Skye to Inverness 1: Skye

Monday

The original plan was a drive around Skye early & before breakfast; returning to the fuel stop in Broadford before going back to the mainland. This plan changed - all cars running well except Andy's in search of a new tyre - so early off after breakfast for the circular run around Skye.

Day 3 - AM - Skye & The Quiraing

Heading up to Struan, Uig then across to Staffin via the Quiraig; The Quiraig being the star of the route & unexpected for me (although planned by Keith & Andy)

(I dont recall if we went all the way to Dunvegan or cut back towards Uig from Struan)

Route on Google Maps

The morning was clear again time for a quick walk along the pier just outside the hotel while cars were uncovered and checked; There was talk of a seal in the bay, but I didn't see it.

Then on to the fuel stop next door with Andy away in search of a new tyre & we head off in loose convoy.

A pause at Struan on the west coast.

Some calls to check on Andy's progress and where he would meet us, & Dan checks on brakes/oil situation.

Words not required, even the pictures capture some of the stunning scenery, in real life these vistas go on for ever.

Some short discussion on whether that trawler, right of the Island, is moonlighting and picking up his catch direct from the fish farms...

At the next stop I split from the main group - a little alone time on an open road required - so agreed with Keith to meet up later at the Broadford garage for fuel.

The Quiraing

The road over the Quiraing was the star of the run, taking the turn after Uig towards Staffin. I drove without pause right across the top, hairpins on the way down and past the cemetery (a sort of warning for those too speedy) on the right at the bottom. Long fast road down with great visibility and a clear drive; I don't think I met another vehicle all the way.

These pictures courtesy of the other group which paused here

The signature picture of the trip - an Englishman , Irishman and a  Scot with a flag atop an outcrop. (There is a joke there somewhere, but I can't think of an appropriate punchline)

Staffin Bay and South:

My journey continued alone north as the pass road met with the A855; and a rest stop overlooking Staffin Bay, its namesake island and the mainland far on the horizon.

The road beckons south...

The main A87 road - but views over water to the left, and Skye's mountains to the right some looking like they have been torn apart & cracked over hundreds of thousands of years.

We meet up again at the Broadford garage, fill-up after the 100 odd mile jaunt & I'm reunited with my spare tyre. Andy lucked out and found a single replacement racing tyre at the local garage. 

All set to move on again towards the Applecross Pass & lunch at the Inn which takes the same name.

(Maps are not entirely acurate due to blogger/google maps embedding, some pictures courtesy other members of the trip)