Sun, Blue Skies and Smooth Sailing

This morning we left the Isle of Skye's primary town of Portree and headed south to catch the Ferry at Armadale for the crossing of the Sound of Sleet. We arrived in plenty of time to have some shopping and refreshments before departure. 

The journey was only 30minutes on blue, calm water.

Disembarking at Mallaig we then made our way on the A830 which closely follows the same route as the railway line. Unfortunately our timing has not coincided with the running of the Jacobite Steam Train however we were able to experience the same scenery including snow on the mountains and to see a couple of the Viaducts including the one at Glenfinnan, made famous by the Harry Potter Films.

We wound our way round twists and turns, up and down hills, along side lochs and rivers, past forests and always surrounded by snow covered mountains. We have been extremely lucky to have the snow at this time of the season (the locals say). Today reached 13 degrees during our travelling  which meant removing layers of clothing when we pulled over for photo stops.

When we arrived at Fort William we headed straight to Neptune's Staircase which is a series of 8 locks which can elevate or lower boats 20meters.

Steps located on each side of the locks make for good exercise.

In Fort William we had a bit of a look aroun town.

Restocked up on supplies.

Spotted some Highland Cattle with their long hair coats and horns.

Then a drive to Glen Nevis through the Nevis Gorge to the spectacular Steall Falls.

Water was running fast as it would appear has been the case for hundred of years, judging by the interesting hollows evident on the rocks.

Not nearly as much walking today which is good for the legs to have sometime to recouperate.

An earlier arrival at our B&B tonight - Braeside House. This is the view from our Room.

Tomorrow onto Ayr, for our last night in Scotland.