After missing our usual Applecross weekends for the last two years for various reasons, it was great to eventually get the bikes packed and get on our way. It was raining when we set off but by the time we got to Blair Atholl the skies started to clear. The further we rode, the better the weather became. We stopped for fuel in Invergarry then carried on for a couple of miles to the biker friendly Thistle Stop for food. It turned out to be a good call, so we stopped in on the way home too. We had a brilliant ride all the way to Applecross with a clear sunny run over the Bealach, no camper vans or cyclists to spoil our fun. We had booked a hut for the weekend which meant it was easier to get unpacked and sorted in time for our tea at the Walled Garden. I had almost forgotten how stunning Applecross was especially in the evening sunshine. The Walled Garden is a very peaceful and relaxing place to have a few beers and the food as always was excellent. We got to see their orphaned Pine Marten, recently rescued and soon to be released. After the long walk back to our hut we managed a couple of drams before bed. The next morning I got the camping stove out to make our breakfast, but unfortunately I had packed the wrong type of gas canister. We didn't need to think for too long before heading back to the Walled Garden. After taking our time over our breakfast we went for a walk up the hill that follows the coast road for the stunning views over to Raasay, Rona and Skye. We sat at a bench for ages watching the sea and the clouds rolling past. Sunday evening was spent in the Applecross Inn, the first time back in three years. To round off our last night we had another couple of drams back at the hut. We then had a slight problem as Lesley closed the door while the key was inside, and we were locked out after 11pm. Thankfully a fellow camper called the cheery warden who came round with a spare key. The weather stayed great for packing the bikes up and for the journey home.
