Epic Windy Wanderings in the Scottish Borders

Craig, Bill and Peter were out around the Scottish Borders scoping out a DofE Silver Exped' route.  An early start got us to the start line around 1000hrs, all set for a big day on the bike.

A cold wind blew on our faces all day long, despite a circular route, but the sun shone and in shelter it was a beautiful warm spring day.   A total distance of 59k took a bit of time given the required navigation, discussions around camp sites and my dropped camera, 2k back after a tumble :(

We followed the Southern Upland Way for parts of the journey and took a few detours to add distance.  The clear air gave great views across the hills and to the sea, and we met plenty of friendly walkers and farmers out enjoying the spring weather.

Scary biscuits!

There are plenty of wind farms in this area and a monumental scar on the hill side at one point with a monster sub-station decimating the countryside for light-years around - sad :( 'You can't build wilderness' (John Muir I believe).  There are hundreds of trails across the hills and careful navigation was required at times - indeed we missed a turn but found a better finish to the route as a result...RESULT!

All in, a great days biking; Craig and Bill's biking fitness put into sharp contrast by Peter powering up the hills and off into the distance.   Big mistake of the day was me forgetting my food - nestled nicely in my fridge all day - and then all of us not having enough food on the day - 7 hrs out on the bikes left us 'hank marvin' by the end of the day.

Reminded me of old Rockhard MTB days where you just went out with a map and found a way around the hills back to the car...we all agreed - a great day indeed :)

The route ahead

Beautiful countryside 

Found my camera :)