LIFETIME of WALKS by DEREK HARWOOD

I walked to Wetherspoons for breakfast, then onto the multi-storey car park to start the car, which it did, successfully. I found the queue for a taxi, which drove me to Blackfold, the start of the walk. I didn't want to leave the car there again because of the logistics of getting the car back to Inverness. Obviously I didn't want to expend any more energy than absolutely necessary. The walking for several days without a break was slowly taking its toll on my feet. They were more sore each day. I met an American pair of male walkers at Blackfold but we didn't chat for long as they were going the other way, south. I walked north along the good walking/cycling track to perfect tranquility. Not a sound of anybody anywhere, only the pleasant sounds of birds twittering. The track crossed several new fences with good high gates to enable the walker or cyclist to pass through the fence line. I was intrigued with the state the loggers had left the area. A total mess. But this seems the norm, letting the twigs and tree stumps rot over time. The way continued straight on with little or no elevation change. This terrain attracts the dog walkers, solitude and easy walkers. I passed several couples with several dogs each and chatted to most. Everyone was enjoying the sunshine. I eventually reached the outskirts of Inverness, but the wide panoramic view didn't materialise as trees were always obstructing their view. There was lots of gorse in full bloom to enjoy. I passed several joggers as I descended into the suburbs of Inverness. I also passed building sites and landscape works. One digger was loading lorries from a huge mound of top soil. The digger was perched on the mound as it got smaller. I didn't have time to see what eventually happened. Did the digger fall over, I will never know. I passed two main roads, but no problem as I used the underpasses provided. I had to wait, with many other pedestrians and vehicles at the Caledonian Swing Bridge, to let several boats pass. It was just a short walk from the canal to the River Ness, where I crossed two picturesque bridges, firstly to an island and then to the east bank of the river. It was a lovely stroll along the fast flowing river, passing some beautiful period houses of Lower Drummond. On the way to the castle I passed some lovely gardens/park, I think it was Bellfield Park. The ascent to the castle grounds was steep with good views of the surrounding area. I took a short walk around the city centre before my customary visit to the Wetherspoons for dinner.

Location Map: - www.streetmap.co.uk, - Start: at Blackford .
Finish: at Inverness