, so it was decided to plod on and change just outside Faslane.

The final approaches to the Naval Base were difficult, with a very unpleasant hill just when it wasn’t needed, but we arrived just before 4 O’clock, and after a quick session with the phot section we dispersed for a well-deserved hot bath, dhobying, and a single room with no “noise pollution”! We even got the chance for Ade (the food monster) to be mistaken for Matthew Pinsent or was that Mathew Kelly?!!

Tomorrow will be used to travel across Glasgow and test the theory that the people down here are more generous than those at Fort William. Another Youth Hostel awaits and here’s hoping they have not got an age limit!!