12th July 2021
A 7.30 start, not wanting to waste a scrap of time whilst on Skye, we got packed, fed and out as quickly as possible. We headed straight down to Armadale Castle. It was an overcast morning but the sun was back out by the time we arrived at the Castle. Erin and I went to the gift shop before we went into the grounds, which was a novel approach, however it was the only way to buy entry tickets.
We meandered around the Castle ruins, and then decided to take a walk around the forest. This turned into a mile and a half trek, through, what turned out to be, a very hot and humid forest. There were also several art installations which were dotted around the lower part of this forest. Odd, but interesting. This also involved climbing up a very steep hill before crossing at the top and coming back down to the castle. The visit was rounded off with a well deserved drink at the café.
By 12.30 we were on our way back to the mainland, and to Fort Augustus. A magnificent drive, not witnessed by Shani and Erin who slept pretty much all of the way. It was about a two hour drive, and we only stopped once. Fort Augustus is on the southern tip of the famous Loch Ness. We were staying at one of the most incredible hotels of the trip – The Lovat Hotel & Restaurant. Once we had checked in, we went for a walk around the town and, as usual, did some souvenir shopping! Unfortunately, the restaurant and bar were closed in the hotel, so we ended up eating at one of the other local pubs. Good food and friendly folk abounded. This was followed by a stroll down the the shores of the Loch. An experience everyone should have at least once in their lives.
This long day did not end early, and we eventually turned in just before midnight. A long, but highly enjoyable, day.