Day 42: Taynuilt - Fort William

We left around noon from the place where we had slept, and the truth is it was hard to leave. We were between a forest and a lake, in the middle of nature, with its little birds, its trees and its miches... well, the miches are not missed, but the rest was a pleasure. Quiet, beautiful, and the ideal place for daddy Edu and uncle Joan to recharge their batteries (I'm always ready, I don't need a recharge).

We went by car to Glencoe, that place of dramatic mountains, theatrical clouds and impossible parking. In fact, we tried to park in the Three Sisters car park, but it was more full than my bowl of kibble when it's freshly served (and you know that doesn't last long). We had to wait a good while until a space was freed up. Meanwhile, I was already vibrating with excitement: we were going to do a route called The Lost Valley.

And I'll tell you: The Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail in Gaelic) is a hidden valley between huge peaks, where, they say, the MacDonald clan hid stolen cattle. I thought it was an excellent idea! Stealing sheep and hiding them? I would have been the best barking sidekick.

The trail begins between rocks, waterfalls and giant ferns. You have to climb a little, dodge slippery stones and in some sections it seemed like we were climbing a giant's staircase. We wanted to do the circular route, about eight miles (more than twelve kilometers, my goodness!), going up to the pass and down the other valley, but we were going a little slow. Well, they were slow, I do well on all fours, although when the path started to get very steep, even I had to change gears.

When we reached the beastliest point of the ascent, daddy Edu said the magic word: "Shall we go back?" And we all looked at each other like when someone asks if we want candy. Yes, please! So we turned around, to look for the way back.

But not without a final thrill: to get back to the trail you have to cross a river. On the way there we had passed it without problem, but on the way back... let's say the stones were dancing more than before. I tried to do it my way, jumping from stone to stone like an acrobat, but the water made me respect. Then a very kind lady, who smelled like a dog (the good kind), took me in her arms and crossed me like a wet baby. Daddy Edu was saying "thank you, thank you", while I put on my best face of "this was not my idea". I don't like being touched without permission...

We returned to the car after doing almost eight kilometers, tired but proud. Well, I was only a little tired, but very proud. We got in and went north, to Fort William, and a little further on.

In that area there are several places to spend the night, but one was already full of campers (some bigger than my ego), and also without coverage, which makes daddy Edu nervous because he can't look at the weather, the maps or, what is more serious, the forecast of midge bites.

We continued and found another place, perfect for 4x4 vehicles like the brave cell we carry. The road was muddy up to the ears, but with a little skill and mud on the wheels, we arrived. The place is very beautiful, there are trees, fields, and it smells of pure nature (with touches of wet sheep). Ideal for resting after a day of adventures, aquatic acrobatics and unexpected canine rescues.

Now, with a full belly (kibble again... you know), and after a few turns to make the perfect bed, I stand on my favorite blanket. Tomorrow, more. And hopefully, less water crossing rivers.