Went West

The weather near Kingussie was somewhat overcast and drizzly. As my wife did not know the road to Spean Bridge via Loch Lagan we decided to head out that way.

It was the right decision. By Laggan, the sun was breaking through and the views were spectacular. It took us a while as we kept stopping for photos when we could. The roads had busy spells but most of the time they were pretty empty and it was a joy to bowl along on well metalled roads. None of your Edinburgh potholes here.

We went to the Commando monument at Spean Bridge where, from the memorial in small directions you overlook the mountain ranges and the towering presence of Ben Nevis and Aonach Mòr and the terrain where the commandos trained.

A coffee at the station cafe then on to Corpach to see the rusting boat with the backdrop of Ben Nevis. It has become a “classic” shot. There were several photographers milling around. One stood very patiently waiting for dog walkers and others (walkers and photographers) to get out of shot. They never quite did. She was still there when I left. I moved around but she was clearly waiting for the view she wished.

Back the route we had come, seeing things from a different angle. The closer we got to our base the greyer it became. We had had the best of the day. So many things to see including a first for me - a Tesco train. They may be well known but it was the first I have seen. The end of the Caledonian canal. A Victorian gate lodge. The sands of Loch Laggan (very exposed with the low water levels). Scots pine rising straight up the banks clinging on to the soil. An old ornate stone porch on a cottage.But most of all, the scenery.

A BBQ meal tonight and a spell under the stars in a hot tub. I think I am beginning to relax!