It would be fair to describe the weather at the start of this run as ‘dreich’. Nevertheless, in the spirit of ‘I’ve started so I’ll finish ‘ we set off. Tim, who masterminded the trip, led as he knew the passes! So from Dumbarton it was a short spin up the A82, turning on to the A817 towards Loch Long. Although we didn’t encounter rain, the mist constantly accumulated and coalesced on our visors to form rivulets. The surrounding mountains were almost invisible as we climbed but their presence, somehow both serene but foreboding, could be felt as we rode along.
Turning right, we headed up the A814 with Loch Long on our left. By this time, the mist was slightly lighter and more patchy. The effect was to provide a perfect backdrop to the leafless trees on the small peninsulas jutting out into the loch.
Another right turn took us onto the Tulloch Road that runs through Glen Douglas. This is a single track road with a good surface but it pays not to be too enthusiastic with the throttle. There are a couple of hairpins to help keep the heart pumping. Again, great views of the mountains as we headed back towards Loch Lomond.
Turning left onto the A82, we had a short run up to the Rest & Be Thankful viewpoint where we turned onto the B828. Bowling along, we found ourselves ascending into cloud, catching glimpses of the surrounding mountains visible through the tops of the clouds. We then descended below cloud level where we could see clouds below us in the glen. This cycle repeated several times. We were flying!
A fairly rapid descent brought us to slightly better weather at Loch Goil. We followed the B839 around the top of the Loch Long for a stop at the Boatshed cafe/ restaurant. We sat outside (in November) to enjoy the majesty of the mountains and the evanescent mist patches that sat just above the mirror surface of the Loch. The Boathouse is a must visit for future runs.
From there we partially retraced our path and scooted up the B839 through Hells Glen, slowing down to take in Moses Well which will be familiar to this years Challengers. Back onto the A83 and we were soon in a chip shop in Inverary.
We were mindful of the time and shorter days so decided to forego a trip up the A819 and on to the Green Welly. So we simply returned to Tarbet and headed towards home.
This was a fantastic day out. It didn’t actually rain and dampen our spirits. On the contrary, the misty weather brought its own mystique to the trip. I’m certain this run will be in the Club’s calendar next year.
Sincere thanks to Tim for suggesting the run and his companionship on the day.
Run date 08/11/25
Allan Jones