North of Scotland meet/w-end

A weekend in April/early May '16.....?





Yes, the Italian Car Day.


I'm thinking maybe MattB, jimboy, MRS....even one or two "hardys" from doon 'ere. Don't know if I'd be doing Orkney unless Mrs Ed was keen on coming along - but then tbh she's probably not that keen on our "meets"

Would make more sense to drive north (scenically) on a Saturday, book dinner and accommodation and return Sunday p.m.. How far up would 4 hrs driving each way take us?

I'm interested. Will depend on my rotation. I'd guess 4 hours from Edinburgh isn't going to get you much beyond Inverness (allowing for traffic). Is Aberdeen the target area?

It's a rough shot in the dark to be a bit more attractive a proposition for the Teuchters

okay, well, as you are asking;

during the day, 4 hours would get us to just beyond Inverness.

Recently, on the return trip from some work, I drove Scrabster (far North coast) to Edinburgh in 5 and a half hours dead. Non stop, not much naughtiness and NOTHING on the road.

Traffic is a big factor on this route. The earlier/later, the better.

an overnight Highland tour, might be more achievable. Maybe we should have a conversation about this at the weekend Ed..?

Ok team...

How does everybody feel about this?

http://www.northcoast500.com/home.aspx

I will be doing this in the Spring. Hands up those who can get away for two or three nights..

Depending how it falls with my rotation then most definitely yes I'd love to do this. Will post my spring time leave periods in the near future.

Wow.

Would depend on a few factors over which I don't have a lot of influence right now....

That's more like it!
Great choice Jim. I've been dying to drive these roads with the Coop.
May would be better for me.

I'll definitely do this with you .
I've driven the route to Gairloch several times as my sister lives there. From Inverness it is a truly fantastic drive . Did it in my legacy Turbo estate in 3 hours 15 mins from Linlithgow one quiet summer evening. Nobody believed me apart from those in the car .
I've also driven the route to Ullapool- Lochinver -Durness and back the same way . Fantastic open, hedge-free driving roads where you can see the road and any other vehicle well in advance, and all accompanied with truly spectacular scenery. You see so few cars that you feel inclined to wave when you see another one. More than happy to drive this route. Stunning visuals and exhilarating driving. Truly memorable.

She's not alone there Simon. I myself - never mind Mrs Lego and my family - find paying to park your car in a field alongside other Italian cars ( most of which are still in production) of little or no interest, especially when there is barely to anything else to do or see at them. There are far better events we can arrange ourselves or attend, that have significantly better facilities and entertainment than the Scottish Italian Car day.

Aye some truly stunning scenery up here. I could be in the offering all things going well. Will not be totally sure until nearer the time.

oh, this is great- i thought this topic had totally died a death in the first week...

so, we'll pencil in the sky; "May" and let that hang and see what happens

Hey jimboy it'd be great to see you- where abouts- "abouts", you based..? I was hoping to pick up a few folk for certain bits of the route local to them...

I've PM'd you DG. Wester Ross is a must for the views/roads. Applecross & the famous pass has to be done.

Hope this comes off as I've said roads/scenery stunning.

If this is after the first week of May after final exams then I'm interested

A big nod for the Applecross pass

How many nights away because the West coast food is to die for & of course refreshments Applecross Inn for starters, the sea food has to be tried. There are soo many stop off places to savour.

I know of some hidden gems, off the beaten track, such as Mellon Udrigle a beach that's just amazing, reminds you of a deserted tropical Island. The water colour is that jade greeny blue.

I have a feeling this could turn into a big event in the coupe calendar!

I have a feeling we may be able to draw upon a few members' local knowledge to assemble a truly stunning itinerary!

This could be really amazing. More amazing than just the 'standard' Northcoast 500.

So, tentatively, I think we are steering into the 2nd half of May...?

2nd half of May would suit me better and spring should have started by then, adding colour to the scenery and longer daylight hours.

The snowball has started to roll!!

Will be in UK April & June but away for all of May so I'm out of this already.
Shall keep watching this thread. Keen to see details of all the best locations because the Scotland 500 has been on my radar for a while now. Best of luck to all involved.

rats!

hangon then- This is why this is a tentative early thread...


April or June- I take it you can't make April, Ed?

Marko what you prefer yourself?

Jimboy- any preferences?

are we moving to June?

I can do May or June. Not keen on April as weather can be iffy(snow) and spring often not quite sprung at that time that far north.

okay, thanks for that, right enough..

more feedback, guys!

I'm pretty easy. I know we Scots get all starry eyed about our scenery, but if you've never been in my neck of the woods, you're in for a real treat....

Oh yes can we add sanna bay in ardnamurchan and then cambusdarch in arisaig... please but if not then its still my 2 secret places

Sanna bay/beach most western part of mainland Britain, lovely place, but if you take this in & further up west, it'll take a few days to cram it all in. Worth seeing that's for sure but a time scale needs to be in place to suit all.

Not preaching, just pointing out the scale/time of said journey.

Hey Rosso!

Welcome aboard!

Can you make it out for a bit next June?

Weekends of 28th/29th May and 11th/12th June would be ok for me if that helps Barney....

Oh count me in... maybe the coupe will be presentable by then

Don't worry Rosso, as long as the Coop can run. My Coop is suffering very badly with lacquer peel & this is not going to be put right any time soon. My beasty has had a lot of money thrown at it lately, the paint job will have to wait...

No need to change anything for me guys but if June works for most people that's fantastic news!
@ Simon. Yeah those dates work for me! In June I should be available between 01/06/2016 - 27/06/2016.

A bit off topic guys, after my shower I'm off out for some food for tonight (I like cooking) Going to head to Dingwall & taking a scenic route round Loch Ness, in the Coop of course, & the sun is shining for a change..

Guys, you may have seen that the club is planning a world tour around mainland UK next year; no details yet but probably summer or early autumn. Please scout any good locations and roads for us! June may be a good time, in which case we might mix and merge with this run.

If you post stuff here or send it to Simon, Barmybob, or me, it'll end up in the proper secret laboratory!

Thanks!

Bealach na Ba is the name of the single pass road on the Applecross peninsula. Look it up, winding its' way through the mountains just like roads in the Alps. Truly stunning, this is one road everyone "SHOULD" put on their bucket list.

Wester Ross has other gems as well. There is one view looking down on Loch Maree a few miles after the Garve turn off, you just have to stop & take it all in. You'll know when you get there.

I could go on but I'll not bore you all.

Jim.

Do I detect enthusiam for this idea Jim

It'd be good to put a passport to a name finally

(old Rab C Nesbitt line adaptation for the uninitiated )

Do I detect enthusiam for this idea Jim

It'd be good to put a passport to a name finally

(old Rab C Nesbitt line adaptation for the uninitiated ) [/quote]

Aye Simon you might just set eyes on the elusive Highlander..
Trust me the pass will be worth seeing...

Balach na Ba is on the list; as is General Wade's road south of Loch Ness and the A82 from Kyle and across GlenGarry. Perhaps a side trip to Glen Elg, if we're that way inclined.

I seem to recall that Applecross is either the steepest or the highest road in Scotland.

Glenelg Inn is a well stocked refreshment stop over..

^^ well it was.......

You know something that the rest of us don't ??!!

Ok team...

Having done the 'finger in the wind' test for an event and time of year...- let's attempt to round down a little bit to a possible itinerary...

A lot of this depends on who has what time available... So, if you are fancying this and think there is the possibility you could attend, can I ask you to state how long such an adventure would last in your mind.
/how long do you want to be away for..?

Revolving around, but not necessarily starting or finishing on, the weekend of the 11th/12th June 2016


1 Dante Giacosa 3/4/5/6 nights? (I could be away for 'as long as it takes')

1 Dante Giacosa 3/4/5/6 nights? (I could be away for 'as long as it takes')
2. Edinburgh 3 nights

1 Dante Giacosa 3/4/5/6 nights? (I could be away for 'as long as it takes')
2. Edinburgh 3 nights
3. Barney 3 nights

Unlikely I'll get away with a longer outing without risking divorce.

I can do up to 5 nights. As for the trip itself..... I would generally prefer to not drive the roads in convoy all the time. I would rather we stagger our start times when we set off and arrange meeting points along the way for lunch and dinner etc. Only because we all drive differently and it's safer if we are not having to either drive faster than we would like to keep up with others, or looking in our mirrors constantly and slowing down to make sure we haven't left somebody behind. And the main reason is the colours of all of your coops are not as nice as mine and you will spoil my view of the scenery.

These pro independence types eh...
Why not let Simon lead. Speed problem solved!
Joking aside, anyone flying down those roads is missing the point aren't they?

I expect at least one of you to have the in car camera set up at one frame a minute for the whole trip...

I'm going for the driving as much if not more than anything else. Bernard
These are some of the best traffic free and exciting driving roads in the world and I will definitely be flying down some of them as they are an absolute joy to drive in any car, but will be fantastic in the coupe.
We'll not be in the car all day and we will stopping regularly, so there will be plenty time to take in the magnificent surroundings. I don't really want to do more than 3 to 4 hours driving in any one day and at least a couple of hours on foot getting some exercise and exploring.

Look after your LE, you're one of only 31 left

For myself I am only too happy to lead from the front, but you'd better all take a full week off work

I'm easy, a whole week might be pushing the envelope though.

Just a thought. Since I'm furthest North, perhaps I could meet Coopsters who are South of me, who may need a day or two to get to my neck of the woods.

Come south a bit and be a pilot Jim

Formation flying is one of the greater pleasures of coupé ownership for me so I'd like to stick with a crowd. Happy to explore by road or on foot. Not concerned about distances or hours behind the wheel, I'll just go with the flow.
If as Neil suggests the numbers increase with owners from the South then I expect accommodation will need to be agreed and booked soonest possible.
Not preferable but I'd even tolerate camping for one night.

all sounds good-

can I ask for an update on the list...?

1 Dante Giacosa 3/4/5/6 nights?
2. Edinburgh 3 nights
3. Barney 3 nights

3 for me please and camping great for us

I could cope with one nights camping and a barbecue at Sheigra beach. I also want to go to the remote Sandwood Bay weather permitting. It's a 1 hour walk there and 1 hour back. Google them!

Don't get me wrong Bernard, I'm not totally against travelling in a coop convoy! The beauty and attraction of these roads for me personally though - is that they are empty and you can often be the only car on them. Travelling in a set convoy( effectively traffic) for several days would defeat the the purpose.
If you simply have a definite meeting point in the evening(as well as breakfast) where we all meet to tell our travelling tales of the day, and optional points on the route during the day, then there are far less delays to the overall schedule. Drivers and their passengers are then free to choose to stop at particular points that are of interest to them, which may not be of interest to others and vice versa. You can also make impromptu stops without every one else having to do likewise. A lot of the time we will naturally end up traveling together on the same piece of road and i have no problem with that.

1 Dante Giacosa 3/4/5/6 nights?
2. Edinburgh 3 nights
3. Barney 3 nights
4. Rosso 3 nights (1 night camping possibly)

I'd be up for Sandwood Marko

Having not managed getting there yet despite saying i would many times. Always seem to find we end up and camusdarach beach but it is beautiful so no hardship there.

Just googled Camusdarach. Yeh! no hardship there Brian. That is one that is now on the radar , maybe on the way up to or back from the meet

1 Dante Giacosa 3/4/5/6 nights?
2. Lego 5 nights
3 Edinburgh 3 nights
4. Barney 3 nights
5.Rosso 3 nights (1 night camping possibly)

Maybe we should just go ahead with planning a definite 3 night trip.
Those of us who wish to do more nights can organise our additional nights separately?

