Lochbuie, Isle of Mull

Before leaving Uisken beach we gave Marge a tidy and a clean. That's the joy of fine weather, we were able to utilize all the outside space around us including the table next to us. A lady who lives right by the beach was walking her dog when we left. She remembered us from the last time we stayed here on May 16th. We couldn't believe we have travelled to so many islands and een so much since then. It seemed like only yesterday. After discussing where we were heading today, which was Carsaig, she told us how 'interesting' the drive down was. 'Just make sure you note where the last passing place was'. Twice she said, ' you'll be fine in your truck'. It doesn't take a lot for Angela to become anxious, she was now! The road down to Carsaig seemed fine to us, passing places a plenty, and then suddenly it wasn't. Narrow, steep, a drop down on one side, boggy verges and no passing places! Just when we thought it couldn't get any worse, a steep descent down with bends. Blind bends and still no passing places. Angela was a nervous wreck, and glad she wasn't driving. On park4night the overnight spot by the old stone pier promised sunsets and seals. We walked out through sodden peaty ground, over a rocky beach, crossing fresh water streaming down from waterfalls.

(Underside of a Sea Urchin stranded on the beach, consequently popped into a rockpool)

The view across to Jura and Islay were lovely and we discussed how lucky we were to be able to be here with this view at this moment. We talked about the visitors we'd seen whilst we were in Glencoe and on Skye. Their trips organized to take in the 'sights', never really seeing the other side of Scotland. We have enjoyed talking to the local people. Everyone has been friendly. At Lochbuie we've become friendly with a man called Bob whose building his own house.

Yes, we're back at Lochbuie! There are a lot more people staying here now. We were surprised our regular spot under the trees was taken by a small tent, staying in it a family of six! But we didn't mind, the space next to it is better when the weather's good, which it has been for a few days now. To think we nearly gave up on Scotland all those weeks ago. As for Lochbuie, Angela asked Bob what the winters were like at Lochbuie? 'Wet and dark', he replied. Suddenly Lochbuie didn't sound so idyllic.