Weather was OK – initially dry and later some light drizzles that continued towards the next morning. Total of 24 km toda with a lot of up and down … first 200m up then roughly 5km in no-paths land.
After that I went up 500 altitude meters to the Munros of the Glenshee ski area and then back down to the cafe where I wrote yesterdays report.
After I left the cafe I had to go down the busy highway to Braemar for 2km to then turn east up the Carn an Tuirc. My goal was not to climb the Munro but to go to about 850m and then cut along the mountain north towards Loch Callater … worked more or less good.
After last years stop at the Callater Lodge I wanted to come back to actually stay and experience the fantastic camaraderie (and party) among the challengers. Typically with lots of alcohol and singing. On the way to the lodge I decided to just quickly go in there … say hallo and leave again.
What can I say … once arrived I was sucked in the setup … incredible friendship, hospitality and openness. Please note that this is a lodge … no running water, no electricity, no real toilets … that belongs to the Invercauld Estate and is operated by Bill for decades now.
Long story … I changed my mind and was offered a bed in the house. They have a total of 16 beds in 3 rooms plus extra space on the floors and camping outside plus attached Mountain Bothy.
„My“ room
It was a fantastic evening with singing and drinking till after midnight for me and longer for others.
I am very very glad that I stayed and experienced that … in my opinion a must for every challenger and an event that ties you even closer to the challenge.
I managed to get up next day at 07:30 to leave towards Jock‘s road and over to Glova Hotel. But next day is next day!
My Travel Adventures 