Day 3
Gairloch to Lochinver
150km, 2,300m ascent
I didn’t quite know how to react. 30km into today’s ride, and there we were, riding side by side and having a pleasant chat when, out of nowhere, Simon says “I Love You”. I mean, Simon’s a good friend and all that, but really? Thankfully, before I had a chance to respond, he repeated “Isle of Ewe, over there, in the middle of Loch Ewe.” Ah, yes, of course, well spotted. Awkward situation averted.
The first 50km from Gairloch to Dundonnell took us past (Pushme) Poolewe and onwards to the dramatic setting of a view looking East along Little Loch Broom – truly magical. After the usual mid morning pit stop, off we went in pursuit of lunch in Ullapool, but we were made to work hard for our reward – a number of energy sapping climbs contributed to us making light work of a sizeable lunch.
The last 60km was great. Wind behind for the most part, the climbs felt much easier. Passing by Loch Assynt, I was reminded of a kayak/camping trip from a number of years ago that was cut short on account of being mauled by the midges. Not long afterwards we arrived into Lochinver, today’s final destination, for a celebratory crab sandwich. As you do. How they managed to pack that much crab into one sandwich I’ll never know, but for sure there was one very grateful recipient. Longest day done.
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