Not a bad idea

Need to go back through the thread and shortlist destinations

Due to the distances involved (for most of us) we should try I think for a good stretch in the 1st half of the 1st day to get up there

Say, lunch in Inverness? Can you recommend somewhere, Jimboy?

So much to choose from, what kind of place/food. Parking in Inverness is a problem. Several Coops would be tricky believe it or not, far from impossible but getting them all together. I would like to make this a good dinning experience for you all. Dores Inn is just a few miles outside Inverness & is one of those places you have to visit & a view that's breath taking on the shores of Loch Ness.

I could recommend going to the village of Beauly just outside of Inverness en route to where we are all going. Village square & all that, good eateries. My local even, not the best Hotel but big car park good grub & a lovely situated. On the way to where we are all headed as well.

Just some ideas, as I've said I'd like to make it a good start for you all.

Beauly sounds better than Inverness I think...

and just beyond the last glut of 'traffic' I would think...

Beauly Priory hotel does good grub & is a step above your usual run of mill places. We even have an Indian restaurant, very very good.

Next year I know but would we be driving further North or staying over night.

Just to point out, at my stage of life I could not manage a tent.. Aye for more than one reason..

If we do the Applecross pass we will have to double back on ourselves to see (as Jimboy has already mentioned) the View down the the A832 towards Loch Maree. A view I could never tire of seeing

Best to see the Loch Maree view, then reverse to the pass. I mean came all this way why not?

Hope none of my posts came across as argumentative. It's all valid feedback and of course everyone should get the most out of this trip. If you want to push on a bit that's cool. First one to the hotel gets the beer in!

Agree, nothing is set in stone and everyone should enjoy as they think fit. Some of it may be in convoy, others not - we can always meet up for meals, pints later whatever.

Is there phone reception in the far north?

(runs and hides.....)

Can live without a phone. Can't live without V-Power or Tesco Momentum.

Agree Simon. Phone reception is reasonably good. I'm happy to go with the flow. Three nights or a bit longer dependant on what's on offer. I don't have to sell this part of Scotland, the problem being there is so much to see...The triple buttress mountain Coire Mhic Fhearchair is amazing, the islands on Loch Maree, sorry for rabbiting on, but anyone not familiar with this part of Scotland will be in for a treat.

I used to travel on these roads a few times a year & I never got fed up with the sights, in fact I would see other things to add to my sight seeing. I'm a bit of a foodie, the grub is excellent in most places & of course there is always that very special meal..

Jim you as much as anyone are doing one hell of a job selling this to me

Simon, I look forward to having a meal in your company & maybe some refreshment of some description & of course the good old Scottish craic. Slange.

Aye likewise Jim, it'll be like Still Game

But who would be Iza???

Or Boaby

Aye Simon, we auld yins need to stick together...
Sure we could find some old slapper that would fit the bill...

So we are looking at a 1st night, somewhere West of Beauly, then team..?

Fair point Bern, it was more a question of coordination if we got split up or in the event of a breakdown....

In Marko's case he might have driven so fast we might have to rescue him from an unexpected ascent to the summit of a Munro...

In the event of a breakdown- we shall all converge regardless I think (hope)!

people could perhaps use the 'glympse' app, which lets an observer see where you are... However, we're a bit far from the event to confront specifics yet. I dare say that might well be to inverse of a 'free drive'..

I expect Marko will have driven so fast that after disappearing ahead- he will appear again from behind!

As said some time away, but securing Hotels/B&B is essential. Applecross Inn is only a couple of hours away from Beauly, dial in a wee bit more for rubber necking at the scenery. Perhaps this could be our first stop over.

This place is very popular & has to pre-booked well in advance. Does this fit in with you chaps.....Just a suggestion by the way.

Look it up gentlemen...

Just for the record, I don't mind sharing a room if that helps anyone.....

@ Simon. For sure keeping in touch is essential. The route and destinations will be agreed and understood by all in detail prior to departure so as you say breakdown should be the only real concern. I have 3 Motorola radios that I'll bring, they've a decent range on the road. If anyone else has some I'd suggest bring and share. Whoever is bringing up the rear should have one to raise the alarm if anyone does have difficulties.
We can also agree in advance that each of us brings various tools or handy items (i.e. socket sets, duck tape, jump leads or whatever) so we can help each other out if necessary.
No issue with pre-booking accommodation well in advance, soon as a few more details are worked out.
@ Jimboy - be careful with that brave offer. Could easily get stuck with someone who snores effin loud! If Rachel Nichols turns up I'll take one for the team and share with her.

Great minds think alike Jim!
I was about to suggest we start out from Applecross. I might come up that way via Glenfinnan/Glenuig then Mallaig and Skye. A longer route I know but far more interesting, and I don't fancy driving the A9 now they have average speed cams on it. I also - like most of us I suspect - driven the A9 too many times.

@Barney. Another great mind! Walkie-Talkies are a great idea. I was intending on bringing a couple as well. I used them last year on the way to Spa with Simon and in 2012. Much easier and quicker to use in car than a phone.

http://www.northcoast500.com/home.aspx

Is the intention to do the north coast route?
As I do not think we can do it in 3 overnight stops without committing to a lot more daily driving than would be comfortable , especially if we do the Applecross pass or stop there the first night. We would need to be much further up the west coast for the first overnight stop to make a 3 night trip more viable and enjoyable. As most of us are in the Lothian area - ideally we would(I would anyway) want to be within 3-4 hours driving time from home at the last overnight stop. That is basically back in the Beauly/Inverness area or the Fort William & Lochaber area if we do a different trip.

Just putting this idea out there....
How about we meet at Ullapool(or ???) first night and then make a more leisurely trip down the West Coast via Poolewe Apllecross,- Plockton/Kyle of Lochalsh - Skye - Mallaig or another route! and finish of the last night in Glenfinnan. Then all head home from there. Or do it the other way?

I am happy to do the North Coast Route by the way

Believe it or not gentlemen you can do this route quicker than you think, the wee spanner in the works so to speak is taking in the scenery & stopping from time to time just to do that, then there's getting the craic with everybody etc, etc. I don't mind admitting I'm a tad excited about all this, it's been a while I've been let loose with other guys to play.

In all seriousness I hope this comes off one way or another. I understand it's next year, but accommodation can't be had on a whim up here as it used to be, times have changed, booking is essential.

I will go with the flow, but obviously a wee bit of planning will have to be in place, such as deposits for Hotels/B&B...

I get vibes the same as myself on this, we are keen that this is a goer & perhaps a yearly event. Many variations can be had, but perhaps we could discus this on our first "bacchanalia"

Jim, I suspect there's quite a lot about you us southerners are not aware of

Aye Simon. There was a time when I was in the oil industry I worked & played hard, those days are a distant memory now, however, perhaps cheek, tongue..ach you never know until we all meet

Aye we could drive it in one day Jim, but as you have said the pleasurable things get in the way




Another reason it could take longer than we think

That's hilarious...

Yes, Marko, you might have a point there- tempting as it is to meet Jimboy on his home ground first, I'd LOVE to come up through Fort William/Mòrar/ Mallaig, ferry to Skye and then back to Applecross from there...

I was going to let enthusiam build a bit more before trying to herd folk towards specifics, but I think the option of starting 'high' and going backwards/forwards is too good to rule out...

And with regard to whether we are doing the whole 500- I must admit to something of a ruse. Obviously people can do whatever they want and join/leave/rejoin the group as they wish, but in fact I put the whole 'North Coast 500' thing out there to whet people's appetites for a general trip in this part of the world.

I think the best part of this trip is undoubtedly the West Coast section and although I will very happily drive the whole thing (no hardship), it may be the case that (as you say) with the time that most people can afford, and dialling in the sociality I think we are all hoping for, that we spend three nights on the West Coast alone.

Those who wish to, could continue with the mission after the 3-nighters depart...

Thoughts..?


P.S. Bern- can you post a link to the type of Motorola RF handset that you've got? I've done similar things in the past with a pair that I borrowed and they are VERY useful. I imagine, if they are similar, we can buy additional handsets to add to the group...

We'll all need call signs!! It'll be like 'Convoy'!!!!? (Maybe not)

Correction and apologies, it's a pair of Binatone Action 950 radios I have. Field tested around Europe in 2011. Current version is the 'Action 1100'. <<<Amazon link here>>>
They're analogue PMR446 which I assume will be compatible with the same from other manufacturers.
Top tip... The supplied batteries are junk, better to replace with eneloop pro and bring some spares.

Copy that good buddy, for sure, for sure. Watch out for them smokies....

Aye can't resist. If my playground is going to be past.. some good eateries in Fort William or Mallaig. I could meet you Southerners at the Fort'

As regards route... I've no complaints if we don't do the full 500. Will go along with the crowd...
Wife and I have friends in Arisaig and we're very fond of the Cnoc-na-Faire B&B. Highly recommended though doesn't have many rooms.
Traveling from the Lothians I would say Arisaig / Mallaig would make a reasonable target destination for the first night.
How about someone posting up some Google Map links illustrating proposed routes?

Dante - have you looked at the price of the Mallaig ferry these days?

The road from Armadale to Broadford is improved in recent years but unless you want to visit the MacDonald centre there's not a lot of reason; I'd argue that a better Skye round trip is Kyle - Broadford - Sligachan - Portree - Rigg - Staffin - then either around the top or across the Quirang - Uig - Borve - Edinbane - Dunvegan - (possible diversion to the Talisker distillery at Carbost, coincidentally passing the Michelin-starred but hideously expensive Three Chimneys Restaurant) - Sligachan - Kyle.

Recommended places to eat: Sligachan Hotel, or the Skye Pie Cafe at Culnacnoc.

Not that I've spent a lot of time driving around there, of course... some excellent roads, a few single track but still huge fun, and the best two corners on the island at Drynoch.

I really like Talisker!!! That's a must if any bargains can be had.

Let's firm up the dates asap. then we can check stopover availability on our possible routes. As Jimboy has stressed already -we do need to move quickly as accommodation is limited in some areas and is booked up well in advance. This could may limit our route choice.

At the moment I am good for for most dates in June apart from the11th to 14th June.
I can do dates before June 11th but need to book days off at work ASAP.

Sunday Mail..seven day magazine supplement page 25....

Sorry, I haven't got that- can you expand, Jim..?

Barnacle - you are right: what you describe makes better sense in terms of routing, but I was trying to reflect my own desire for an initial Arisaig / Mallaig pretour (see what I did there?!) which has already been mentioned. I like little ferry adventures and once you have gone that far, I like to go onto Skye and then off at Kyle than to drive ALL THE WAY back to Fort Bill before going north again.

There are of course advantages to both and maybe this is where we'll elect not to do this, or split teams and then rejoin? I'm easy. Just keen to get everyone out for an adventure...

However, never mind all that- are we looking at a date change?? Marko you can't make that weekend then, is that correct?

So we are now looking at days revolving around the weekend of 4th & 5th June 2016??

Is that still cool for everyone??

I also can't do 14th which is Tuesday. I'm watching the itinerary with great interest, deferring several folk's greater knowledge of the area

As I said earlier - I doubt I will be on this trip unless it turns out to be part of the round-the-world-UK tour. I think that will be later, though.

