Day 8 - White Bridge to Braemar

Started early this morning- awoke to another chilly one. At 12:30 am last night there was ice on the tent and a water bottle had started to freeze. In the morning it was overcast- really the first time we haven’t seen the sun since day one. It was cool to hike- long sleeves or coats. William from Barbados was awake with us and the three of us set out at 7:45am. The first stop would be Mar lodge for tea and biscuits. We arrived at 10am to Mar lodge- half our distance covered. Pete from York had slept at White Bridge and joined us for the last stretch to Mar Lodge. The lodge hosts the social tea and coffee for all TGOCers and it is a great meeting spot.

With 8km left we set out for Braemar. It is road walking from here but some wonderful views. The sun was already out, clouds all gone.

As one arrives to the limits of Braemar there are encouraging signs from Gordon’s Tea House- a must stop! We pulled in about noon, had some cappuccinos and lunch, and enjoyed sitting in chairs upright! 

After lunch we parted with William as he was headed to the campsite and us to our B and B. We hit the grocery store and Mountain shop to re-stock our food supplies for the next four days wild camping. A trip to the pharmacy was included for a few medical supplies. 

We did a bit of washing and rested until we met William at the Fife Arms Hotel for dinner. He has been an excellent hiking companion with many rich stories and fun laughs. We hope to see him in Montrose. 

Upon checking in with headquarters, we were delighted to have been left a message from Kevin- our day 1 hiking partner. He let us know he was finished his crossing (insert gasp here) and wished us safe travels for the rest of our journey. Truly an amazing feat!!!

We are reading in our cozy beds for a bit before we awake for our 8:30am breakfast. We ordered packed lunches for the trail. The forecast is calling for rain tomorrow until 2pm and then overcast, dry days to follow. Fingers crossed. 

 
There will be little chance of contact for four days but will update when we can! 

 
Amanda and Kir