It was a windy, but dry day and as I considered it to be cold, for the better part of the day, I wore three layers to protect the core.
The route was flatter compared to the previous day, but still a fair number of undulating sections. For the first part of the day, the route followed Loch Ness. The ruins of Urquhart Castle was visible on its beautiful eternal setting on the shores of Loch Ness. The castle is one of the most visited in Scotland and dates back to the thirteeth century. It used to be a royal castle and played a role in the Wars for Scottish Independence in the fourteenth century. Urquhart had always been one of my favourite castles and I was very pleased for the view of today.
After a while, the route left Loch Ness and climbed gently along pine forests and paths surrounded by ferns and purple heather.
As I walked today, I contemplated about a comment made by one of my friends. She praised my photographs, but questioned the absence of people and encouraged me to talk about my inner journey.
With my photographs I wanted to showcase the beautiful scenery and nature of this island. In my opinion, people always distract the true nature, miid and essence of a photograph as one focuses on the person or people and consequently missing the true essence of the image. Besides, apart from when Paul walked with me, I had no people to put in photos in any case.
Throughout ones life, the inner journey continues to evolve and takes you on paths that could build you or break you down. On this walk, I have encountered situations unknown to me - situations that I have never had to deal with nor managed. I have learned a lot about what I am capable of, how I would respond in unknown situations and how far I could push myself. Yes, I had a journey, but by no means had I the desire to find myself. I had found myself a long time ago when I had realised that inner happiness is the key. You have to be happy within yourself as no amount of external stimuli could make you happy. Anyway, far too much red wine moments here!!
The last 10km today, I walked through Inverness, where Lorinda and Alex joined me for dinner at my hotel in North Kessock, Inverness. To get to my hotel, I had to cross a suspension bridge across the Firth of CromartyAs I would need to leave from Inverness, it made more sense to stay there.
Finally! I conquered The Great Glen Way!! One last challenge still remains - The John O’Groats Trail!!
Route: Ancarraig Lodges near Drumnadrochit to Inverness
Great Glen Way
Distance: 42.1km
Steps: 60277
Cal: 3036 act kcal
