Highland Fling

The West Highland Way gave me a taste of the Scottish Highlands and I wanted some more...  This weekend's destination was Crianlarich, Portnellan, and it didn't disappoint.

My husband and I met up with some of our best friends and their families in the tranquil countryside a few miles North of Tyndrum to stay in beautiful self catering cottages and lodges.   The accommodation had the most wonderful views over the hills and lochs, with not much nearby it was fantastic for a peaceful retreat but with plenty of roads, tracks, canoes and forestry paths to keep me amused.  The owner of Portnellan lodges, Cameron, was a keen triathlete and was extremely welcoming.  He took the time to chat to us, show us route maps and chit chat about training in the area.

Just one of the fantastic views at Portnellan on a wee afternoon walk

A hilly 10 mile run on the Saturday morning as the sun split the blue sky sweated out the mojitos and fajitas from the evening before and rewarded us with magnificent view over to Ben More and the loch below.  Loch Katrine was only a short drive away so we headed there en-mass, hangovers in tow, where we dined and had a tour on the Sir Walter Scott.  The banter and drinks flowed later into the evening after a bbq but finished slightly earlier than the night before since many of us were still a tad fragile and I clumsily spilled hot chai tea all over me (maybe too much ginger beer for me!!)

Loch Katrine on the Sir Walter Scott

Sunday morning was a 22 mile flattish bike ride into Killin to see the stunning Falls of Darroch.  With hardly a soul about it was a lovely cycle to clear the mind and take in the scenery.  Perfect timing to arrive back with my husband making breakfast for the group, my favourite scrambled eggs and toast for me, followed by a little canoe in the loch before making the drive back to Kintyre.  A brilliant weekend.

It was all a bit too much fun for Stuart.  Afternoon nap required.

I'd definitely recommend the area, perfect for outdoor activities or just relaxing with friends and family.  Check out Portnellan's website if you fancy a Highland Fling!