Day 5
Tuesday 16th May - Rannoch Forest to Tummel Bridge
A day we had not really been looking forward to, mainly because of the walk along the southern shore of Loch Rannoch, through Kinloch Rannoch and down to the holiday site at Tummel Bridge. It was necessary as we had to make some distance to get to Blair Atholl the following day in time for the train to Kingussie for Bernie's stag night.
However the day turned out to be anything but dull.
As we strolled along the lochside in the sunshine, and let's face it in stunning scenery, we met two elderly ladies who were down from I think Aberdeen taking a weeks holiday at their caravan which was sited on the land between the road and the loch, just near Carie. After a few moments chat they asked if we would like some tea and cake!! Has there ever been a challenger refuse that offer??
These two ladies were such fun characters. I think well into their 70s, both widowed but such good friends. They were laughing, and indeed at some quite cheeky suggestions. They insisted on photos with us. As the years have moved on, thirteen since, I wonder as I write this if they are still with us. If not, well rest in peace and god bless. If you are still with us, get out here in May as some bedraggled challenger will so need your supplies.
Soon, it seemed, after leaving these two gems we arrived in Kinloch Rannoch. Here we met up with the father and son in law team wearing cowboy hats throughout the crossing, and a couple who sadly had to withdraw soon after as the lady had fallen and twisted her back. I can't recall names.
Then we spotted, to our horror...a bar!
A rather up-market hotel, but our money is as good as anyone else's.
This time I was sure beyond sure. The barmaid really did want to be my best friend! As we left a couple of hours later for the stagger to Tummel Bridge, and with only Dave for company, reality was settling on me. Again.
The holiday site at Tummel Bridge gladly accepted our money and clearly indicated to us, two postage stamp's worth of grass on which to put our tents for the night. Right inside the entrance and feet from the campsite road.
Yes. We were allowed to use the showers and pool. I'm sure this was granted begrudgingly given our somewhat 'challenged' appearance.
Clean, and after a wee swim, Mmmmmmmmm a bar!
Surprisingly, after only one or two beers we hit the sack. Was it the awful beer or atmosphere of a car park? Probably both.
