Day 13 Rogart to John O Groats

Retrieved M's fleece from pub, bid farewell to Kate of the amazing railway sleepers, and set off at a brisk pace 4 miles down to the A9. We stormed along an udulating coastal road with fine views over the North sea. The sun was strong, the sky blue, and a gentle north easterly blew. Helmsdale, a delightful fishing port, welcomed us for a tea break.

We continued along the coast road, up and down, towards the infamous Berridale Braes. We shot down the 13% winding descent, over the bridge, and climbed steadily up the north side in low gear, a long but easy ascent, in contrast to the Beauly road out of Drumnadrochit @ 15%. Please note, the couple from the pub in Rogart, no walking, cycled all the way nae bother.

So Dunbeath hoved into view, so we stopped at the Spar for refuelling, and sat out in the sun on the stone wall on high overlooking the harbour. Then carried on along the A9, with less traffic, particularly after the Wick road branched off.

After Lybster, we turned NW on a minor road tha ran for 13.miles in a straight line, past crofts, and then over bleak barren peat and heather ground. Steadily climbing, we paused to view some ancient burial cairns, before pedalling on along this virtually traffic free route.

As we neared JoG, we saw the haar hanging over the coast, and the sun was closed off. When we finally arrived at JoG, as the photographer was packing up his signpost and kit, it became cold for the first time in several days. So we had our photo taken, wrote a message in the book in the café where our card was stamped, and had a coffee and scone.

Back to the YH, recovered, showered, and set off into the wind to the pub for supper and a few
pints.

Data:
Distance 81 mls
Ride Time 6hrs 25mins
Avg Sp 12.6
Total 1004 miles
Phew! Done it!
Next challenge?