The Rowan Tree Country Hotel Aviemore

... sightings were in the 1930's by visiting professional man, many didn't believe him until 3 months later their own doctor took the now famous black and white shot of the monster.

We passed the wells of the seven heads, legend has it that the chief of the Macdonal clan died, his sons, twins currently overseas studying, in their absence the elders ruled. They ruled quite ruthlessly and killed the sons on ...

Finally back at home. It's been 15 weeks and 12 countries (14 technically, but a stopover in Sydney and stepping on Zimbabwean soil whilst Bungy jumping don't count). There's been highs and low's throughout, but on the whole, the experience has been fantastic and completely and ...

John

My only recollection of Inverness prior to this visit was a ditty that Garth Glover, an old Ayr basketballer, used to sing .

Four and twenty virgins went up to Inverness
And when the day was over there were four and tewnty less.

The drive to Inverness was also spectacular and included the famous Loch Ness. We did the obligatory Loch Ness cruise but no sign of Nessy.

The highlight for me of Inverness ...

... a quick stop, I realise that someone has left their wild campsite, just off the path, in a real mess.  They've left an empty gas can from a stove and plastic packets everywhere.  Suddenly I turn into a Womble - I can't bear it when people leave litter like this, especially so obviously - and get a spare plastic bag to pick up the worst.  Having tied to my pack, it then bangs about and annoys me the whole way ...

... this year and next year will be tackling the final section to John O'Groats.  Questions come from all directions about the  route I'm  taking and about the final section.  I wish I could tell them that it's a stunning end to their wonderful journey and that it doesn't involve any road walking but sadly I can't!  I can tell them though that there are some lovely little towns and villages en route .

On reaching Drumnadrochit I can see why coming the other way ...

... to be steep and very rough track through a private estate. The views, landscape and wildness were brilliant but I was really worried that I'd damage one of my wheels as the bike was quite loaded with supplies etc. Arrived at the hostel an hour or so later than I had hoped. Distance travelled 109.12 miles, time on bike 8.25 hours. Highlight of the day....a bottle of whisky from the Dalwhinnie distillery from Sue and the children. Andrew

... only for buses and taxis). We eventually made it the hotel and its really nice located on a street with a lot of pubs and FANTASTIC views of the castle. We had a meal and then went to a local pub (which is supposedly haunted) for a beer before coming back to get a good night's sleep. This city is phenomonal, though. Kathy is already trying to talk me into moving here.....and thats only after 2 hours of walking it and seeing only a few city blocks!!!!