Sunday Mail news paper the magazine that comes with the paper (seven days) look at page 25, all will be revealed....

By the way I'm easy with dates apart from August...Belladrum festival.

Like Jimboy, I'm easy with dates too, and as has been pointed out to me tonight, perhaps we can go the week after instead: 18th & 19th..?

Marko, Bern, Rosso?

Yes I'll go for that weekend of 18th, 19th

^^ Even better.

I'm in UK taking leave 1st to 27th inclusive. Distance from family during first or last couple of days wouldn't go down well but otherwise you can safely assume anything within that window will suit me fine. I say that with complete ignorance of the school holiday calendar of course!

that's great then

revolving around the 18th & 19th then...

18-19 June should be good for me too

well done, terrific...

Now we're motoring

Around the long weekend of Thursday 16th June to Sunday evg. 19th June then:

1. dante giocosa
2. Lego
3. Barney
4. Rosso
5. Edinburgh

Jimboy?
MattB?

Yeah, should be ok for me.

Around the long weekend of Thursday 16th June to Sunday evg. 19th June then:

1. dante giocosa
2. Lego
3. Barney
4. Rosso
5. Edinburgh
6. jimboy
7. MattB

ok team,

how does this feel?

Day 1-
Thursday 16th- early start to drive up A9 (sorry Marko) to potential meet with our East coast contingent at Aviemore/Inverness and then to Beauly for lunch.
Onwards to 1st night's accommodation at Ullapool.

Day 2- Friday 17th-
choice; either a free day for a drive up to the Quinag/highlights of the upper West Coast, as listed by others (but not listed here, at the moment),

OR, a further trip North on the A835 for a night further up. We could of course split resources here, to meet up again later..?

Day 3- Saturday 18th-
Drive South from Ullapool via Mellon Udrigle on the A835/A832 and down to Applecross via Torridon, then down to Kyle of Lochalsh.
Onto Skye for the ferry across to Mallaig. (£29.05 for 1 person in a Chris Bangle designed 90's icon) Half hour crossing.
Ferry times on Saturday; 11:30, 13:00, 14:30, 16:00, 17:20, 18:40
3rd night at Arisaig/Mallaig...

Day 4- Sunday 19th-
Down A861 to Ardnamurchan & Sanna Bay (maybe?). Back up to Fort William for lunch & final blast off, and then South on the A82 / A85 / North (depending on your start point)

this is a skeleton 1st draft concept. Feel free to tear it apart or add to it.

Spotted that in a cafe today Jim. Like the article I've actually done it as far as Sheigra in a Motorhome. All the more reason to get organised soon - now that the route has been highlighted in the press.

Thursday 16th June to 19th ok for me. it will be great to meet up.

Dianne

Wow Dianne, you're a sport!

Around the long weekend of Thursday 16th June to Sunday evg. 19th June then:

1. dante giocosa
2. Lego
3. Barney
4. Rosso
5. Edinburgh
6. jimboy
7. MattB
8. driley

Cool You are on the list Diane
Look forward to meeting you.

Marko

Hey Dianne!

that's amazing! fantastic that you can make it!

it's bigger than the Italian car Day already!

Thank goodness there'll be someone to stop us arguing

There might be a bangle in a Bangle




Is it worth giving the local press a tip-off, maybe we could be filmed as the only cars that can actually enhance the Northern Scottish scenery

I filled in a would-be North Coast 500 club entry form?

they wanted to know what I'd expect from a club if there was one

(I said discounted fuel!)

they might be interested!?

Like the idea of staying 2 nights in one place but it makes Day 3 (Saturday) way too long a trip. By the time we make lunch and scenery stops, ferry etc. it will be 6-7 hours before we get to Mallaig

Oh dear you forgot to shoot yourself.

It's just an outline and it can be refined - instead of staying in Ullapool the second night we could head further south to reduce mileage the next day.


Oh wait...

I get it Simon

Fair point, Marko..

RAC route planner makes Ullapool to Mallaig (via Torridon & Applecross);

161 miles & 5 hours 5 minutes.

admittedly it routes us back down the A835 to Garve before going South West on the A832 again and misses out the coastal route. And makes Applecross a spur rather than part of the route.

This in turn would miss Mellon Udrigle and Loch Maree

so, confirming Mark's observation;

Ullapool to Mallaig,

via Mellon Udrigle beach on the A832, via Poolewe & Loch Maree, Torridon, Applecross, Lochcarron & Kyle of Lochalsh,

is indeed 185 miles and 6 hours on the head

OR

we could miss Mellon Udrigle, go back South East from Ullapool to Garve on the A835, then West on the A832/A896 again to Torridon, through Sheildaig and then South over Applecross, back East past Lochcarron A896 and down to Kyle & Skye/ Mallaig

166 miles & 5 hours 19mins

we keep the coastal lower route but miss out Gruinard and Poolewe

Whatever way we do it- once you add stops and breaks it will be a 7 hour trip at least. Far too long for fun. We will need to either- stopover much earlier, move south on second night as Simon has said, or start the first night south of Ullapool

2 hours driving with a leisurely lunch in-between, stops for sightseeing visits , walks, tea and coffee stops etc. can add up to a 5 hour trip quite easily. I think we need to limit the actual driving time between stopovers to 1 to 2 hours.

As an example - Our round trip to Moffat last year was around about 100 miles for most of us, and that took up most of a day.

fair point- good example

standby for Day 3 revision/ please contribute alternative concepts...

I certainly will go with the flow, but for those who have never done the Applecross pass will miss out big time. Just saying.....

PS Could we have one night where we could have really have the craic & bit of this that & the other & set off a bit later the next day after a hearty breakfast & blethers what went on the previous night....

Point taken, Jimboy!



Obviously not everyone is coming from Edinburgh- but this is a little ready reckoner of major figures for people to absorb...

Edinburgh to Ullapool- 4hrs 10mins / 210 miles

Ullapool to Plockton (direct)- 1hr 53mins / 83 miles

Ullapool to Plockton (via, Sanna, Applecross)- 3hrs 53mins / 134 miles

Plockton to Mallaig (Arisaig)- 1hr 43mins / 33 miles (!)

Mallaig (Arisaig) to Edinburgh- 4hrs 2 mins / 184 miles

Doh! I never figured in South from me travel times....

Aye senior moment & all that.

sorry Jim- that wasn't a direct response to you!

Well, the 1st line was obviously- but the figures underneath are for people to grasp what a re-jig of Day 2 & 3 might involve...

Or if this section is over-long, stop short of Plockton in say Strathcarron where there is an 11-room hotel. Lochcarron only has a 2-room B&B.

Ok paring down again, is there mileage in bypassing Ullapool, turning left off the A835 onto A832 and heading for Poolewe for night 1 ....

As far as Applecross is concerned do we forget the loooooong trek round the coast and just "do it" as a spur and lunch there on Day 2 or do we forget it altogether...

So far we seem to be ok in principle about Day 3's modest mileage and ferry fun

Just my thoughts but Applecross pass & beyond is probably the best scenery of the trip, it would be a shame for those who haven't seen this part of Scotland to miss out.

I will however go with the flow....

I'm with jimboy on this.

also.... the plan of getting to the Gairloch/Poolewe on the first night is a good one ). Then next day down to Plockton via Applecross pass is a more civilised driving time of 2.5 hours. Plockton is a lovely place to spend an afternoon and an overnight. Then onward next day via Skye.

I know there is a lot of sights to take in & I've already said that I will go with the flow what ever is agreed, my only concerns are securing accommodation. Stating the obvious, once agreed, bookings should be made sooner rather than later.

I certainly don't want to jump in here, but I'd like to see this road trip be a success.

Plockton accommodation seems cheaper than Strathcarron and more choice. Fine with that.

So a possible might now be:

Day 1

Edinburgh-Poolewe c.4.5 hrs, picking up MattB and jimboy en route, Dianne at Poolewe?

Day 2

Poolewe-Plockton via Applecross, coast route

Day 3

Plockton-Arisaig via Skye (this I am liking )

Day 4

Arisaig-home via Crianlarich/Callendar

That sounds great.

To my ears...

Let's try and firm up by the end of the weekend and as jimboy says we shouldn't delay in booking accommodation. Ferries may have to wait until the next summer season's timetable is issued, but perhaps due to their sail frequency that's not such a problem?

Hum Head as we like to call you in the trade.

Yes looking good.

Might I suggest the last night that we go on to stay Glenfinnan House Hotel on the shores of Loch Sheil. It's a fantastic location and venue with excellent food in the restaurant and also food served in the bar . Great craic and excellent musicians usually frequent and play in the bar. Bit of a family haunt since the 1970's though I personally haven't been there for a good few years. I'm pretty sure I can get us a good rate at the hotel and arrange some group activities, and there is a boat cruise down the Loch from right outside the Hotel as well as the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct and Glenfinnan Monument. One of my brothers is a local now and lives just up the road at Glenuig, so pretty sure he will hook up with us also.

My Sister lives in Gairloch which is just next to Poolewe so I will get her to give me info on which Hotels to use (or not) there.

"Hum head"?

Well it's got to be better than "noise-boyz" with a 'z' that service people used to use at NL

*cringe*

facts & figures from Edinburgh-

(apologies to those not coming from this neck of the woods)

Day 1

Edinburgh-Poolewe c.4.5 hrs, picking up MattB and jimboy en route, Dianne at Poolewe?- 4hrs 43mins / 229 miles

Day 2

Poolewe-Plockton via Applecross, coast route- 3hrs 19mins / 102 miles

Day 3

Plockton-Arisaig via Skye (this I am liking cool )- 1hr 53mins / 41 miles

Day 4

Arisaig-home via Crianlarich/Callendar- 4hrs 5mins / 169 miles

Dates Added!

Day 1 Thursday 16th June

Edinburgh-Poolewe c.4.5 hrs, picking up MattB and jimboy en route, Dianne at Poolewe?- 4hrs 43mins / 229 miles

Day 2 Friday 17th

Poolewe-Plockton via Applecross, coast route- 3hrs 19mins / 102 miles

Day 3 Saturday 18th June

Plockton-Arisaig - 1hr 53mins / 41 miles

Plockton Glenfinnan via Skye 2hr 19mins / 59 miles

Day 4 Sunday 19th June
Homeward

Arisaig-Edinburgh via Crianlarich/Callendar- 4hrs 5mins / 169 miles(for those in Edinburgh Area)

Glenfinnan _ Stronsay approx 9hrs 31mins
Glenfinnan - Inverness approx 2hrs
Glenfinnan - Beauly 1hr 56mins
Glenfinnan - Linlithgow/Whitburn/Livingston approx 3hrs 10mins
Glenfinnan - Edinburgh approx 3hrs 25mins


We don't all have to stay in the same place on the Saturday night as I believe several of us have preferences where to stay.
We can always all meet up on the Sunday for lunch before people start heading home.

None of this is set in stone yet and can be adapted if needed.

Yes, no need to convoy home particularly but Sunday lunch would be good.

I'm not fussy where the accommodation is on Saturday night - it was only Bern's suggestion that flagged up Arisaig. Looking at the map again Sanna Bay is another fair chunk of driving on the last day viz. 56 miles (105 min) there and the same back again.

How about Killin for lunch on journey home, setting for 39 Steps (Kenneth More version ) - it's under 2 hours from Glenfinnan.

Beauly to Poolewe is only 65 miles 1 1/2 hrs just a wee drive for me on the first day. Obviously last day I will be going in the opposite direction.... The Loch Inn Fort Augustus for lunch, overlooking the canal staircase locks. the food is brilliant.

