Absolutely Great Bernera

The walk from Valasay to Bostadh beach on Great Bernera is one of our favourites. I think this is the 5th time we've done it, and that scenery never loses its grandeur. It could, however, have all gone horribly wrong today. A half-mile or so on and we noticed a simply huge group of people ahead. Roughly 50 or so, clearly on a guided walk, and at every pinch-point (being every stile, or narrowing, or rocky climb) the bunching up was in evidence.

We pondered, carried on following them, stopped to stare at the sea from some rocks over a sarnie, then ambled at a slower pace than normal so as not to catch them up. Thankfully about 2/3rds of the way to Bostadh they peeled off as the path crossed a road in a small settlement, and the way was set clear once more. And fortunately by the time we got to the beach, the beautiful golden sands and turquoise waters of Bostadh, they hadn't looped round on the road, or been picked up by their coaches and deposited. 

When we come away like this for the peace and quiet, it really is 'exactly' what we're after.

It's a tiring walk, but worth it every single time, and with the wind switching to the north it was on our backs as limbs grew more weary towards the waiting car. The scenery on this walk is just stunning, from the lunar landscape on top of the small hills, to the calm waters of an extensive rock network forming a natural harbour, and the views out to the sands of Riof beach, or the mist-shrouded Harris hills.

I paddled, and shortly after some kids (to me, late teens, early 20s or so) took to the waters to swim, their youthful exuberance making me feel every one of my years. So heading back we flew my little pocket kite. Do something to make you feel ten years old again every day....

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Went for a run first thing today. Why on earth do people do this kind of thing voluntarily on a regular basis? (I've an ulterior motive to do with a charity event in a couple of weeks). That, combined with the walk, means I don't think my legs are working anymore.

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Also went out on the kayak tonight to look for otters, as with the wind now coming from the north, our area of the sea loch we face is sheltered by the land. no joy on the otters, but getting out on the boat rounded things out nicely.

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Also also. Got sunburnt.