Not long now until May 9th, Just a couple of things to comment on, firstly the weather up here on the West of Scotland has been fantastic, unlike last year or previous years. Two weekends ago I walked the Kintyre Way as one of my warm up walks for my July charity walk, the weather was so good and unexpected that I burnt my arms, scalp and face, I had no need for my Montane Prism outfit or down sleeping bag, but we all know that the weather up here can change very quickly so fingers crossed it holds out for you all.

Secondly I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a happy and memorable crossing in good weather. Stay safe and enjoy yourselves, I wish I was doing it again this year. Even with an injury last year I had a hoot and met some fantastic characters! I'll be working on the 9th but if I get a chance I'll come over to the GreyGull in Ardrishaig and say hello!

P.S. I'm sorry to tell you all this but the MIDGES have started here in Argyll, pack your Avon Skin So Soft!

P.P.S, I forgot to ask, who all is starting in Ardrishaig?

Hi Billy,

Will be there on the Thursday so starting on the Friday. (No idea where I'm staying yet - in the lap of the Goddess).

Let's hope we have a lovely first weekend.

Good luck all.

Diane.

How was the Kintyre Way...on my list for later this year (post midge season).

Hello JohnBoy, the Kintyre Way was good, due to the weather on the second third and fourth day. It has changed quite a bit since I last did it six or seven years ago, less road walking and I did see a notice board stating that it was now 105 miles as to the 87 miles the previouse time, gone is the long walk on the black stuff between Saddell and Carradale. I did it from South to North this time only because when you reach Southend you are stuck down there until the next day because the last bus left early in the afternoon as I remember, plus the prevailing weather is Westerly, which I would rather have at my back. If you havn't done it before then you should enjoy it because one day you are looking at Arran, loch Fyne, Ailsa Craig and the Clyde the next day you are looking at Islay, Jura and Gigha. I wild camped with the exception of staying in the new Backpackers bunkhouse in Campbeltown, nice clean warm facilities with wifi, a tad expensive at £20.
All the best with your walking this year!

Many thanks for your kind wishes, Billy.

I'm not one of the handful of Ardrishaig starters this year (did that one in 2010). Instead I'm one of the handevenlessful of Kilchoan starters ... but I assume your best wishes extend further north than Ardrishaig.