I meant in the area as I wasn't intending going home that early Simon.
Though I have nine months to decide and may change my mind several times.

I prefer the 1935 version.

Nothing stopping you coming down and meeting us a bit further down the road Jim, perhaps near where we might also be picking up MattB?

Was envisaging perhaps Kingussie or Newtonmore......not sure about Aviemore, is that good to stop in?

Someone mentioned Mallaig before me. Much as I like the area, driving between there and Fort William is very dull and it's ground I've covered before so it's not essential to suit me.
I think if there's going to be a final night blowout then all being within staggering distance of each other makes sense. However if space is limited I'd quite happily continue on home and skip the potential to embarrass myself!
I'm easy whatever is agreed.

Aviemore for me personally is not a place to stop & get a Highland experience. Very busy, food & Hotels are nothing to write home about. At holiday times it can be hoaching with families & their kids.... far too noisy .

I'll bide my time Simon & meet you all at Beauly, nice place for lunch....

That was my hunch Jim.

We'll make a coffee stop earlier then and see you at Beauly

I going to decide over the next 9 months where I stop for a cuppa

That's why you're coming with us to help you make up your mind

I'll research the g/f places

I'm going for the roads, driving, camaraderie and scenery Simon!
I'm perfectly happy with my girlfriend thanks !

Yes, sorry, that's lost on me too?

"g/f" places??

lunch stop has to be the Mill at Blair Atholl or maybe that place a house Of Bruar, I think. Both have car parks.

There's not much after that doesn't require 'leaving' the route a bit...

Hey Barney- can't believe you don't rate that route back to Fort William! I think it's ace, after you get over the sticky 'one priority lane round corners under bridges' bit near Arisaig...
Did you say you knew folk who had a B&B there? Are you able to make a recommendation ?

Although we may need MattB to confirm this, if he was coming from the North East, he would appear either at Aviemore or Inverness- there's no link across further south.

(I like the Robert Powell version...)

P.S. It's official - from this day forth, I shall be known as 'member #1447'.. Got my card last night!

'Great Food'???

Glutton Friendly

Sorry I much prefer driving the A82 stretch just south of Fort William.
For accommodation near Arisaig take a look at cnoc-na-faire.co.uk.
This is a stunning place to stay, immaculate and tasteful inside and out. However, not many rooms and they no longer serve dinner in the evening. Breakfast is excellent! Alcohol is available self-service as they run an honesty bar in the lounge.
Have also stayed at the Arisaig Hotel which has much greater capacity. Room furnishings are a bit old and tired but it's OK for one night. Food is decent enough and no complaints about the bar! Not sure if they're keen on one night bookings though, would be worth asking.

The Arisaig Hotel recently (2 or 3 years ago) changed hands to be run locally.
Not sure they'll have changed the furnishings though, since... I like the pier and the boats that you can walk out to there....

You might have to draw lots for who you'd bunk up with Bern as there's only one twin room, the other 5 are doubles

just have to go for top & tail orientation...

I have a large enough bottom to warrant a double for myself. Besides, still hoping Rachel Nichols will show up!

We still need to get confirmation or comments from Rosso, MattB and Driley on the proposed route.

I'm with you Bern - I think the road is better south of Fort William.

Yeh pretty happy with the route as its got some of my favourite places in it and Applecross which we have on our to do list anyways.

Sanna is sadly missing but that is a bit of a trek... although we could be easily persuaded if anyone wanted to take a detour on the Sunday.

As far as accomadation is concerned are we trying to all stay at the same hotel or just seeing if we can all find accomadation nearby?

Hey Rosso, regarding Sanna- I think I may be heading north again on the Sunday, instead of coming back, so there might be a tour on top of a tour there!

I will either be staying with my brother who has just built a new house last summer and moved to Glenuig. I haven't seen it our him for 3 years. Or more likely I will be staying at Glenfinnan House Hotel. Sofi and the boys will be coming up by train to Glenfinnan on Friday night or Saturday morning and staying there. The Convoy can all fit in the Glenfinnan House Hotel and I have rooms on hold for all of the Coupe convoy if you want to join us. I need to confirm if I want anymore rooms within the next 10 days so let me know folks.

I was thinking of organising a bit fishing(from boat) on the Loch and/or Clay pidgeon shooting while there if anybody is interested? That goes whether you stay at the Hotel or not.

Funny, I mentioned this option to Mrs Ed yesterday and it met with a better reaction than other options

Hi everyone, I can do three nights and as the most northerly coop that will also involve one night stay and two ferries each way getting to meet all you southerners. I will meet you in the Inverness area or thereabouts.

I think the suggestions for routes all have their attractions and will go with the flow. Scotland is beautiful and as has been said some of the driving is fantastic. Convoy or not to convoy? Convoy on just one or two short routes and then go it alone on the longer journeys seems a good compromise. I really want to do one convoy just because it will look and feel so cool.

I have to say though I draw the line at camping, not for me.

Local info
All accommodation will have to be booked in advance, there is little or no chance of finding anything as you go. Most restaurants finish serving very early 8 or 9 pm. Scottish drink drive laws are stricter than England

On that happy note, look forward to hearing more plans as they get firmed up.

My geography!!! , is Inverness the further north you are planning. If so, I'll drive further south and meet up earlier.

Fantastic

We'll be coming up the A9 and meeting at Beauly for lunch then going on to Poolewe/Gairloch.

Come up the A82 & turn off at Drumnadrochit back road to Beauly. The A9 is not at it's best, road works, delays & the rest...

You might even see Nessie...

We'll see how the roadworks are next year then, Jim- fair point....

Personally- I'm happy to continue North to Inverness to meet Dianne (and. MattB?) and go over from there...

Yep as said if we're picking up Matt B it would be better coming up his side of the country

Jim, the A9 upgrade & all it's speed restrictions are on for the next foreseeable years...Trust me you would all be chewing your steering wheels with frustration....

yes, it's true, Jim..

I'm just trying to meet up with those coming South and West, at a convenient point in the country, just before Beauly- it's certainly not the fastest route anymore, but as my 'location' might suggest;



<<<

i'm always happy to do it!

Drove it 5 weeks ago, and oddly enough, with the average speed cameras, not only do you not overtake anything, but nothing overtakes you! it's very relaxing. You end up by yourself the whole way up!
You can get the 'choons' on, and gaze at the hills (and the speedo)..!

1. dante giocosa
2. Lego
3. Barney
4. Rosso
5. Edinburgh
6. jimboy
7. MattB
8. driley
9. Space reserved for jimbob13

Yeah, I'm not fussed about driving to meet you really - it's going to be a bit of an event so lets go with the best route. I'll not be in a coupe anyway.........

Right fellow Coopsters. Been a few years since I ventured West. Wife & son away, I thought I'd take the hack for a spin over the pass to Applecross.

I had forgotten how extreme some of the corners/bends are. In all honesty not impossible to take the Coop over, but it must be in good health & if lowered too much I fear you may do some damage. 1st gear several times.....

Weather was not great, so not much photos. Hopefully I'll get my son in law to post these up.

Well done, Jim

PM sent...

I did Applecross in my 16, years ago... it's interesting, but not impossible!

Slightly off topic but looking through my camera photos, there are some from Skye last year when the wife & I spent two weeks there, last summer after her Auntie died. I did the whole Island & one day in extreme heat climbed up to the Old man of Stor, amazing views, took me an hour & a quarter with many rests getting nearer to the old man himself.

The last few hundred yards took me 20mins because of the wee rock fragments. I mention this as this is another must for the "bucket list" Many more places on Skye perhaps for the future.....

I've run that...

(Although I needed the inhaler halfway through!)

Yes, that's fine, I can meet up at Poolewe, please put me on the accommodation list for a double, hubby is going to join me,.

I'll be heading north too, so tour on tour then?

I hope so Dianne, that would be great-

3 days won't be enough to for us..!

Really looking forward to this. Just meeting up with everyone and seeing the coops is going to be great, I am happy to go along with the route suggestions as we have the chance to drive these roads more often than some. The Glenfinnian house hotel looks really good too.

Hey Dianne-

You'll have to make a giant Tupperware full of that ACE tiffin from the business to bring down (not to be shared, you understand) and I'll see you with with cash...

THAT, I am looking forward too!

Ha ha, I'm sure I can bring some supplies along. Glad you like it so much.
Mind you, if you are eating all the tiffin, I'd better bring ginger and apple cake for everyone else?

Let's not get carried away...!

We need to get total numbers for Hotel room bookings etc. So please fill in asap and indicate what room type you need. Single, double etc.
.
1. dante giocosa
2. Lego + 1 (Twin Room) (Family Room on 3rd night)
3. Barney
4. Rosso
5. Edinburgh
6. jimboy
7. MattB
8. driley + 1 (Double Room)
9. Space reserved for jimbob13

1. dante giocosa
2. Lego + 1 (Twin Room) (Family Room on 3rd night)
3. Barney
4. Rosso + 1 (Double Room)
5. Edinburgh
6. jimboy
7. MattB
8. driley + 1 (Double Room)
9. Space reserved for jimbob13

As I've said earlier, I'm willing to share to save costs....

Looks like I might be in the firing line for this Jim but not if you're a smoker

But if Mrs Ed is coming up for the Sat. evg then you're not sharing with her

Jimbob13 just finalising.....

How exciting...!

I'm thinking of a spin-off thread called: 'things I need to do to my car before I feel it's ready for the North of Scotland meet'!

Separately- we should maybe coin a title for this mini tour- bearing in my mind, if it's a success we could attempt a repeat in the future, and if the route was slightly different then the name would have to still work....

Jimbob13 will do his own accommodation thang but would like to join in the fun

Scottish Bender + year?

This is really building in my mind- we could get stickers and tour T-shirts!!,


Sorry, did you say 'bender'..?!

What have I signed up for??!!

How about, "taking the high road". For name of tour


(.or just for Jim" The tiffin tour")

Might sound a bit 'English'

I'm not a smoker simon, but I've been described as smokin' in my time....

As someone said earlier....

The tiffin tour!

I love it!!

Any graphic designers amongst us? I need the broad profile of a front wing, blended in with the West Coast...

Mount it on a spoiler? Parts Wanted section.

oh wait...

Well let's see what the cost differential is between single and twin room.

No way am I sleeping above the engines and any misbehavin' and your coop's getting sabotaged

Oh, sorry about it sounding English ??? . I know the origins of the song are from the Jacobite rebellion, but I wasn't there. Not guilty.

No!!

Ed is pulling your leg, Dianne...!

1. dante giAcosa +1 (double room)
2. Lego + 1 (Twin Room) (Family Room on 3rd night)
3. Barney
4. Rosso + 1 (Double Room)
5. Edinburgh
6. jimboy
7. MattB
8. driley + 1 (Double Room)

Mrs Ed is unlikely (at this juncture) to pootle up for the Saturday night - instead she'll probably go visiting recently-returned family and grandson from U.S. in Leeds. Fair enough

So how about if we take one night's accommodation each and book/reserve it?

Happy to take night 1 in Poolewe....

for everyone?

Not sure what you mean Simon?

Please indicate what room type you need i.e. Single, double, twin etc.

Yes please, confirm 1 double in Poolewe for me. Have to ask Ed, why are you still iconing me with gritted teeth, bit scary. Glad Jim is on my team, is he bigger than you??

only in charisma...

a double for me too in Poolewe!

