Carbisdale Castle

On the weekend of 7th and 8th March a team of hardy cyclists set out from Inverness to cycle to Carbisdale Castle, spend the night there and return the following morning. The forecast was reasonable so Saturday saw us meeting at the Palace Hotel to set off around 9am (Bruce time)

We did have some rain and when we got to the top of the Struie, though a fabulous view awaited us, we couldn't really see it at its best! However we were geed on by the thought of stopping for a pint at The Lady Ross Hotel in Ardgay before our last 5 miles to the hostel. We hadn't bargained on the fact that the hotel had closed down for business andthe nearest was a couple of miles off our route in Bonar Bridge. We thought a hot bath was more appealing than doing an extra few miles even if the Guinness was calling!

Inside the castle was an awe inspiring sight. The decor, the statues, even the ceiling in the dining hall was beautiful. The staff were very friendly and helpful. The evening meal was wholesome and satisfying. The wine flowed and Ann's massage parlour was in much demand. A game of Charades finished the evening off nicely.

Sunday morning started off with the sun shining and gorgeous views up the Shin Valley, and the mountains on either side. However before we set off there were flurries of snow which kept us back but we eventually decided to go. The weather continued to close in. Snow flakes like needles on our faces and in our eyes, making conditions evermore hazardous until we came to the conclusion that it was both futile and dangerous to continue.

We stopped at Tomich Cafe, thawed out, had some tea and soup and called for assistance to come to our rescue. It was a sad end to our weekend but it was the wisest decision to make, we still had nearly 30 miles before we reached Inverness and the weather, though pleasant between the showers was not showing any signs of abating. We abandoned bikes and headed home.

We will return to complete the route but we'll wait for a better day!