Brodrick, Isle of Arran (Day 2)

Our lady neighbour last night appeared outside with three dogs and a cat. She lived in her motorhome, working in the bar of a nearby hotel. We talked a while about the usual topics associated with van life. We also discussed the weather, which she never checked. It was, what it was.

This morning we were surprised to awake to sunshine. Today was supposed to be grim. Before breakfast, Angela took a walk out by the nearby beach bar, and did a little hand washing.

Then we moved up onto the seafront to park and visit the tourist office, ferry terminal, a few shops, stopping for coffee before a walk on the shore. By now light rain had crept in, but the sun persisted so we decided to drive down the coast to Corrie where we parked on the harbour side between two other vehicles.

John spoke to one couple about cycle touring and Angela to the others about, who else, Muddy Marge. We were only fifteen miles from Lochranza, where we arrived by ferry from Claonaig a few days ago, do decided to drive through the mountains back there. Arran, Scotland in miniature it certainly is. The drive through the mountains, wind buffeting Marge from the side, made us feel we were back in the Highlands. But the rain eased and we were able once again to sit out enjoy our afternoon refreshment at the Sandwich Station.

The little cafe is right opposite the bus shelter and ferry port. As in most of the islands bus shelters dining chairs have been placed alongside the bench seating. We've seen this before, and we liked the idea of it. If the forecast for tonight would have been more favourable we would have liked to stay over this side of the island for our last night. But alas it is not looking good. Heavy rain and winds gusting at 44 mph means we must stay once again at Brodick as it is more sheltered.