Ross-shire & Sutherland July 2007

A beautiful day today, and an early departure for a long piece along the A837 to Forsinard. This may be an A-road, but it's single track and there is very little traffic. At Forsinard visit to the nature information centre in the old station building. The large Forsinard hotel has no public bar, unfortunately. Further on then, three more road miles up to Forsinain, and then eastward on the forest track. The conifer plantations have not been successful, and are now gradually felled to restore the old peatland. It one large, featureless plain here with peat moors and lochans, with some hills far on the horizon. Fortunately there is a sound sand and gravel track to cross this difficult terrain. There is nearly nobody around though, just crossed one car, probably transporting anglers.

About 19.00, after 21 miles, I eventually reach eventual Altnabreac station (ND004457), my planned end destination, even one day ahead of schedule, thanks to the good progress the last two days. Two hours to kill on the midge-infested platform, and then sign the 21.09 to Thurso stop (request stop!). A ticket from Altnabreac is a rare thing: less than 200 passengers get on or off here every year. At Thurso, check in in Sandra's hostel, and then to the Commercial Bar for some well-tasting pints!