Sorry, too quick!

I meant me Dante and you organising one night each since we're probably the loudest shouters so far In other words not loading one person with all the work....

My preference - don't mind if Jimboy wants to go the twin room route, I'm ok going along with that too if it's a saving.

@Dianne - funny, never really saw that as clenched teeth but now you point it out ....

I am actually built like Nadolo except I can fit under floorboards

accommodation- either that or I'll take on the remaining nights;

I'm not sure Dianne has even been to some of these spots

perhaps I'm better placed...

It was Marko's post I was referring to

I have all my accommodation sorted ! You guys are too slow

The main purpose of my previous post was to help get an idea of the numbers coming, so as to move everything along and get accommodation sorted as quickly as possible . There are enough of us to negotiate a better rate at hotels, but you need to know numbers before negotiating, and the Hotel needs to have that number of rooms still available. I also appreciate and understand that people may not want to stay in the same place and would rather organise their own accommodation.

I'm not organising the accommodation I'm just posting some info and options

I'll probably be staying with my sister the first night in Gairloch so I've not looked into anything there. Though I have eaten in the Hotels there and in Poolewe. Gairloch and Poolewe are within 10 mins of each other so accommodation can be secured in either or both without it being a problem meeting up. If you want to stay in Poolewe you better move quickly as it is very popular and there is limited accommodation.

The second night I will be staying at the Plockton Inn which I have frequented before and which currently still has accommodation available for us all on that night. Plockton is small and has enough little Hotels and B&B for us all to stay in different places and meet up easily. It is also very popular so you need to book soon.

The third night as I already said I will be at the Glenfinnan House Hotel on Loch Sheil. They do still have enough rooms held for us all but I have to let them know by Monday. There are more accommodation options at Glenfinnan including a former train carriage. My lads might like this

If anybody would like me to book them accommodation at the Glenfinnan House Hotel or indeed Plockton, please let me know by the weekend and I will be happy to do so.

Fair play to you Lego, so are we all booking things ourselves?

thanks Lego... I'll sit down with my better half tomorrow to make a decision and let you know.

Forgot to say that Glenfinnan House Hotel can offer us a discounted rate of £65 per person B&B for a single room or a double bedroom, Double bedrooms at single occupancy would be £80 B&B and the discount applies if we take 6 rooms or more. A reasonable offer considering they are normally full on that weekend and throughout June anyway.

The Plockton Inn is not willing to do a discount as they are always full throughout June. They said we should book soon where ever we chose to stay in Plockton, as Friday nights book out months in advance. There are plenty of other places to choose from. Book soon wherever you choose.

Ok can you book me for Plockton and Glenfinnan please and if the twin rooms are a deal cheaper then jimboy will share the room - better check it's not a "double" lol

Jimboy I'll phone up Poolewe/Gairloch tonight and see what the deals are

I'm up for Glenfinnan as well please & plockton. Thanks.

Keep in touch Simon...

I'm following this thread but am over 2,000 miles away. Gimme the numbers to call or just book me in. Lol. Single room, no sharing & preferably with a bar.

Want me to reserve you in the Poolewe Hotel as well Bern? Single room inc breakfast £60.

Plockton and Glennfinnian for me too, double please

Thanks Dianne

Just to confirm, that's me booked in at Poolewe and the above?? If I need to do anything just let me know. Thanks for organising it.

Ok,

Barney, jimboy and me all reserved in the Poolewe Hotel Thursday 16th June

Think the hotel might have a bar

Simon you are a star! Many thanks.
How soon will they need payment? Would be easier for me to settle up in a couple of weeks when I'm back home.

It's reserved only with my card, payment deducted only on arrival so no hurry Bern we can sort it out then

Dianne you have PM

I have PM'd everyone asking for your surnames for Hotel Bookings at Plockton and Glenfinnan. PM me back please.

Just to confirm are we taking the ferry at Armadale to Mallaig?

Marko we have booked Poolewe Hotel and B&B in Plockton. Just looking for accomodation for Glenfinnan area

Pm'd you

Yep but it's too early to book these yet. Will see if I can find out when that's possible.

Jimboy's latest pics of Applecross and the pass...

Apologies for the pics' weather was not the best, that's my only excuse. Thanks for posting them up. Still can't get fed up of this part of the country.......

Been on this ferry loads, you tend to turn up & board...

Last time we looked at it - we considered coming home that way, just for the craic - it still had turn up and board but there was no guarantee you'd get a place; it was looking pretty full. But (a) there was no-one left on the quay and (b) the next one's in an hour and a half.

That's me booked Poolewe & Plockton!

Glenfinnan tomorrow..


Just after this tour, I'm planning a reshoot of the famous Italian Job opening scene

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=2zg8PWdVWM0

(but without the fireball) on roads North of Ullapool. Featuring this bridge:

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kylesku_Bridge

27 shots, 2 minutes, 55 seconds. Might take more than an afternoon....

All booked aswell... Poolewe Hotel, a beautiful b&b mins from Plockton and Glenfinnan booked too. Cant wait

Neither can I!

Well done Rosso-

Maybe we should start a live count down timer to the event that we can keep going on a thread somewhere?!

Good Idea !
Here is a rather crude one!
I do have a really small cute looking timer, but it is slightly over the 100 characters allowed for a signature

I do not believe it!

Does this mean we'll keep having to wait for your posts to know how long we've got??!

haha

No you can have it as your signature since this trip is your idea.

That's really disconcerting that as I go back through the thread- it's the same time, all the time, on your posts!

I've never heard of 'US Mountain Time' incidentally...

Maybe it's time you did

Anyway I sent PM'd you the code link if you want to use it.

It's too big for my liking.

Can't you just change it for him




If the time is on your reg. plate I can't read it

Ooh! A track-shot signature change!

I spent 10 minutes on the phone trying to book Glenfinnan today. I shall try again tomorrow...!

Going up to Glenfinnan next week as they are doing a 2 nights for 1 offer until November

Wow! Lucky you!

You could get some more advance footage, like Jimboys!?

I was thinking of getting clues for a Treasure/Scavenger Hunt for our tour next year!

Winner finds a distillery?

You might have an advantage?

Weather is amazing up here at the moment, crystal clear skies & all views are unhindered to see. Hope it keeps this up for your stay next week Marko.

Yippee, that's us confirmed for Plonkton Inn and Glenfinnan.

Me too Jim
Thanks mate.

Hi Simon , have just confirmed 17th and 18th nights can I just double check you have reserved a double in Poolewe for me and Paul for 16th?

Thanks a lot Dianne
Your English friend [i][/i]

Aye indeed Dianne, rooms reserved for jimboy, myself, Barney and you (double)

Don't worry. Sassenachs aplenty on this trip!

I don't even know what that means?!

Voici

Excuse my stupidity and lack of patience to read 5 pages ha ha
Where and when is the meet and how soon does it need booked,quite ken and also have another Facebook coupe friend
Thanks

Thursday 16th June - head north via Beauly, picking up other coopsters, overnight at Poolewe.
Friday - o/night at Plockton
Saturday - o/night at Glenfinnan
Sunday - home

but that's basically a framework and some folk may have variations on that.

Best to read the thread to get the gist.

Hello Kerr!

It'd be great if you could join us!?

Inside - a load of cars trawling the "Scottish Route 66"

Hello Kerr

The more the merrier, great if you both can join us.

Hello Team 'West-Coast '16'!!!

Almost time to wake up!

Only 124 days to go...

Start polishing now.

I've certainly got a little list of things to be confronted before the time comes. Just had the outer NS CV boot and tracking done last month.

Hands up for ' FCCUK West-Coast '16' T-shirts...

Ok, one for me

Haha! That's all the motivation I need!

awakened

That is great news, Rosso...

If I can work it out from the iPad, I'll try and incorporate some pictures from 'that' issue of EVO from late last year. (That Ed included for me earlier in the thread)

They did a great spread on much of the route that we are doing and the photography is terrific.

excellent looks like a good read

OK people I'm aware that there's a few months to go before the Highlands are roaring with the sound of Coops, but any hints tips what we should take in the likes of our toolkits. Anything else we should be thinking of would be a bit of craic to the countdown...

Nearer the time I will need actual numbers on who will be requiring a meal at the Priory Hotel in Beauly so I can book a big enough table. Good to stick together. The food is very good by the way.

Let the count down begin.......

Ooh well, Jim, we're none of us as young as we used to be back in those heady days of planning, I mean maybe just a wee trip up to Crail and back is all we could manage - oh and we'd need a wee cup of tea as well.......







WAKE UP ,WAKE UP ye doddery auld git, listen to the man....he says
"Beauly" "eat" "huge table" saucy wenches and yes,





.

Perhaps I've jumped the gun here Simon, perhaps the really good weather has spurned me on to be a bit excited about the coming trip. Sorry about that....

Tbh we were just thinking down here it was a bit quiet on the thread but it looks like you've "re-booted" it to coin a phrase

To be honest Simon, a wee while back I was quite ill & other personal things all added up to me holing in over part of the winter. The Coop required some attention & now that is sorted, with the lovely weather here, clear blue skies, I pumped up the tyres on the old beastie & went for a blast yesterday, always puts a smile on my face.

Looking forward to seeing all the other Coops & of course their owners. Today as I tap away on the keyboard & look out the window, lovely clear blue skies again. Cup of coffee, get dressed & off in the Coop to buy a Sunday paper. I may take the long scenic route...

Again I'm a little early but I'm a bit animated at the moment. Just for the record some of the roads that we will be driving on lend themselves how shall I say for those that haven't been in this neck of the woods before, spirited driving may cross your minds & initially the roads are pretty much deserted, but beware, every now & gain the feds show up & it's not unusual of speeds of well in excess of 100mph. that some drivers are being caught out.

I own a Coop & I've obviously driven these roads, I've been lucky....


Stay lucky chaps......

'Lucky' is my middle name...

Modesty prevents me from revealing my own personal best on the A9

Good to see you are excited, Jim- it'll be good to meet you

106 days to go...

You know the A9 is covered in 50mph average speed cameras nowadays, right? That personal best of yours will stand for quite some time.

Ha! yes, I do know that Poprock!

Jimboy was pointing it out last year... I have driven it since, many times.

yes, they've ruined that road- who needs safety eh?

maybe I could start a petition to get just the duel carriageway section at Drummochter unrestricted- like the German autobahns...


SERIOUSLY though, there's quite a scandal that the proposed flyover-exits at Birnam & Dunkeld have been put on hold. They only did it at Aberfeldy, which allows you leave the carriageway and go right, without having the turn right across oncoming traffic.

Let us hope that the restrictions save some lives- I'm sure they will.

My forum visits are few and far between at the moment but it's not due to a lack of interest.

Massive apology to Mark. Not forgotten I owe you some cash for one of the bookings. If you're available this weekend I'll nip over to settle up?!

Meal in Beauly sounds good so please count me in. I'm happy to stick with the pack for most of the run. Love coupe convoys!!!

As regards tools etc. I'll bring jump leads, a standalone jump starter, two small socket sets (great for boost hoses!), some duck tape, tie wraps, a torch, one pair of radios, a 5L petrol can, chargers and cables for mobile phones + AA/AAA batteries. Also packing an extra large Saltire and some half-nude pics of Nicola Sturgeon in case of confrontation with pro-independence nutters!

