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We parked in the large car park in Aviemore. It was the final day of Thunder in the Glens and the area was heaving with elderly bikers dismantling their tents. We headed for the bus stop and took the bus to Boat of Garten, getting off one stop too early, near a bed of pink geraniums.
Boat of Garten blooms
We walked along the main street as far as the post office, noticed the coffee shop and went in for a coffee. Not like us to START OFF off in a coffee shop - but hey ho it's always good to support the local economy.
Coffee shop was almost empty
Caffeine levels duly replenished, we crossed the road and took the minor road opposite, leading past some large stone houses on the way to the woods. There was obviously wealth here in the past for these houses to be built, but not sure what generated it.
One of the humbler dwellings
We entered the woods and overtook a group of adults and children on holiday from Manchester and out for a wander. Then the train that runs in the summer between Aviemore and Broomhill passed. There's something nostalic about steam trains.
Steam train
I took a photo of the lone cottage with cyclists in front and then discovered when they drew level that I knew them. They were also up visiting from Manchester and love holidaying with their kids in this area.
Cottage in the woods
Track dips under the railway
Red toadstools with white spots make me think of my great grandfather who on walks when we were kids hid coins under them and told us to go and see what the fairies might have left. Happy memories. I didn't know then they are reckoned to be poisonous and to have hallucinogenic properties - neither of which theories Moira and I were willing to put to the test.
Fly agaric
Birch woods
Once through the woods we were out into open moorland with blooming heather and views towards the hills on either side of the Lairig Ghru.
Lots of Scots Pine regeneration - not so many views when they've grown!
M on a 20 minute call which at this point had ground her to a halt
Popular cycle track
Imposing Scots pines
Golf course
Metal sculptures
Aviemore blooms
Our route led us to the Mountain Cafe.
Should we or shouldn't we?
Silly question
We fancied banana milk shakes. Very good they were too and a fitting end to an attractive short section (and our first) of the Speyside Way. We'll be back for more.
