Aviemore, Scotland to Inverness, Scotland
The final day of riding was also the coldest and rainiest, but it was only 37 miles to Inverness. I refused to end the trip on a train and was fully committed to crossing the finish line in a downpour if necessary.
Before starting the ride, I had an amazing breakfast at the Eriskay Guest House. This was by far the best place I stayed during the trip. The hosts were wonderful, and the homemade Scottish crumpets with Scottish salmon really hit the spot.
I was out on the road shortly after 9:00, which was right about when the drizzle started. For the first four miles, I rode on an A road before switching back onto the cycling route, where I stayed for the rest of the day. The route gradually climbed for about 15 miles, but I knew once I reached that point, the rest of the ride would be mostly flat or downhill.
With 20 miles to go, I was detoured a few times because of road construction, but eventually got back on course just as the rain really started coming down. Knowing the finish line was within reach, I just kept pedaling.
With eight miles to go, I reached a major tourist stop at the Clava Cairns, a 4,000-year-old prehistoric site. I walked around for a bit, but eventually decided to finish the ride and get out of the rain.
I stopped about a mile from the finish for lunch and then headed to the Black Isle Bar, where I’m staying tonight. I arrived an hour before check-in, so I stored my bike and bags and settled in with a couple of beers while waiting for a chance to finally dry off.
Ramblin' Dan: Bike Touring Adventures 