If possible, can we produce a Google Map inclusive of the agreed detours that will be followed by the majority? I think it would be helpful to get this pre-programmed into the satnavs, especially with consideration for folk who will sometimes go it alone.
Example: Google Map

Well done, Barney!

I wonder if there is some clever app that we can get, which would show those subscribed, where everybody else was...

Maybe that's a bit much?

That's quite a toolkit though!

I'll have to have a think, myself...

I know that Ed has invested in radios- we'll need to do a headcount for who will have them- I will get a set also then.

100 days to go!

Reading in the local rag that there will be North of Scotland car convoy around the full 500 miles in May on behalf of the pro Scotland lot, the month before our jaunt. Thank goodness we'll miss that, it would seriously clog up these roads.

Crikey really?!

Is there any affiliated marque, Jim?

Or do they just all have Saltires painted in the roof? (A bit like the General Lee..!)

May 14th apparently Jim, a convoy of cars, no idea of numbers, but at a guess there'll be well into double numbers, enough to spoil our jaunt anyway...(he says selfishly)

The pro independence group were not available for comment the paper stated.These type of events usually descend into a bit of state. As this will be a couple of days thing, I can see drink will be part of the event. I'm just guessing at this by the way...

Over 550 people (230+ vehicles) signed up already, with time for more to join apparently.

Holy moly, didn't I just under estimate numbers. That lot will really clog up the roads for sure. As an old cynic I foresee a few bumps & scrapes.

Given that it's a bunch of pro independence die hards, I'm sure they will all be polite and courteous.

Hi there!

Looking to join you for the Glenfinnan stay on Saturday 18th and return trip section on the Sunday if that's okay?

Glenfinnan have a room free but was there talk of a discount for Coupe group?

Dee

Dee, great you can join us even if it's the last part. Look forward to meeting you and your coop which it seems to some is only good for consigning to the flames

You might find this post informative from way back - you could always try and sweet-talk them into a discount........

Booked for Glenfinnan so see you there!

Hey Dee,

that's terrific!

welcome along...!

Will be nice to meet a few newbies since the last time I was involved!

Woken up!!!! Quick drive round today. Beautiful sunny day here in Stronsay Orkney. After winter clean and polish planned for next week
Counting the days to Poolewe.

Hey Dianne!

That's great! - I was wondering how you were getting on...

Good effort!

just a quick taster, for those not so familiar with it- I came South down the A9 yesterday

http://i340.photobucket.com/albums/o323/jimfpritchard/image_zpsvykpzixm.jpeg

http://i340.photobucket.com/albums/o323/jimfpritchard/image_zpspknd9nfz.jpeg

67 days to go!

Off for service and MOT on Tuesday, can't wait for road trip

Anyone coming further north? Probably staying in Inverness for a night after Glenfinian, then across the Pentland Firth, if anyone wants to join us.

Best of luck Dianne! Good to see you getting girded up

I stay in a wee village called Kirkhill D, 8 miles north of Inverness, we can arrange something if you want when we all meet.

Let's do that

How exciting!!

(As it happens: I've just driven the A9 end to end in the last couple of days, and I passed (what I assume was) the Toyota MR2 owners club, going South at Helmsdale.
10 of them, of all generations (cars as well), heading South.)

Oi, stop wearing it out, my suspension's not needing any more testing!

(You'r not kidding, Ed!)

Any chance yet of a final route plan for the trip with a best guess meet up time at the accommodation stops/ eating places? Wondering what time to get to Poolewe for example?

Ooh, give us lads a chance to pass round the brain cell Dianne

Ha ha, Ed. It's always a bit of a planning exercise for me to get us and the car down South as Mainland Scotland is called here.
Didn't mean to give you brain ache (much ).

I haven't yet got it, someone else still has the cell....

I feel a planning-evening coming on, Ed...?

(Just after I've got this back bumper back on!)

Yahoo!!! I love imgpop!!



Although, a cursory glance at RAC routeplanner reveals (from the Orkney ferry destinations)-

Aberdeen to Poolewe as 4hrs 2mins and 177 miles

Or

Scrabster to Poolewe as 3hrs 33mins and 165 miles

Did the service & MOT go alright, Dianne?


Was the plan, that we meet Jimboy at Beauly for lunch, and then continue with the mission to Poolewe in the afternoon? Are we looking at an initial meet up at Inverness before this then?

How many are central area that could meet for the route to Inverness?

We have an initial convoy, as I see it, of

Lego
DG
Rosso
Barney
Edinburgh

We can sweep up jimbob13 en route (10.00ish) and possibly mattB late morning depending on his shifts.

To make Beauly area by lunch and pick up jimboy we'd need to set off by 0900 at the latest I think to allow for a coffee stop. Meet up at the usual place this side of FRB 0930?

jimboy can you recommend somewhere scenic for lunch where we can all park and enjoy good grub/service?

It's around 1hr 45 mins to Poolewe so we could easily be there for the late afternoon to stretch legs, check in, hae a pint etc

I will be up there already and so will be joining you at Inverness...

So you'll have placed strategic cameras en route

Yes, they are already in position- they are yellow and in pairs over the road...

Arf....


Don't forget to paint hatching on the corners

Don't need to- you'll see what I mean...

Just have a wee look at the route. From us in Motherwell google estimates 5hr42 to Beauly... might be able to shave a little off that but its a Thursday so roads will be busy and would have to accommodate for time between stops.

That's stopping at the forth bridge
Aberdeen to catch MattB
Kirkhill for jimbob13
and Beauly for jimboy

route

It would be about 2:30 before we reach Kirkhill for jimbob13. That's if we set off from the bridge at 9:30.

How does that sound?

Ah, you've factored in "nursery" pick-ups

That route is quite a dogleg and if we've got 4 days of driving I think it should be kept to a minimum to not get saddle-sore!

I was thinking along the lines of jimbob13 and mattB driving westwards to intercept us, esp. as mattB is not yet certain. Or go as far as Forfar to meet them both then cut back westerly to continue up the A9.

What do you think?

certainly i'd rather be on the west side going up. So whats your route from leaving the bridge?

From FRB to Perth then onto the A9.

I'd rather get this part of the journey done efficiently to make more time oop north.

I just need to know time arrival in Beauly & numbers, so I can book a table for the scoff...

And on that note... I've just called the Plockton Inn to register my credit card. Are we dining there in the evening? Table reservation is included for guests but would be helpful for them if we can advise a more specific mealtime prior to arrival. I guess it would benefit us too if we're going to discuss Marko's blistering pace over a fish supper!

2 for us Jimboy

If MattB coming from Aberdeen we could probably catch him at Carrbridge

Barney were not staying at the Plockton inn but if it was okay could we reserve two seats? we are booked for a b&b just 3 miles down the road from Plockton but we are booked for Poolewe and Glenfinnan.

Put me down for 1 Jimboy. Rachel Riley isn't returning my calls.
Hey Brian. Would be nice if we can all eat together. It's another one of those details we all need to agree on sooner rather than later. I'd be happy to book additional tables.

Aye it would be good if we could all eat together, even if our first meal at Beauly wasn't that substantial ..saving ourselves for the night time courses....

Sorry Jim, wasn't attempting to detract from lunch in Beauly - which I'm also looking forward to btw. Just thinking about the end of day group reflection, especially as alcohol is likely to be involved!

Thanks Barney its great your going to make it... will you be there for he 4 days?

I fully understood where you were coming from Barney...night time courses.....

Yeah 4 days Brian thanks to the kind peeps on here. Simon booked me a room in Poolewe. Marko did the same for Plockton and Glenfinnan. All systems go!
@ Jim, might have to put some Glencadam 15 in my hip flask.

I've got "3 hours" from FRB to Beauly...

Add 1 hour for coffee stop and linking with jimbob13 and mattB...

Realistically lunch at 1.30 if folk can wait that long?

Would you be ok with that Brian as you've got the longest haul?

Means FRB 0915 for 0930...


Edit.....there's definitely a voice missing here

Marko !!

We can come across the Pentland Firth on the 15 th stay the night in Inverness so can join the group from there on the morning of the 16th. Then onto Beauly and Poolewe if that's the agreed route. Just where and when to meet in Inverness? Good to see that brain cell is moving round quickly now boys

Still waiting on MOT and service, my mechanic got stuck wrong side of the Firth by bad weather. He did send his tech to collect the car from off the Stronsay ferry, with instructions to take it to his home garage, too special to leave in the workshop. That's proper appreciation

Simon you wont ever hear me complain about driving the coupe

Yes where is Marko? maybe in his man cave!

That's the spirit!

I was on the boat myself on Momday morning Dianne- it was pretty heavy! They cancelled the later one in the day...

I'll probably meet you in Inverness first then...

Why don't you meet us in Beauly Dianne, can't see any reason to tackle Inverness! Jimboy will give us directions to the diner

Point taken

Knowing Marko he has a cunning plan which he will spring upon us all of a sudden........

Does he know we're leaving a day earlier

Maybe he's leaving a a day later to give us all a chance.

That sounds a good idea Simon, will meet you and others in Beauly and join up with Jim in Inverness as he will be there like us.

Right chaps & chapesses, when you hit Inverness you want to head for the A862 hugging the Beauly firth, quite a pleasant scenic road. A good starter for your eyes....

It's apparent from my last few posts I've lost touch somewhat.

Beauly lunch at 13:30 sounds just right, as does a muck-breakfast at the bridge.
Re a nothbound coffee stop, how about The House Of Bruar? Roughly halfway, pleasant and with a generous number of parking spaces.

Revised Google map: Highland Coup Day 1
Includes Jim's A862 suggestion and I'd really like to enter Poolewe via Dundonnell / A832 to see Little Loch Broom.

Already looking like a long first day for Rosso!

The House Of Bruar is fine with me

Oh the more miles the merrier... maybe P can drive for a spell if she can reach the pedals.

One essential via point -> 36 Old Perth Rd, Inverness, IV2 3RH.

Could be the last opportunity to get decent fuel until Sunday afternoon!!!
We might also be able to get Tesco Momentum in Dingwall just off the A862.

Is Tesco Momentum; super plus??

Tesco's Momentum is supposedly 99 RON, as is Shell Nitro +. They're the only fuels heartily recommended by the legendary Tweenie Rob who remapped my car.

Ooh! 'Full thrust'!

We won't be driving 'like that' on this trip though, will we?

Only to catch Marko!!! . Quite right though, going slow means I can spend more time appreciating my car and the scenery.

In the hope this helps someone with their sat nav, Highland Coup Day 1 locations are:
- McDonalds @ Forth Bridge: EH30 9YJ.
- The House Of Bruar: PH18 5TW.
- Shell (Inverness): 36 OLD PERTH ROAD, IV2 3RH.
- The Priory Hotel (Beauly): The Square, IV4 7BX.
- Poolewe Hotel: IV22 2JX

Oh, that's terrific Barney!

Well done- Thankyou for sorting that out...

OK, Beauly filling station sells Gulf premium, probably your last chance of petrol of your choice of any spec. So that's it as far as I know. Again I'm like a wee boy again, heading out in my motor car.... Here's to the combustion engine, her's to the roads, here's to our Coops.....ach I'm getting a wee bit carried away. Friday & me & the wife have started early... Emotionally my job can be draining at times. I'm honestly looking forward to meeting you all.....

Pssst guys! We're going to have to keep jimboy away from the bar....

Oh Simon, you have no idea what to expect....

That's a bit far from the back seat Brian

Looks good Bern

at "muck-breafast"

So perhaps we could after all meet DG and Driley at that Inverness filling station ......

