28/5 - Brodick to Oban
We again had a deadline. We aimed to catch the 1045 ferry from Lochranza to Claonaig so once again we had to ask for an early brakfast. Strange - no talk of backsides. Could be we were all tired from the long day yesterday.
At 8.38 we said Bye Bye to Brodick and we were on our way to Oban.
The weather was sunny but fresh and the ride to Lochranza via Corrie and Sannax was extremely pleasant with the stunning views and wildlife - both deer and seals were spotted taking advantage of the morning sun.
We covered the 14 miles in time despite the long climb and met numerous other cyclists at the tiny ferry terminal. Most of them were island hopping to Jura for a fell running event. Some guys we were chatting to from Bolton & Chorley ( one of our previous stops) donated £30 - Many Thanks Guys.
Legs were stiff after the short ferry ride especially climbing out of the small ferry port of Claonaig.
With the weather being changable we were putting on / taking off waterproofs, arm and leg warmers so today's ride was stop/go and no rythum could be maintained which made today seem very hard. Perhaps it was the number of days on the road catching up with us!
Since we left Dumfries OWO has been informing me we are now in God's country which apparently was not made late on Saturday evening. I agreed probably earlier in the day! - Only joking OWO. The scenery is the best on our jolly jaunt.
Unable to find a suitable bus shelter we took advantage of an alfesco lunch by the harbourside at Tarbert.
The going after lunch was slow and the miles seemed to drag. Aching legs plus stop/starting for change of clothing.
On the way to Oban we received one of our most memorable experiences so far. Whilst the CFE/TVR train was moving along nicely a contractor's van was behind, unable to over take on the narrow lanes. As it pulled level with CFE the window wound down and we expected a volley of abuse but to our utter amazement CFE was handed £5 donation. Well we almost fell of our bikes.
We met some other riders riding to John O'Groats, supported over 11 days and we seem to be riding faster!
We found a country store and stopped for a coffee and sustenance and sat in the sun outside. After 10-15 minutes the lady store owner appeared with CFE's and my helmuts. Tiredness must be setting in.
We set off again with Oban 31 miles away and when we were within 9 miles we found a sheltered place and waited for OWO and waited and waited. Surely he can't be lost again there is only one road. He turned up 30 minutes later after we had attemped to phone him.
We srrived in Oban after 8 hours 32 mins and 5 hours 42 mins rivet polishing. 74.9 more miles covered but only 1184 metres of climbing.
After showering we hit town, well limped in more like and had a meal in the harbour watching the passenger steam ferry arrive. Again it amazed this Southern Softie how light it was at 10pm
One other luxury to report. The guy at the B&B washed and dried our clothes!
Tomorrow a wet ride up to Fort Augustus is promised!
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