Today we explored Killin and surrounding area. Up the good old A84 but this time we turned off half way down the hill that leads to Crianlarich (and has some of the best views of the higher mountains) On through a tunnel of forest and down to Killin. Briefly saw the Falls of Dochart from the car once we had negotiated the sharp left to cross the bridge - following a towed caravan so on-coming traffic kept well clear. If there was one place that could do with traffic lights, this is it.
Parked up (for free, tick in the box) and wandered through the village. Found a good outdoors shop that rented / sold snowshoes. Had been searching all winter so will return in the autumn when it snows again and rent a pair for the day then purchase if good. Very helpful in the shop too. We like Killin - Marie and John said we would!
We then walked through the trees to Loch Tay and found our way back via the river bank - a nice little circular, although if the river was anything like flowing it would be difficult if not impossible to do the return bit of the circle. Plenty of debris on the path to remind us that nature was in charge not too long ago. Saw plenty of people fishing and a family picnicking on the sandy beach.
A couple of pics of Loch Tay from the Killin end. April skies - with the showers soon to follow!
Decided to eat out (no provisions with us) and had lunch at The Smiddy - very good, freshly cooked food with friendly service and a nice dining area. Walked back up to see the falls - water flowing quite fast but shame the bridge is the best place for a photo - you take you life in your hands just crossing the bridge let alone setting up for a pic.
Drove east along Loch Tay towards Kenmore, searching for the Ben Lawers Hotel, just to check it out as a starting point for a future walk. Didn't get as far as the hotel, but plenty of campsites, static and mobile pitches plus a range of lodges, heated teepees and yurts. No wonder there were so many motorhomes / vans / caravans on this road. Spotted the road to the nature reserve, where we can tackle Ben Lawyers from in the future.
Headed home with a quick stop at Lochearnhead - nothing to see apart from a couple of jetties. Also decided to call in at the Falls of Leny - they had gone! At least the information board and parking area were desolate with no indication of where or how far to the Falls. Onwards then, back through a very busy Callander and home.
Looked up the hotel on the internet when we got home. Looks lovely with some good offers on-line. Decided it would be nice to stay overnight - especially if food & drink were available at the end of the long day on the hills with a few more steps taking you to a comfy bed.
The day of climbing (Sunday) was another round of Ben Cleuch - up The Law this time. Followed and caught a group of slow students - made us feel positively sprightly. They did have hangovers though; will take any handicap offered. Lunched in a small shelter just below the top of The Law. A force nine was blowing when we re-emerged so we hastened on with all available layers firmly on. Warm enough despite the wind-chill, we zoomed over the summit and carried on down through some deep but small snow fields and finished on the farm track as the weather came in and the clouds came down. Completed the round in just over four hours today - finally the fitness levels are returning.
Legs feeling fine today. Unlike last week when we both struggled to walk properly until at least Wednesday.
It's all a distraction really until the planners at the Highland Council make their decision. Consultation period finished - we can but wait. Am trying for patience and managing it some days, on others we just want it to be done. Spending useful time choosing flooring, colour schemes, bathrooms and kitchens so will be ready to roll once the call comes.
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