Jimboy, how do fuel prices in Beauly compare with Inverness, and is the Gulf premium 97 or 99, or higher?

Simon the petrol is home made I will venture into the back woods & risk my life regarding how volatile & price. If you don't hear from me tomorrow, you will know I've paid the ultimate price....

Absolutely Simon, the Shell station would be a great meeting point. I noticed on street view it's right next to the Raigmore Motel which has parking spaces aplenty.

OK Simon I'm back, whew! I had to stop the locals drinking the stuff to get the information you require.............Kidding Can't help self at the moment.

Right, Gulf super unleaded 98 ron £1.14.9 per litre.

Thanks Jim, it sounds like any further out we'd be paying silly money for that sort of grade. I tend to put 97 in mine so I'd see what Inverness Shell that Barney suggests are offering in comparison.

Where's the smiley for 'tight-fisted' when you need it

Inverness shell v power is currently £1.17.9 Simon.

They're giving it away!
Just taken delivery of my new Dod Tech LS470W dash cam to record the journey.

Right, don't drink too much of the stuff Jim, your Gulf seems to be the one!

However it would still be good to meet up with the guys on the outskirts of Inverness and create an impressive posse to invade Beauly

That sounds like a plan Simon, a posse of Coops coming into Beauly will be an impressive sight & sound....

I'm beginning to suspect I'll have to drop out of this.
Still going to be at the Scottish Italian Car Day, so I'll come and say hi to whoever is there.

Nooooooooooooooo! Hope you reconsider.

It does sound as if we're getting a bit rowdy and we haven't even got Marko and family chipping in yet

There's time yet, perhaps a compromise will emerge

I do hope that all the excitement is not putting you off Jimbob. If truth be told there was a time but our schoolboy humor is all talk...

Yes, know the Shell garage, so can meet there when you have a TOA. Now staying in Inverness on 14th, 15th and 19th. Got to make the most of civilisation when we get off island. Shopping Lucky to get a room at all, There is a Rod Stewart concert at the football ground on the 16th. Have to confess if I could have got tickets .... Car or Rod would have been a tough choice, but car trip would have won out.

Sad news, she failed MOT, coil spring, so waiting for parts
Unlike all you guys, can't do it myself, plays havoc with the nail polish

This shouldn't be a problem to get hold of but if so post on here

Sounds like you have some serious potholes up there but you should notice a difference in the ride!

Hope you get it sorted D. I'm in a bit of a pickle myself, known for a wee while now, coolant leak which I've located, wee hose top of heat shield, but I've also no brakes. Fluid leak somewhere dripping right down from centre of engine. Hopefully a mechanic will be looking into this at the end of the month. (busy man)

Trying to put a brave face on things but in reality, every time I jump into my hack, I see my sprinty looking at me in the rear view mirror. Hey ho.....

Thanks for offer of help, should be Ok, fortunately my friend's son has his own garage which specialises in high performance cars, so lucky to have him up here.
It is not uncommon to have a few suspension problems here, I'm usual more worried about the clearance in the middle of the tracks than the potholes. We do have proper roads too though.

Oh dear, that's not good at all, no brakes a bit of a drawback. Really hope you get her fixed and can get back on the road soon.

Coolant leak now fixed. Easy at that, the difficulty was tracking it down. Sunny day here so spent some time on the old girl. Lets hope mechanic can work his magic with the brake fluid leak....

Ah, that's all great.

It's all coming together. Thank heavens I haven't got anything to sort out.

Hangon! What's that in my BATH???!!!!

Hey you beat me to it

I've done camcovers in the dishwasher but never bumpers in the bath

You know you can wash the car outside Jim? Will take ages bathing each panel!

don't do it Jim... it will rust

You've no idea lads...

The real problem was the bonnet in the sink. I took the window out in the kitchen as it wouldn't go through the door...

LMFAO! I think you just made my night. Brilliant.
And Simon. You didn't?!

I actually saw this blatant piece of cleanliness a few days ago and threatened to post it, forgetting that DG has now mastered the art of imgpop


But it gives a whole new meaning to "drive-in carwash" ..

Now then,

Everyone needs to see this- or as much of this as they can stomach,

Had we planned further North, we'd have seen all of this, but as it is, it does include good footage of the Applecross pass and many things we will see.

Ignore the cars and soak up the location & photography...

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUhKhQP4PBo

Good find Jim.

And The first road view you see in the video(and at 2.04)- you will miss if you take the alternative route to Poolewe via the A835. It's not by chance that it's the first road you see in the video. I've seen it and driven it several times and won't be missing it this time. No picture I have ever seen does it justice, it is breathtaking.

@ Jim - Excellent video.

@ Mark - Can you revise the map and repost? I've never visited the area so don't know which routes are the most scenic. It is important to be very clear and agree in advance exactly where we intend to go, hence the use of Google Maps.

Just removed the Dundonnell bit.
This was the original route. Though they both end up at same place so I don't have a problem if you all want to go the other way. I'm ultimately going to Gairloch so it would save me around 30mins driving and you get to see that view down to Loch Maree.

Via Loch Maree and 20 mins or so quicker to Poolewe

The A835 made sense as the alternative route means we'll be covering a lot of the same ground on day 2, albeit travelling in the opposite direction. I do hope we intend to stop now and again to take in the views and take some photos.

Well done everyone- thanks for that Mark- I didnt know exactly where that was and I think it's important we do that bit! Which, without your input we might have missed.

Thankyou for taking that video in the right way.

Yes- photography- I think we might need to discuss that Bernard- I've been experimenting with a timelapse app over the last week, and I've fabricated a modified Tom Tom mount to hold my phone. The footage is getting better and better actually, but it would be nice to co-ordinate some kind of strategy... (Given your recent purchase)

Jings crivens & help ma boab! It's winter up here.....

Glad to see spirits are high though.

Well done chaps, great mod

Good to hear from you Marko, stop giving us scares

We've had snow here too Jimboy, amazing the change in temperature. Hope it warms up, I've bought new camping chairs to bring along in the hope of absorbing a stunning view one afternoon.

Re cameras, the dashcam records 1080 and I've put a 128GB card in. Will back up on an evening so basically every minute of the journey will be recorded. No problem sharing but can't promise you'll appreciate my taste in music!
It has a time lapse feature but I'd prefer smooth, real-time video. Come to think of it, I have an older dash cam you can borrow though it is lower resolution and 4:3 ratio. Quite watchable nonetheless.

Erm, I'm old skool, such gadgetry & electronic wizardry is way over my head........

I agree Bern, A835 makes perfect sense on paper. The A832 is a truly great route so I'm sure you won't mind driving part of it again in the other direction. I only just noticed today that there had been an amendment or I would have pointed it out sooner.

LMFAO! I think you just made my night. Brilliant.
And Simon. You didn't?!


Language, you know there are ladies present and Jim is very sensitive tee hee.

Dianne, press the Quote button on the post concerned, and the post will appear in your reply box with appropriate suffix and prefix

Took me a while to work out that you hadn't started your post off with expletives

Is 'flippin' an expletive?!

that's right (thanks Dianne), I am sensitive...

But I can let it all go over me, knowing I am 52 days away from eating that amazing tiffin again...

Haha as opposed to LMFAO. Thanks for the tip, next learning point, how to post a photo of my coop here.

I haven't forgotten, I will bring tiffin, keeping it should be no problem, the way the weather is going we won't have to worry about it being too warm, more like, did we forget to pack snow shoes.

another thing-

'call signs'. once we get the radio's sorted out, we'll all need 'handles' as they say in CB land.

I'll go first, mimicking the colour of the car, I shall forthwith be known as 'Red 1" which is a bit Star Wars too...

but, feel free to have anything you like, like 'Maverick' or 'Ghostrider' or something like that....

Simon... Rubber Duck?

Anyone recommend walkies?

This is what you want...

You take one of those in advance DG and we'll 'ook 'oop near the filling station in Inverness.

Rosso - rubber duck??

Hope that's not rhyming slang, don't want to upset Dianne and DG

Bee
Bumble
Granpy
pianoman

perhaps.....

Oh guys, I am so upset, someone's keyed my car in the garage where it was having its MOT. It will be repaired but probably not before trip, God, can't tell your u how I feel, I have loved her from new, for 16 years and she was pristine. Got to get the ferry tomorrow over to Mainland to confirm damage. Police have big handprint from car, but said initially they wouldn't process it as damage could be under £1000 but mechanic threw a wobbly in the police station so think they are going to do it.
I so wanted her to be in tip top condition for the trip, I know I shouldn't cry but I am

WHY??????? wouldn't anyone do that???????

Oh crap! Dirty "barstuards" no need for that at all.

Good heavens Dianne! That's incredible! Is that on mainland (Orkney)??

I genuinely thought there was no element like that anywhere up there- that REALLY surprises me.

I'm very sorry to hear that... I can't believe it...

Is there not a reputable body shop in Kirkwall you can draw upon? I can make enquiries myself actually...

I just thought yellow and convoy

Very sorry to hear that Diane... Ive been there and really cant understand WHY what goes through someones head to do that.

Can these be used in more than twos?

Matt our guy, says there is a body shop he trusts who are really good, they are busy and she can't be booked in for 6 weeks. Yes, Mainland Orkney, in the garage which also has the taxi office in it, manned all the time, unbelievable

Sorry to hear it happened to you too, hope you got a good repair, it's a really horrid thing for anyone to do for absolutely no reason

It's Jealousy I'd say.


Hope you get it sorted quickly.

The hotel we are staying in on our last night of the trip was featured in The Guardian last week, as was a photograph I took.

Glenfinnan

My Pic

Thanks Marko

I wouldn't blame you a bit for shedding a drop or two Dianne, that's just awful Is it all round? Really hope they catch the big/little sh1te that's responsible.

I guess so if you tune into the right channel?

"Convoy" had me laughing, what sort of a gang do you imagine we are?

There'd be nae hooses left in the N of Scotland!

Dianne that is devastating news. Truly makes my blood boil. Incomprehensible why pathetic, lowlife rejects do such things. They aren't fit to draw breath.

Not sure yet what damage, couple of long scratches and maybe some other smaller ones. Got to go across to Mainland Orkney tomorrow to have a look and make sure everything gets repaired. Really wanted her looking sharp for June but now really disappointed. Over initial shock at least.

Re radios, are they PMR446? That's the type I'll be bringing along.

Hear, hear, makes me sick

Barney thanks I'll check them out aswell as the binatones. Do you know if each coupe one that that would work just swapping channels?

The Binatone 775 Jim posted are PMR446. As are the 950 and 1100 models. Should all work with each other nicely on the same channel.

I've got a couple of Binatones that Simon and I used when we went to Spa. So we should have enough to go round everybody now!

These are Binatone Terrain 750 "long range" (to be tested...) model 1040927

Oh right, it's to do with UHF range......

ok an hour later when I found the instructions yes they're 446's point 0 something after

To set the record straight they actually belong to me, I think Jim must have broken in one day and spotted them when he was looking for another bath to clean his front bumper.

You know it's true....

(Whilst eating an omelette...)

Whats the general thoughts for our Friday? Are we heading to Applecross for a stop then from there to Plockton?

And Saturday down to Skye down to Armadale for Ferry and on to Glenfinnan?

Id certainly love a stop off at Camusdarach Beach

There is NO WAY I'm contemplating going near a kilt for this !!

