August 29th - September 3rd
Six days of mountain biking spread out across Scotland and with two good mates to share the fun. Weather was varied but the bad stuff didn't last too long.
Monday - Did the big Torridon Circuit. From Loch Claire head south over Coulin Pass, Drochaid Coire Lair and down to Achnashellach Sation, then back from Coulags over Bealach na Lice and into Annat. Some of this is where the Steve Peat Solo vid was fimed. 38 kms in 7.5 hours. Fantastic loop with real exposure, bare rock to ride, and astounding sceneary (but some hike-a-bike as well). Just magical.
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| Mike & the spooky tree |
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| Steve Peat's bothy |
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| Completed back at Annat looking across at Ben Alligan |
Wednesday - The black loop at the Highland Wildcat trails (Golspie, east coast) which takes you up to the Duke of Sutherland monument overlooking the north sea. Things like the Lactic Ladder climb and the swoopy Lawson's Run have long been favourites of mine.
Thursday - Glen Feshie western loop. So from the glen head carpark, going south along the river's east bank to Carnachuin, then ford the river and head up the big fire road climb to be able to loop north and east on sweet forest single track to the metal river bridge and back to the car park. Just 16.5 kms but good exercise with no pushing-up. The damage caused during last year's floods is still very visible with 2 sections of trail completely washed away and the original bridge was washed away in 2009. Were welcomed back to the van by a midge fest.
Friday - The "Glen Feshie Challenge" loop up. This goes up two munros... So from the glen head carpark – Carnachuin – then head east up Mullach Clach a Bhlair across to Moine Mhor and then Carn Ban Mor. Finally its pay-bacvk time and the path down to Auchlean is very fast, stoney, man-made in places but a real hoot. The day was 23 kms of which quite a few are stiff uphill granny ring or just a protracted push.
Saturday - Still with Mike & Lynn but today was just a simple tour above Deeside. Did Ballfour woods and up Carnferg, then across to Baudy Meg and the long cruise back through Glen Tanar.
Maybe more photos to follow.....
