We skirt alongside the A9 for a while following the cycle track (Old A9) and cars and lorries were tooting their horns in support. ITN’s relatives were now heading down to join us from Inverness on the train. We were trying to make it to Slochd summit in time for them to see us from the train but we were a little ahead of schedule. The sighting was made further up.
ITN’s folks joined us later on the walk after Colin picked them up from Carrbridge station. We continue our stroll and head towards Tomatin. A lady, who was from the junior school further up the road, stopped us and said the school children wanted to cheer us on as we went past and asked if we’d mind. As if we’d mind.
The sound of those children applauding took the aches away from all of us. We took a few photo’s with them and had a chat. Our lunch time stop at the Little Chef was soon put to a halt when we were told they were unable to serve any food because the tills weren’t working. Modern technology now prevents you from eating. We then back tracked to the Tomatin Inn and hung around for a while before it opened. Food and drink were consumed before recommencing the walk.
We joined by a reporter and photographer from the Press & Journal who proceeded to find a suitable location for a mug shot. This took some twenty minutes of messing about. The walk finally got underway again in earnest as we strolled along the B9154 (Old A9) through Moy. This tree lined road did not give many scenic views whatsoever and was a long boring stretch of tarmac. I was glad of someone to talk along here.
Destination for the day was Daviot where the bus was awaiting our arrival once again. We had covered about 20 miles today. Looking over at Daviot Wood it suddenly dawned on us that, beyond the hill, lay the city of Inverness - we were almost there. Finishing here also meant we had only about eight miles to do on the last day instead of about eighteen.
Our overnight stop was at Carrbridge and the brilliant bunkhouse. It was like a Wild West log cabin and was absolutely brilliant. I loved that place. Once again, we dined out and headed for the Cairn Hotel down the road. We there in time to see ourselves on BBC Scotland and this caused a few cheers in the pub. Our collection bucket was duly rattled and placed on the bar. A terrific end to the day. (Chris’s attempt to down a pint in one was almost successful until he put more back into the glass than he got out!!!).
Ped Reading was 19.51 miles 38194 steps.