Creagmeagaidh National Nature Reserve, Aberarder.

Garry Loch looked more appealing this morning, the rain that fell through the night had moved away and the weather for the day looked hopeful. But before we could travel too far we needed to stop off at the nearby community hall which had a water tap outside for the vans to use. Donations appreciated.

A beautiful drive alongside Loch Lochy took us to Fort William where we took the opportunity to do an Aldi shop. The store was chaotic. The Scottish lady in front of Angela at the check out thought maybe it was pension day. She was impressed when told we'd just returned from the Outer Hebrides. All that way! And, you've got a good colour, was the weather good? Outside in the car park, a far too large hired motorhome was in danger of wrecking havoc. Wait until you reach those single track roads. It's always a good idea to hire the largest van you can afford. Home is where you park it. At this point on the bonnet of the car behind.

One of our neighbours back at home recommended we visit Glen Nevis. So we did just that. Before setting off on our woodland walk we launched outside at one of the picnic benches, the day now warm. The walk took us alongside the water that fell from the upper waterfall. We walked quite a way up passing the  lower falls, sitting to take in the view. A cathedral of large rocks all around, fallen from the nearby mountains where clouds clung to their flanks. And great examples of Scots pine growing alongside oak, hazel and birch trees. The snow line was so close it seemed within striking distance. How hard could it be? 'All the gear, no idea!' Thanks Marge.

We are heading east now, and have just entered the Cairngorms National Park. Our stop is the Creagmeagaidh National Nature Reserve car park. If the weather's fine in the morning we hope to take a walk out here. There's a chance we may see a Golden Eagle which would be fantastic. Meanwhile a thick blanket of cloud is descending on the mountains around us. It's looking like it could be a cold night.