Invernahavon Campsite to Killin

This was a tough day’s cycling with a sting in the tail, reaching over 500 feet in altitude and including many sometimes steep climbs negotiating the banks of Loch Tay. (The much earlier 400 m ascent to Drumochter Pass is gradual and expected). There were some good views of Loch Tay from high up and it would be good to repeat this section towards the start of a day. Today’s stats are 75 miles with over 4000 feet of ascent and 2088 active calories.

During the ascent of Drumochter Pass from the north and much of the descent the excellent path surface was really appreciated and a huge improvement on the deteriorated condition a few years ago.

There were several showers and dull periods today but at times the sun was hot. For much of the route there were welcome sections with shade from trees.

Two hotels have been helpful today. At Victoria’s in Pitlochry my order of coffee was served together with a huge bottle of water with ice and a lemon slice. The amount of it consumed suggested dehydration and my thanks to the individual afterwards were obviously appreciated. Here in the Falls of Dockart Inn in Killin they have helped me with my phone in various ways and allowed me to sit at the side of the bar close to a socket now being used to completely charge it. Connection to WiFi is necessary because the walls of the old inn are so thick that the phone signal strength is down to 3G. The inn has its own malt whisky not sold elsewhere and enjoyed minutes ago by customers and now by me.

On the approach to Killin, a man gave perfect directions to a “campsite” but did not know they cannot take tents. A most helpful lady in their office gave me a strong hint about what looks to be a fine wild camping site, perhaps bettered by a suggestion from the manager here.