Tyndrum – Bridge of Orchy

Thank god the hostel drying room had something to show. Taking on yet another day of mist and rain didn’t seem as bad with dry gear and newfound friends by my side. Every inch of us was covered by waterproof fabric as we headed out onto Tyndrum’s paved roads. I was still dreaming of last night’s wine and caramel pretzel pieces. Both Molly and Magnolia walked with me out of town and upwards into the rolling green hills. Magnolia had completed the WHW several times before, and her local knowledge had secured me a bed for tomorrow night. Wide rocky tracks slick with mud winded through the open pastures, think God’s Own Country.

Since I’d walked to Tyndrum instead of Crianlarich yesterday, today would be my short day. After an hour in the rain, Magnolia and Molly turned back. We exchanged long hugs, and still keep in touch sporadically on Facebook. Check out Magnolia Ace Photography for her epic Scottish wilderness photography!

It didn’t take me long to catch up to Tom and Jo, and we travelled through the mist together. Jo had an incredibly large blister on her heel, and with my nine to match we were sworn blister sisters. The landscape gradually changed from woodlands to highlands, but the mountains were covered in layers of cloud. I submerged into tunnel vision and focused on my boots squishing softly on the immediate path ahead. My feet ached deeply when we reached the Bridge of Orchy Hotel, which lay like a white pearl amidst the green and grey. This was by far the most fancy accommodation I splurged on for the WHW, the dining room glistened with tall glasses, vases of flowers and soft fabric napkins. I felt like a dirty child coming in from the playground.