On Thursday 26th October we arrived about 5pm at the Huntingtower Hotel, pleased to see many of the good friends Phil and I have made over the years at our quattro get togethers. After a lovely evening meal, we arranged our groups for the next day drive.
Friday morning, after a hearty Scottish breakfast, we set off. A scenic journey via a snowcapped Ben Nevis, through the Highlands, Glencoe and towards Fort William. After driving through beautiful Kenmore, missing a turn (as did group 1!) and passing so many beautiful lochs for me to remember, we stopped for lunch at Holly Tree Hotel, overlooking the amazing Loch Linnhe. The weather was cold but sunny, perfect!
The route back to our hotel took us via the Cruachan Dam visitor Centre, and more beautiful scenery. We arrived back late afternoon, refueled and met again in the Huntingtower restaurant. Another superb meal is enjoyed, again in excellent company.
On Saturday morning we set off towards Loch Fyne, passing through Creiff, Comrie, Lochearnhead, Crianlarich and along Loch Awe. After 100 miles or so at quattro pace, we turned down a long drive to the Ardgarten Hotel in a most picturesque of places - on the banks of Loch Long with far reaching views. We enjoyed our soup and sandwich lunch and meet up with our old friend David Birdsall who lives just down the road – it was lovely to see him!
The return journey took us past Loch Lommond and through the Trossachs. What can I say? More beautiful scenery – everywhere you looked - the locals that live here (or should I say stay here?) are so lucky.
The Saturday night gala dinner was great. Everyone dresses up and received a goody bag as a reminder of a great weekend. Stephen, Terry and Keith (and the better halves!) worked their little socks off to make it so memorable for us all.
I would like to say a big thank you to all those connected with this year’s Scottish Tour – the organizers, participants and friends old and new. Without these people this Tour wouldn’t happen, and I, for one, can’t wait until the next one!!! Roll on October 2019.
Justine Welton – Area E