Split Journeys Biking and Souvenirs

Part I

(Where a Souvenir focused group makes a return drive to Drumnadrochit to ensure that no souvenir was left behind)

Sanju had been lamenting the fact that we missed the opportunity to buy loch ness related souvenirs at Drumnadrochit, so Suba planned a return drive, on this, our open day, back to the stores there.

Part II

(Where Sid enjoys a solo bike ride exploring the surroundings of Glen Coe)

In researching this trip, I had come across the network of bicycle routes around the UK. I had gotten excited about the idea of spending a day on a bike, with Aarav, Tejas and any others that shared my excitement to explore the area by self propelled means. Facing the prospect of 4 more hours in a car, returning to a place I had already been, I tried to resurrect my bicycling plans, but trying to accommodate the lack of transportation. I ended up finding CrankitupGear in nearby glencoe, which offered a couple different options for bicycle adventure. Either a loop around nearby loch leven, an out-and back ride to see Loch Linnhe, crossing past ballachulish, or a ride toward Altnafeadh, past some of the sights that we didn’t have the patience to stop by on our first day into Ballachulish. I was particularly excited by the last option, since I had really wanted to spend more time in the middle of the mountains, and small lakes that we had seen on our drive in.

CrankitupGear only had mountain bikes, and even though Aarav was enthusiastic about riding a bike and exploring, the prospect of biking on roads with traffic deterred him. In hindsight, this was likely a good choice, because the ride, at times, was surprisingly challenging, either via elevation gain, or technical elements, and would have challenged Aarav’s skills and abilities.

I set off on bike, crossing the river Coe, and followed single track bike/hike trails paralleling Gleann Comhann towards Loch Achtriochtan as my first destination. I passed beautiful and peaceful river side camp sites, a pair of youth hostels, and Clachaig inn, which would be my lunch spot although it was too early for lunch yet. Scenic views of the mountains, and waterfalls along the river Coe was enjoyed along with a stop at the Loch, with iconic views of a forest rescue cabin.

The lady that rented me the bicycle mentioned that there was a narrow farmers path along A87 that I could take, if I wanted to explore further down the valley. I chose to do so, and bike for another mile or so, on extremely narrow and overgrown paths, crossing the occasional stream attempting to rejoin with the nearby lake. The views were amazing, the sheep abundant, and I truly enjoyed the ride, ultimately turning around because hunger was beckoning.

I stopped at Clachaig inn, to enjoy a surprisingly delicious burger, with a pint of a local IPA, and a spectacular view of the mountains.