A hard day that required three tea shops. The first was an opportune rest at Strathcarron Hotel just as a hail shower came over. The log fire and coffee were perfect. We reminisced the years we used to stay in a cottage near here when Joe was small and how we would get on the train to Plockton, maybe we should have got the train from Stromeferry and saved some considerable hill climbs!
Our second stop was another trip down memory lane, the Kishorn Seafood Cafe. This was a unique place 20 years ago but there are many more good eating places now.
After a windy decent with great views of the Applecross hills we arrived and quickly ordered cullen skink followed by scallops, within minutes the place was packed and we were thankful for getting a table.
Our final stop was at Nanny's Cafe in Shieldaig which marked the end of our major climbing for the day- nearly.
The road out of Kishorn passes a road I remember well. The fantastic hill climb over Bealach na Ba to Applecross. This has now become a famous climb for cyclists and consequently had the Bealach Cafe at the bottom. We have chosen to continue directly to Shieldaig, a road I have not cycled. It was truly stunning and better still the emerging views of the Torridon hills.
Leaving Shieldaig, the sun came out and we enjoyed spectacular views of the Torridon hills as we undulated towards our youth hostel.
The photos can't really capture the light and scenery of today.
Torridon youth hostel has kept well over the years, we elected to have a "heat and eat" meal they offer for £5.95 which was fine, then enjoyed the evening light from the panoramic lounge.
Figures:
Distance:- 56.1 km
Cycle Time:- 4 hours 17 minutes
Average speed:- 13.0 kph
Total Distance:- 2388 km
Max: 64.2kph
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