We stuck with the A9 for 34 miles until Helmsdale (where we stopped for morning coffee), cycling along the coastline with more moody sea views; the East Coast of Scotland was putting on a great show for us and there was very little traffic on the road. Even the Aussies would not scoff at the surf on this coast, we think.
Sarah insisted on a quick visit to Dunrobin castle (burned down in the 15 Century but rebuilt in 18th). Sadly our photos did not do justice to it so we have to return. Here is the driveway just to whet the appetite
We were on the lookout for otters as various signs warned us of them, but a local later told us that they only ever see them as road kill. We were also told to look out for rutting deer but alas just caught one glimpse of one solitary doe.
We stopped a few times for photo opportunities (jo in her jockey gear)
before heading up the A897 to Melvich (a single lane road with passing places) for 40 miles.
This road is fantastic for cyclists as there were not too many cars so we rode 2 or 3 abreast :)
The color of the hillside and the bracken are just magnificent at this time of year
Lunch stop was in another windswept place; we often have to put on several different layers; today this included waterproofs and our Pixie hats (seen here with Colin and Don - riding partners for the day) which are super-warm!
It was sad to get back to normal 2 lane traffic with lorries for the last 17 miles to reach our final destination for the day Thurso. Not far to John O'Groats now..
One last flying pit stop for nibbles with Discover Adventure rep Lahcen (this stop was full of midgies so we did not linger long)
Today's stats:
6 hours 12 minutes in the saddle, 88.2 miles. Total ascent 1032 metres. Average speed 14.2 miles per hour. 1598 calories.
Possibly the most enjoyable day of cycling on LeJog.
We are now both feeling very tired and fed up of energy bars, so we had chocolate buttons with our post ride milkshakes instead.
Wow. Great photos.................... thanks for the ride.
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