Our journey started from Fort William, leaving the car at the B & B after a relaxed overnight stay. We were rather delighted to find that the Black Isle Bar had opened and enjoyed a mighty fine pizza and a refreshing beverage (or two). Company was good and we enjoyed chatting to others, whiling away a couple of hours while the rain battered down outside. Careful planning ensured we got the pub before it started and left as it went off. 1-0 up!
The next stage saw us take the mid-morning train to Milngavie, and the world once again proved tiny, finding our allocated seats opposite an American couple we’d chatted to over breakfast. Cue lots of chat about their West Highland Way adventure and our upcoming trip.
Arriving in Milngavie we went for a walk to investigate the start of the route. Having found the start (and a new signpost indicating the correct way where previously we’ve gone wrong), we headed back to the centre. The discussion then involved pub or coffee. I won! So we had coffee, then went to the pub. Got my doggy fix in both, initially with Basil the Dalmatian, who had a rather impressive foray into Costa, sadly thwarted by his human who had initially been fooled into thinking he would be delighted to see him and requesting his lead be let loose; fooled! He said a brief hello, approached another few folks, then headed indoors for cake (or not). The second, a friendly chocolate Labrador in the pub who took advantage of being local, frequently doing a circuit taking in the bar (and behind it) before being ushered out. Think he was disappointed to find that the three dog biscuits on his first ‘bounce’ were not to be repeated.
A good night’s sleep in Premier Inn followed by a hearty breakfast ensured we were good to go.
Clare, happiest outdoors! 