Day 13 - Fetterosso Forest to Dunnottar Castle

Well, today began at 6am once we awoke - the tent was quiet but the skies looked grim. The rain started within about ten minutes. Anyone who backpacks knows packing up while it is raining is never fun. The bonus - even if all our stuff got wet, we would be finished today and could dry it all out!

We hit the trail at 7:30am. We decided to trek out of the forest as per our original route and hit the roads. Road walking is tough but we knew we wouldn’t waste time navigating either. We saw a forestry truck on the way out and the driver gave us a new route straight to Stonehaven- very helpful. We were also back to cell service and google maps could help today too. We had about 22km today to finish. We expected showers on and off but we were truly exposed to the Scottish weather. We kept going but both said we have been so lucky, thirteen days with rain would have been unbearable!

We were about 5km from the Castle when we were popped into an area called Kirktown. Our first vision was a store whose sign read : Kir town garden centre and restaurant! It was literally a sign! Kitty corner to the building was Kirktown veterinary services. We decided to fuel up and warm up and dry out before our final push. Lunch was amazing and our feet could recover.

We continued towards the castle. It is truly stunning as you approach the castle. The jagged coast line with high cliffs that you picture. It was a trek in to the castle but we made it.

Once we arrived, as per TGOC custom, we walked down to the water to dip our feet into the coastal waters. The difficult part would end up being the climb back out from the castle!!! Our bodies were done and telling us to stop.

We contemplated waiting for a bus but since we would have to WALK to the bus stop, we called a taxi. He delivered us directly to our B and B. We are cleaning up and doing laundry- pure luxury.

Kir and I have discussed our favourite parts of the trip. We have seen such beautiful scenery and met so many wonderful people. We both loved Glen Tilt and Glen Lee. The trek from Braemar to Gelder Sheil is our least favourite part. We have used everything, all the gear we packed. We also had just two cup of soups left from our food stores - good planning.

Our bodies and feet will now get to recover fully. It is hard to believe we have finished. Our total kilometres were about 320km with some turn around and re-routes. This country is beautiful and my trekking partner is amazing! It is a great accomplishment to share with a special person.

PS our closest restaurant for dinner is three miles away, if we can’t order in, cup of soup it is!!!

We will spend a few days touring but can’t wait to see everyone at home. Love you all and thanks for reading!!! Xoxo

Amanda and Kir


UPDATE: After some showering, napping, and laundry we decided to head out for a small celebration.  We are back now after a delicious meal and celebratory cider!!