John O'Groats to Oban

John O'Groats
John O'Groats is the most northerly part of the UK/Scottish mainland. Lots of people talk about John O'Groats as sort of the northerly end of the world. So when we were nearby, we decided to stop. 

I was expecting this signpost. I was not expecting a huge parking lot, souvenir shops, cafes, ice cream shops, a Christmas shop, and more! However, I have to say it was fun - and the ice cream cones were delicious. The wind was still blowing like mad - and dramatic waves were crashing against the shore. 

Loch Ness

The next morning dawned bright, sunny and with almost no wind! We were so excited. We resumed our drive south, passing Inverness and turning southwest along the Great Glen, the fault that bisects the highlands from Inverness to Fort William. The Caledonian canal is the series of lochs, rivers and canals that follows the fault - and allows boats to traverse from one side of Scotland to the other. 

Driving along Loch Ness is tricky, because the mountains plunge right into the loch, which just enough room for a twisty road on one side. But we found a road-side stop with stairs down to the loch. 

Later we stopped at Oich bridge to stretch our legs - and marvel at the bridge. 

Oban

And finally, we made it to Oban, on the western side of Scotland. We stayed here in 2019, and I have to say, it's a cute town. It was a gorgeous day - sunny and warm - so it was *covered* in tourists - but cute. 

And while the view from this apartment isn't as good as last time (w were in one of these waterfront buildings last time) - we're still enjoying watching the boats come and go.