Hullo. How are you? I hope you are having a good day. I’m Mark and I’m walking from Land’s End to John O’Groats…
I set off on today’s walk bathed in glorious sunshine, which made the hills and forests around me look otherworldly and enticing. The little town of Strathblane took on the appearance of a mountainous Mediterranean village. Such a great way to start the morning.
From the village, I followed the course of an old railway towards the West Highland Way. The path was quiet and calm with not a soul in sight. Many trees had fallen across the footpath, bringing down the barbed wire fences that usually line the track, which made it possible to head off into the pine woods to find ways around the blocked path.
At Dumgoyach bridge, the path joined the West Highland Way. This is one of Scotland’s Great Trails and, being so close to Glasgow, is very popular with tourists, locals and day walkers from all over. It was an amusing experience to step from the empty footpath from Strathblane onto the WHW and suddenly be among scores of people.
Many of the walkers left the trail at Dumgoyne, some of whom headed off to explore the hill, but most went no farther than the coffee shop.
At Gartness there is a very useful honest box with water and a few snacks. It is nice to come across these from time to time. Not only for their practical use but also for the uplifting feeling they always bring – knowing that hikers are a reliable and honest bunch.
The walk from Gartness to Drymen is along a quiet road, which follows gently rolling hills and made for a very easy end to the day.
As the road climbs up the small hill south of Drymen, the walker is suddenly presented by the first glimpse of Loch Lomond and the surrounding mountains.
I arrived into Drymen hours before being able to check in to the hotel, so headed to a restaurant for a long and generous lunch.
The Day 48 Vlog
Fundraising for MacMillan Cancer Support
As I walk from Land’s End to John O’Groats, I am hoping to raise £10,000 for MacMillan Cancer Support, who do such a wonderful job of supporting families through the most difficult times. If you are able to spare any amount and would like to donate to MacMillan, please do so through my Just Giving Page.
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