'Ugly Hollow'

 July 23rd

Last night we stopped overlooking Loch Broom. As high up as we were, not a midge to be seen, and it was nice to open the skylights to let a cool breeze in. Considering the road was very nearby, it was remarkably quiet and no more visits from those jets!

This morning we left early for Corrieshalloch Gorge. Arrived by 9 am only to find cones had been placed across the car park. Blast, so now what? A small lay-by had been passed, so Ian turned around and headed for that.

Twiddling our thumbs for 30 minutes, we eventually set off again. Good grief, the car park was already filling up and the only four motorhome spaces had just the one space left. But one was all we needed, so quickly reversed in just as another two motorhomes arrived. They would have to go to the overflow car park about half a mile further along the road! (note to anyone reading this with a motorhome, this car park has some service facilities, elsan, and fresh water but no grey waste disposal. You pay a minimal fee of £7.50, although as this place is NT, they welcome further donations).

The service point was by the light coloured wooden structure in the centre of the roundabout.

The day was glorious, no sign of rain, so left the waterproofs behind. Anti midge cream was liberally sprayed on, and we even purchased 2 midge nets to cover faces. Yes, midges were about, but in so few numbers we didn't even bother putting them on. 

Two paths could be taken, the easier to the bridge and lookout over The Falls of Measach and the other a bit more strenuous Lady Fowler fern walk. We did both.

So if we can read this, why can't Ian?

Too close to the edge...arghhhh

The gorge

Back at MB, lunch was had before leaving for Inverness. 44 miles to get there, although a short detour would be made for the cheapest diesel we had found. At £1.44 a lt and £1.39 for petrol, it was worth doing the 5-mile out of our way.

Halfway to Inverness, a sign appeared with Rogie Falls on it. Of course we stopped, regular readers will know of our love of falls. Anyway, it was not just the falls to see but according to the sign, this was the best place to see Salmon leap during July to September. 

The trek was about 1km return so not far, all downhill, mind, with some very steep slopes! I didn't bother with the sticks and instantly regretted that with the first long downhill. It was all worth it, the falls were spectacular and yes the Salmon were leaping. We stayed far too long, I got some great shots of the Salmon, though.

I was breathing heavy by the time I had made it back to MB, and glad to kick off the walking shoes and have a long drink of water. I'm sure that path was steeper on the return journey! Anyway, Inverness was reached and Morrison found. We stocked up with wine, to think the last time wine was bought was beginning of June. No, we hadn't gone Tee total, just filled every nock and cranny in MB with bottles and have steadily been going through it ever since.

The park and ride Inverness was motorhome friendly and £10 paid to stay overnight. The only trouble was how near to the road we were.  I think we may have a disturbed night.

And wildlife