West Highland Way - Day 6

Kingshouse to Kinlockleven - GPS 87.6miles

We woke up to this view from our bedroom this morning.

We had hoped to see more deer this morning but we're disappointed. We start off heading west on a track towards the impressive Buachaille Etive Mor which stands guard to Glen Coe.

This path soon gained a little only a little height but was uneven with stunning views to the Glen Coe range.

With the path being fairly level we make the most of it as we are soon to head up the 'Devils Staircase- even the name sounds terrifying! The Devils Staircase is part of an old military passage built around 1750. We get very warm and the heavy breathing would get us in trouble if on the phone. The first section is quite tame but it soon increases in gradient and is a good climb. 

As we gain altitude the views open out and with some serious huffing and puffing from Jane and I we can look back on the path we walked yesterday  in the distance.

Almost at the top we met a group taking a breather so took the chance of them taking a photo for us.

At the top it's 1850' above sea level the official high point on the West Highland Way. But of course we hope to climb Ben Nevis later.

At the top it's said you can see Nevis in the distance but we could not make it out as we have no idea which one it is and think it was behind the nearer mountains and in cloud. The views were almost as breath taking as the climb!

So it's all down hill from now! - almost

As we descend we see the path we have to take meander in front of us.

The last section towards Kinlockleven is rough underfoot but the twisted angles are mostly due to looking at the stunning surroundings instead of the path.

The final part of the descent is steep and follows the route of huge water pipes from the Black Water Reservoir. Ok you would think downhill would be easier than up-Wrong downhill kills the knees and feet with your toes and pads off the feet screaming for help. It seemed to go on for miles and we were relieved when we reach the flat at Kinlockleven. As seems normal for us our accommodation is a good mile off track but the extra mile each way seems worth it as the B&B is super.

Today was short in mileage but boy made up for it in height and terrain. Still back in quite good time to have shower and write the blog. Now to find a pub...  a note to anyone coming to Scotland it is beautiful but I am sure the Scottish breed midges so you stay in the pub during the evening as there is no way you can sit out during the evening or you are eaten alive. 

So we move  onto our final leg of the WHW.

 Thanks for reading and all those who have donated.