Day Trip to Elgol

An early start was much appreciated, with mist at first covering a large proportion of mountains but quickly through the ride dissipating to reveal sharp outlines against the deep blue sky. A few vehicles approached but very few passed during the 14 miles to the Elgol pier. While enjoying a breakfast it was surprising to see Ali arrive so early to prepare the Misty Isle kiosk and to have a mug of tea delivered to the table. Later it emerged that Ali Watt had taught Physics at Portree and Anne found what we were struggling to remember – the phrase “nominative determinism” for a person whose surname closely relates to their job.

This day in Elgol was such a contrast with that in Lap 1. The day was perfect for the boat trips and lots of the Misty Isle staff were on duty. Also, Calum was in Elgol because the couple he was showing around Skye were taking the Misty Isle to Loch Coruisk.

It was a shock to hear that Calum’s dad Stuart, when driving for his firm Skye Local Tours, had been admitted to hospital and had treatment for an awful case of cellulitis starting in an elbow and later extending to his fingertips. His mother Anne thought that he would be unable to drive for six weeks on return from Raigmore Hospital in Inverness, and would need daily injections at Broadford Hospital.

A conversation with fellow traveller Marta covered a lot of ground. She had been trekking alone on Skye, finding that you notice the scenery more when not talking to friends, and spoke about a special bothy on the Isle of Lewis. It is described in detail by Geoff Allan in The Scottish Bothy Bible. Marta does a vital job, caring for people who have just come out of hospital, and has much experience to share.

A visit to Elgol is enhanced by sampling the food and drink on sale. Coffee and seafood from Hermione (near the pier) and dishes with freshly baked bread from Rosario at the new cafe by the community centre do not disappoint.

It was good to see cousin Shay recover relatively quickly at his home after walking further than expected with his dog. The house built so high up has a commanding view of the Coruisk boats and Anne answers plenty of calls enquiring about Misty Isle trips in the near future. Shay and Anne gave me cuttings from The Press & Journal weekend edition of May 3rd in which Misty Isle Boat Trips featured both on the front page and in a substantial article inside by Sarah Bruce. The online version (which can take a while to load) is even more informative and has some impressive photographs.

The cycle back to Broadford in such favourable weather was in great contrast to the rain and high wind in Lap 1 and the variety of scenery was really appreciated. This was a great day trip!