Bog Trot

It turns out the milk float is a pretty good safari vehicle, maybe not at off roading but this deer gave us a roadside wave as we headed to the start of our walk this morning. She barely cared, eventually wandering off.

Before the walk, I left Rich in bed with a New Year cup of tea and Little Dog, and was out at dawn watching the seals and enjoying the reflections of Lagavulin distillery from the shores of the loch. I was hoping to spot the otter at closer range but my safari outfit wasn't up to it... Maybe I need a fresh top! 

There were huge skeins of geese going out for the day with their wings catching the sunlight.  I walked around by the castle and headed back to find Rich ready to roll.

Our walk for the day started at Ardtalla and headed along an infrequently visible track which was, on occasion, dry. It was an epic 4.5mile bog trot which, with only 100m of ascent, was an impressive classification to achieve.  

Luckily, for enjoyment en route, we met deer and stags, and quite close too as we were downwind of them. It was a there and back linear walk and our destination was the Proaig bothy which had about 400m of firm under foot (mostly) shoreline to enjoy. 

The weather was stunning, the destination seriously picturesque. It's definitely not a rubbish weather walk or there would be little to take from the day. The backdrop of hills (quaintly described as whisky coloured) with blue sky and fluffy clouds was gorgeous as were the views across to Jura. Was it worth it, yes. Would we hurry back? I doubt it!

We went home for a late lunch and coffee. That was nearly the best bit. After recovering from my Christmas bug, I've had a couple of days of huge heartburn, eating but not really fancying anything. And today I hankered after coffee. The last thing I've wanted recently. Whoopee!

We were both feeling a little jaded after hauling our sodden feet through boggy ground but still keen to make the most of the stunning day. 

So, with caffeine installed, next stop Machir Bay for sunset. 

There were clouds on the horizon so the whole sky wasn't lit up but the beach was amazing...

Quiet as everyone was leaving. Incredible surf being spun back in the wind. Beautiful reflections on the wet shoreline. A wreck buried in the sand. And wonderful sand formations being blown at top speed at ankle height.  It was cold, windy and exhilarating. 

We stayed for about an hour walking on the (firm under foot (what a joy!)) sand and throwing the ball for Little Dog.

It was then a drive home, stopping for supplies and coverage to find out how Rich's mum was as she's broken her wrist falling on black ice (she confessed yesterday, a few days late, by text). Turns out it needed an op which she's had done today with plenty of family around. 

Dawn. Dusk. Bog. Beaches. 

All in blue sky. What a treat! 

We can't quite believe it's only day 4. 
Happy New Year!