Off Jura and over the Bridge to Skye

Another calm crossing from Islay to Oban calling in at Colonsay gave excellent views across to Mull as we sailed gracefully in to Oban on a sunny afternoon. A chance to restock supplies was taken before I headed out to Fort William and then round to Loch Quoich parking high above the water with the side door aligned to the spectacular sunset. Two perfect days ensued enabling me to complete 2 circular walks and bag a couple of Munro's with the occasional brief blizzard adding to the stunning setting.

After a trundle round to Kyle of Lochalsh I crossed the graceful bridge and was soon at our cosy cottage near Broadford. The rest of the team arrived after long but uneventful drives up from Bristol and we enjoyed a good catch up.

Sunday saw a long and challenging day on the Black Cuillin ridge culminating in topping An Bhasteir  whose final exposed scramble was I decided a step too far for me after more than enough excitement over the last few months. Monday was another perfect day with good conditions for some of us to ascend Blabhein whilst a cloudier Tuesday saw a walk to Camasunary bothy. We split up again on the Wednesday as Nick and I completed a long circuit around Glen Brittle and Talisker seeing an otter during lunch, covering over 30 miles and attaining a speed of 38.5mph down a particularly loose and steep forestry track!

I took the bike over to Raasay for an energetic day exploring the hidden charms of the island  and reached the island of Fladda after taking Calum's Road built single handedly by an islander over a ten year period.

Our final day was marred by the early departure of Pete and Glen as the latter had been confined to bed with a serious stomach upset - a great shame for him as the weather had been condusive to enjoyment all week. The remaining trio enjoyed a good ride along an old marble quarry railway track and then a mountain track that dropped us down to the abandoned hamlet of Boreraig and along the coast to Suishnish.

A good meal to celebrate Nick's birthday topped off an excellent week and today after a tidy up of the house we set off in different directions as I have headed round to Ullapool to join the bothy work parties.

Phone and internet coverage are likely to be minimal for the next week until I return to Ullapool - meanwhile enjoy the piccies  here and keep an eye on the Spot to see where I have ended up.