Anticipation
We are now back on track today after a first extra day in Tarfside. We were schedueled to be in Tarfside today and that is where we are. Waking up in the campsite we watched all the other Challengers pack up and move on for their final days walks to the coast, but we got to sleep in.
We are now back on track today after a first extra day in Tarfside. We were schedueled to be in Tarfside today and that is where we are. Waking up in the campsite we watched all the other Challengers pack up and move on for their final days walks to the coast, but we got to sleep in.
Once up and moving we found Lynsey and headed down to The Retreat for some breakfast. The Retreat is an upscale B&B in the area that caters to walkers and others doing activities in the area.
They know about the Challenge and cater to them during this week with some nice amenities like a refueling station with water and coffee and they also allow you to charge your smart devices.
We got a great cup of tea and a scone and relaxed in their dining room for an hour or so.
Everything here is homemade and very good
They have a museum celebrating the culture and history of the surrounding area.
Museum building
Giant Stag sculpture made from branches, located out in front of the museum
As the day went on more Challenger friends showed up and all of them love Vicky!
The legends of Tony (left) and Lee (right) who also showed Vicky a great time in the Cairngorm Hotel Bar on Thursday night while watching Tweed
and a pair of our best Scottish friends on the Challenge Emma (left) and Louise (center), who cross every year solo and are a great inspiration to Vicky and I
Most of the day was spent resting and talking with fellow challengers but toward the evening the local Mason organization opened their lodge for Challengers with drinks and food.
It was great ambiance to be at the bar with a roaring fire and talk of the previous weeks adventures with all the Challengers.
(Lee,Tony and Bob Cartwright at the Bar). Bob, on his 10th crossing, had earlier interviewed Vicky and I for his Outdoor Station podcast, an ironic turn as it was Bob's podcasts where I had first learned of the Challenge years ago.
Panorama of the complete inside of the lodge
Vicky in line for a few burgers
Old fashioned coal fire in the fireplace
A great photo of Vicky and myself sharing stories- taken by Ian Cotterill
Evening falls on the campsite again with a new set of Challengers. Vicky and I will be up and off tomorrow with them to finish walking to the sea.
I just love these places that you stop! They look so cozy and the scones make my mouth water. You all are so lucky to be able to make a trip like this and make so many friends. When you come back just for a visit, it will be like coming home! Looking forward to your final walk to the sea and the end of your adventure for this year.
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