At present I am unable to upload any photos. I will try again later, but I apologise if there are no photos today. They were mainly even more scenes of the Loch anyway - you have probably seen plenty already.
Today started off very well, again with bright sunny weather, and I was given my wish for a slightly lower temperature. This was assisted by me walking along the east bank of the Loch which meant that the sun was hidden behind the hills for all of the morning. I reached Inversnaid by 11.45 in time for an early lunch, feeling good and having made good progress on smooth paths.
This enjoyment was soon to disappear as most of the path after lunch - from Inversnaid to Inverarnan, was appalling. The path often consisted of rocks, boulders and tree roots and often required more clambering than walking. I do not know how I would have managed it had the path been wet. The host at tonight's B&B confirmed that he has heard many tales of woe from this part of the WHW, as people do not appreciate the difficulty of the path before setting off. He does however promise me that the path is a lot better from now on.
The nature of today's walk also made it difficult to fully appreciate the fabulous scenery. Firstly the path was often through trees with the Loch barely visible. Secondly The poor state of the path meant that I had to walk with my eyes down on the path to avoid tripping over rocks etc. Luckily I managed to avoid any damage although I did stumble several times.
Because of the nature of the WHW, being off road to a large extent, it makes it difficult to divide into stages. Jean has come up with a plan which involves having 2 half days rather than a full rest day. Tomorrow I am therefore walking only 7 miles from Inverarnan to Crianlarich (where we are staying for 2 nights) with the afternoon being free for sightseeing.
Still no sign of the dreaded midges. I have been told today that they are not too prevalent at present because of the dry, hot and windy weather in recent weeks. I will keep you updated.
The highlight of today was seeing a pine marten. It was on the path only about 10 yards ahead of me having just caught something to eat. Jean also had a wildlife experience when she saw an osprey whilst driving.
KBW's today for Des and Margaret, and Graham for services to communications.
" Perhaps the truth depends on a walk around the lake" - Wallace Stevens (or should it be loch?)
Cheers
Keith
Saturday, 19 June 2010
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