Apologies for not posting yesterday, the internet connection on Skye was intermittent and weak at best. That aside, it is one of the most stunningly beautiful places we've ever visited. We began our day with a 'ramble' through the fields and moors surrounding the cottage, and learned a number of interesting things. One, sheep are far more agile than I previously gave them credit for. Two, whilst the moors may appear to be gently undulating expanses of wild grasses and heather, they are actually treacherous granite boulders interspersed with prickly bushes, grass and heather that is over half a metre high, and the ground is utterly sodden, to the point that I nearly lost my rain boots to mud that went halfway up my shin on a number of occasions. Three, the wind on Skye is like nothing I've felt before. Four, hills are much bigger up close. And finally, I'd go back in a heartbeat.
Our 'walk' took longer than expected, mainly because we decided that going off track seemed like a good plan, and we wanted to see the view from atop a small hill we were circling. It was safe, just very difficult terrain, deceptively so. The view was spectacular, however, and well worth the extra effort. Walking is the number one activity to do on Skye, and it's completely understandable given the stunning terrain and astonishing views. We were also particularly lucky with the weather. Whilst it was windy, there was no rain at all and it was beautifully clear for the entire duration of our visit.
After our bracing ramble we decided to drive the length of the peninsula to soak up more of the scenery, so we drove around the coast, stopping occasionally to hop out and enjoy the views. At one point, we were delighted to find a house featured on Grand Designs a few seasons ago (we just drove past) and really, by the time were were finished, the light was fading and it was time to head back to the cottage. We had dinner at the cottage, as there is a tiny restaurant run by the owners, and it was a lovely quiet meal. Afterwards, I finally got a chance to have a play of the Steinway in the sitting room, then we were ready for a night of British television and cider.
We had a relatively early start this morning as we knew that our drive from Skye to Aberdeen was one of the most likely to be affected by the flooding. However, we actually had an excellent run, in spite of the single lane A roads (as is one lane for both directions!), so we had time to stop in Inverness for a lovely lunch at a recommended restaurant overlooking the river. Following lunch, the traffic increased a little, slowing our progress somewhat, and as we neared Aberdeen-shire the rain became heavier, meaning that it was well and truly dark by the time we arrived at our beautiful hotel, a grand house that was converted to a hotel. In the end, we only encountered one road closure, so we got in around five.
For some reason, they upgraded us to a premium room, which is excellent, and since everything is shut after six, we just had a light meal in the bar before coming back to the room to type up our post and chill out with our leftover drinks from yesterday. Bottoms up!
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