Day 9 was a tough one. 153km in the rain. We started with drizzle which quickly got heavier and a 14km climb over the pass to Loch Awe. We hit cloud cover at the top which is more a sign of how low the cloud is rather than how high we were. I worked up a sweat on the climb and then got cold on the way down. My phone got wet (again) and has packed up (someone tell Kev Rourke to order me a swap out for Tuesday - I've got it on a lampshade trying to dry it out).
A largely uneventful day through lovely countryside that we couldn't see because of the rain and cloud. We bypassed Oban crossing a lovely bridge over raging waters at up the coast to Fort William. Ben Nevis was shrouded in cloud but the sun did break through as we passed and the Nevis range revealed itself. Truly awe inspiring. We climbed over the pass to Loch Lochy and our B&B for the night, Forest Lodge, between Loch Lochy and Loch Ness.
I took the opportunity to clean my bike, Robert the owner chatted away whilst I sank a beer and ran baby wipes over every surface. He's a farmer from Cumbria and I think he thought my behaviour odd until I started spraying degreaser everywhere. He pointed out the mountain top behind us which looks like an up turned face. I took a photo but can't get it on this PC. He then hasted me inside before the midges descend!
Beth and Imogen stayed in the pool at Loch Fyne for a while and then called in at the seal sanctuary on the way. Tomorrow is a shorter day ~137km with one big climb, then two short days to finish. Beth's going to try and find a pony trek for Mo. She's been so well behaved, bless her.
The massage worked wonders I felt fresh today, no soreness, no stiffness, and I feel fine now. Looking forward to my dinner then another early night unless I can find the England match on the local TV.
If you've never been to the highlands then make the effort, it is truly beautiful. 3 days, 204 miles to go, wish me luck!
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