6th June 2010 ~ Milngavie - Balmaha

Well we survived the first day and arrived smiling in Balmaha at 4.00 p.m. this afternoon!

The day started at 9.00 a.m. in Milngavie. We started on schedule, as planned. For those of you who know me (Liz) I know you'll be impressed with my time-keeping, Some things, like good wine, DO improve with age!!!! We had our photographs taken at the start and were issued with our West Highland Way "Log Book". The Log Book gets stamped at various points throughout the walk and acts as proof that you have completed the course. A good idea and a lovely keepsake!! As we may never repeat this experience again we were keen to have proof that we had done it, at least once!!

The weather was exceptionally kind to us. Dry and warm but not too hot, thankfully. A relatively good start for us as the first part of the walk is not too challenging. We felt we were doing great until we spoke to a gentleman who is walking from Lands End to John O Groats. Made us feel quite humble as he soldiered on on his own. He asked if he could take our photograph before going on his way. He was travelling as far as Balmaha and we met him in The Oak Tree Inn, where we decided to have our evening meal. Great food and good service. Would recommend this venue. We met a few people on our way ~ two guys who were our pace setters ~ we kept them in our sights and at various points overtook them and vice versa. There was a group of 3 women who were in training for the forthcoming "Moonwalk", an australian couple, living in Edinburgh, who decided to experience the West Highland Way by camping. There was a lovely family at the top of Conic Hill who asked us where we had walked from and we engaged in a small conversation with them before carrying on the descent into Balmaha. We gave details of the blog to all those whom we met and if you happen to be reading this, It was lovely to meet you all!

Our accommodation for tonight, Bay Cottage B & B, is great. We received a warm welcome from Liz Bates who laid on home baking and a much needed cuppa, Unfortunately, due to the heavy rain that started as we arrived in Balmaha, we decided not to use the "hot tub" that is provided. Lovely idea though!! Would definitely recommend Bay Cottage.