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| The anchorage in Loch Eatharna |
It’s a good idea to get a bit of exercise on a cruise, rather than just sit about on the boat all day, so we decided to hire bikes and cycle round the island. The Post Office hired us one bike for £10 and another for nothing as it was so clapped out. We set off equipped with sandwiches, drink, map (sort of) etc. However after a few yards a pedal fell off the “good” bike and we took it back. They did not seem to have spares and no part from their stock of dead bikes fitted, so we got our money back and set off on foot instead.
Only problem was that we did the same route that was planned for the bikes. Some bits were quite interesting, such as stopping to buy veg and cake at a house and having our sandwiches. Many bits were long and boring. Although it was fine and sunny the wind was a bit cold for swimming, and it was also low tide. Found Grass of Parnassus (it’s a flower), heard 1 corncrake (the other 119 kept quiet), visited the top of Ben Hogh, fortunately only 104m, with its strange boulder balanced on 3 stones.
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| Loch Breachacha – a quiet beach complete with cows and sheep |
After 22+ km on the road we were given a lift the last short distance by an elderly couple. He is a lay preacher who is one of several who takes turns to run the church, which cannot afford a full-time minister. The little cafe has sensible opening hours (unlike nearly all seaside tea shops which close at 4:30) so we could have tea and scones on our return. This improved my mood somewhat. Buying Camping Gaz at the hotel completed my recovery as the price was £20.75 (compared with £23 at the last place which was not even on an island).
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| Strange boulder near the top of Ben Hogh |
We still have a reasonable forecast, so hope to head for Muck tomorrow. This will of course be another beat as the wind remains from the N.
Follow the
track of our walk on Google Maps.