Dianne's upset enough already, I wouldn't want to make matters worse


Camusdarach Beach with that

But possibly in arctic furs....

Sometimes it looks like this too...

actually out of all the times we have been only once has the weather has let us down although today it might be looking like your shot Barney.

I'll stop at the Applecross Inn, the sea food is outstanding. Well worth a stop....

Looking forward to Applecross... been saying we would go but never got around to it.

You'll not be disappointed Rosso. Believe it or not this place is considered all around the world as a sort of mecca of the seafood world/scenic place.

Might not be a bad idea to book in advance then if we all agree....I'm happy to sort that since I don't seem to be doing much else except dig Farecla out from under my nails

Applecross Inn for fish ( please book us two places) and Camusdaroch beach sounds great, The kilt does not, I've had enough trauma for awhile as you say

Just because your scratches will come out with Farecia!!!! Mine won't, full rear body respray, they got both back panels so the boot lid and rear is being done as well. Though to be honest it doesn't look as bad as I thought it would. I am still very @@&&&! though

Will the coupes make it around Scotland answer to Italy's Stelvio Pass?

Aye Simon book a place for me.

Goes without saying I'd like to join the crowd. How do we stand now for pre-booked meals? Seems we've got a few agreed already. Certainly a good way to avoid disappointment.

Sorry, thoughtless of me!

Applecross Inn Friday lunch

1. drileyx2
2. jimboy
3. Barney
4. Edinburgh

Two for tea here too

A separate booking?

Oh my oh my, I can feel a health kick coming on after this adventure.....

Sorry Simon just us two thanks. How's the farecla coming along?

Oh I thought you meant you were staying for "tea"...

Farecla in between the snow showers....pfff.

I'm hooked though, even without the recommended strong light (such as a head torch) shining on it to check if the striations are disappearing, I think it's an improvement. Time-consuming though; wash, dry, Iron-X, rinse, dry, clay bar, rinse, dry, Farecla + elbow grease, buff off, wax, polish !

Passer-by yesterday recommended a professional bufferer for about £40 to do a really good machine job, but I'd never live it down

I suppose there is a machine which will do this without leaving the swirls one is trying to remove....

Megs dual action orbital, pads and a selection of polishes and glazes. Or pay for a proper detail!
Actually I'll be doing a lot of this polishing myself as I intend to touch up some of the horrendous stone chips on my bonnet. Share your frustrations with the weather Simon!

What do make of this as the Meguiars one is playing hard to get...

White-out one minute, clear the next with hailcloud hiding behind the building until I start waxing - then whooosh!

I'm far from an expert on these things so tend to go with forum consensus (i.e. detailing world) and recommendations / guides on sites like Polished Bliss. A quick search has yielded little for the DAS6 but there is much love for the DAS6 Pro on detailing world, in fact they've done several group buys already! Probably a good sign.
One comment I found that makes a lot of sense is "cheap machines with good pads are OK but not vice-versa".

Bernard's hit it right on there, Dr C...

How do you fancy going halfs on one of these-

http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acatalog/kestrel-das6-dual-action-machine-polisher-cat10.html

I was just about to take the plunge this week...

(You could keep it inbetween times- to use on your horns..)

AND- we could bring it with us in June to get the least of Dianne's damage of her car...

This stuff needs to be in a separate thread guys

Indeed

That's thoughtful , but after all that food, do you think any of us will be able to bend

Ha- that's true, Dianne..

I'm somewhat reassured that you don't sound 'as' despondent now as you you did after the dreadful news the other day.

Paintwork aside- how does the car feel, after it's once over? Did it get the service as well as an MOT,?

Was it Craigies, you went to?

Just got all the parts,and should have been fitted today, we use Matt/tec who are based in Craigies, Matt runs his own business from there and worked for Fiat for many years, so really appreciates the coupes and is very knowledgeable. The car is staying with Matt just in case the company he wants to do the paintwork manages to get a space. It is not parked in Kirkwall though, safe in his home garage. I will pop over for visits and run her round after the service to check all ok.

That's great to hear of a sort of plan towards success

And very encouraging to hear there is someone with that kind of knowledge on the mainland

Could be useful for a future Coupé trip even further North!?

Keep an eye out for Attadale rail station, tonight channel 4 at 8pm. Paul Merton hidden stations. On the road to Plockton.

Thanks for the heads up on this, I wasn't even aware the program existed.
Myself and Mrs. Jimbob really enjoyed it.

Bump. My post from last week that everyone ignored

Ok trip is definitely on for me/us now. It was and is was a bit complicated and expensive with lots of car stuff needing done, with Sofia and Michael coming up by train to Glenfinnan on the Saturday to join Lewis and I, Lewis then going on School trip Sweden a few days later then Sofia going to France the week after and then Michael and I joining her the week after that. Got headache just writing it. I will need to book into a hotel in Gairloch/Poolewe as my sister is going to be away on holiday then.

Apologies for not acknowledging the links

But excellent that Sofia and the lads have given you a good slap to get your act together

And that Silver Streak will be roadworthy again

Thanks Simon. I forgive you all. You were getting excited about walkie-talkies or drivie-talkies.


The Silver Dart

Nothing to forgive amigo, you will just be relegated to the back of the convoy for ever and ever

I apologise too and I did read the article... was that you in the photo?

Oh Marko I am on the look out for walkie Talkies but I don't want to be getting you in trouble by your kind offer of Simon's walkies

I'm glad its all steam ahead for you for this

They're MINE!!!



You don't know how much truth there is in that

No I took the photo No idea who they were!

I haven't a clue what's going on with walkie-talkies
Sounds like there are enough to go round so I'll be happy to leave mine at home. I'll be out of range once we are off the A9 anyway

What page is this quote referring to ?

might have been towards the end of page 14

Still
I am none the wiser about the walkie talkies.

Simon can you post a de-crypted message in plain engkish and explain!

Blyffkgqiuig fit?

Oh, that's very kind, Rosso

If not- I shall invest...

A couple of pics and a couple of vids from my visit last year. Sorry no road or car shots.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=...e=3&theater
Glenfinnan from Viaduct
Steam Train at viaduct aka Hogwarts Express

A still Loch Sheil by the Hotel.

Can you get in at the Poolewe Hotel Mark?

I think Mark has family he is going to rely on in Gairloch..?

You missed a post Jim




Not sure Bern, I will give em a call later.
What hotel is it again ?

Poolewe hotel <<<---- link
I never got round to advising them what time we would like to eat. Brian needs a table for two as well.
I'm on my way back to work, currently in Frankfurt airport. There's a good chance my forum visits will be infrequent for the next 4 weeks...

Good luck Bernard

Official tour stickers: just finalised

Window stickers I hope!

Yup!

Top man. I may break my own no-sticker rule on this occasion!

Me neither?

I hope magnet; to go with my pro independence one
Does it have to have the crap Fiat logo/ badge? If I put that on my debadged car people will then Know

otherwise it is very good Jim
:

booked the Corriness nearby.

see you in a few weeks mate.

Ooooow! I do like these... Much brawness indeed....

Poolewe Hotel didn't have twin left only family at £175.
Staying at Corriness Hotel nearby.

Who else has Standard 16" wheels. Thinking I might bring along a full size wheel spare and leave my space saver and jack behind to free up space and save weight. That way if any one gets a puncture we'll have a proper size Spare wheel to fit and won't get delayed driving at 40 max on the space saver wheel. Though if it is me I'll need a jack team to come and rescue me and Lewis.

Yep, cracking design Signor Giacosa !

Applecross Inn Friday lunch

1. drileyx2
2. jimboy
3. Barney
4. Edinburgh
5. Rossox2


Anyone else to add?

This was many pages ago so I thought it worth bringing to the front...

we have a lunch plan for Friday, any thoughts/preferences for Saturday?

Good Idea Simon.

Though we finish in Glenfinnan not Arisaig on Saturday.

Amended

Lewis and I please

Applecross Inn Friday lunch

1. drileyx2
2. jimboy
3. Barney
4. Edinburgh
5. Rossox2
6. Lego and Lewis


Anyone else to add?

That's a terrific idea about the wheel, Lego-

I'll check today...

Hey guys, regarding a flat tyre, I carry a spray foam tyre inflator/sealer. Not the best idea, but it would save a lot of faffing about & trying to jack up the Coop on a not the best surface, if you get my drift....

I always carry a compressor myself, Jimboy

But it doesn't mean that either would help!

From what I understand- you've got to be 'lucky' for tyre inflating foam to work. Like the 'wrong kind of snow', I think you need the 'right kind of puncture'! If you see what I mean

(Which is a grave shame as I have another car that relies on tyre inflation foam)

However- that is great to note- along with Barney's efforts (who I think listed a toolkit) I'm sure we'll have enough to go round...

Yes Jimboy. No harm in having that stuff. I have had it in various cars for over 15 years now, though never had to use it. Like Jim - I too believe it has speed limitations and won't always work!

Along with the space saver wheel, I think it is perfectly okay to have as an emergency toolkit when permanent repair options are close by.
My thinking on the full size wheel is; that on this trip we might be a significant distance from repair, and a major detour(with knock-on effects) might be needed to get a puncture repaired properly.

Its a great idea

OK that's it then, on no account will anyone have a puncture.... ........

I've used the stuff on my diesel hack, twice now. Years ago when I worked in Aberdeen welding (7days a week) had a puncture on my wee Punto. This was the first time using the foam. I ran for weeks until I managed to have time for a new tyre. (tight git,no time off)

Now I would never advise on this, but it may as said give you time to the nearest garage/tyre place.

Well- that's amazing! Fair enough...


Phew- enough thinking about Coupés for one day. I've begun to think I'm doing things to get ready for this trip without even thinking about it.

Never mind- how about a nice bath?

Wait! Oh no!!?

What the...!

Is there no stopping you, you'll have the front bumper in bed next

Ha-

It's too late for that picture...!

Wow chaps, your Coops are going to be shining like new pins. Unfortunately my sprinty is suffering very badly from lacquer peel & it's the last thing on my to do list. I've just dropped my Coop off at my mechanic. Hopefully the brakes will be sorted without major problems or hard to get parts.

Worst case I'll be in my diesel hack..

No no Jim, worst case scenario we'll fix you up with a tow from Marko's silver dart, that'll slow him down a tad

Fingers crossed Simon. You know this, I always have that feeling in the pit of my stomach when the Coop needs attention. It's the only vehicle that I've suffered this...

Brakes??

It'll be fine, Jim- don't worry about it...

Having discussed this at length, we're definitely out.

Partly due to my inability to find the exact Coupé I'm after in time (surely you don't want an aging Citroën in your midst) and more importantly due to the completely unexpected but excellent news that Mrs. Jimbob is currently pregnant and apparently can't go more than 10' from a toilet.

We hope you all have a great time, be sure to take plenty of pics so that we can live vicariously through them.

Jim, really sorry you won't manage this -not even a wave? - but more importantly wonderful news about further jimbob-itos!

Pass on very best wishes to Colette

Depending upon your final route, we may be at the passing point closest to us to wave you past.

Thanks Simon, from both myself and Colette.

We'll phone up with our coffee orders

Congrats Jimbob!

Applecross Inn Friday lunch

1. drileyx2
2. jimboy
3. Barney
4. Edinburgh
5. Rossox2
6. Lego and Lewis
7. DGx2

All 11 booked for 1.30

I thought it better to allow a little extra time so that we don't feel rushed through this incredible landscape!


Now to think about Saturday......

The stickers are brilliant.