A recollection of the finest

Since having begun tweaking and tinkering with bicycles, I have often gotten lost seeking perfection. Whilst this may well be important when it comes to a moving vehicle, it has led to an excessive amount of time spent inspecting flaws and contemplating bicycle practicalities. As a result, the search for the ultimate do-it-all bicycle for…

Cycling along the gulf of Bothnia

Summer 2021 saw the last multi-day tour for perhaps a wee while. In December of the same year, my spouse and I entered parenthood and we've been enjoying the emotional rollercoaster since. Whilst I still dream of escaping the city with bicycle and pannier, I know that it is something for future joys. Nevertheless, I…

A different tarmac

Too long since a post has been written about hitting the road on a two-wheeler. We're talking about the steel horse as reminder here, the kind powered by your own fuel. But, this in no way means that there has not been any form of bicycle touring, in fact quite the opposite. Only that it…

Bread, updated

It has been quite a while since I last posted, but during this current time of social isolation and the revival of home baking it seems fitting to update what I last wrote about bread with a recipe/process of the go-to formula I use when I bake sourdough. This I have shared now with friends…

Bread

Bread. So simple yet so undervalued in Scotland. A quality hand-crafted loaf can go a long way in search of socio-economic justice and good health. Bit by bit we're realising the industry's overarching insult of what they consider to be bread. And bit by bit we're turning back to our local artisan bakers reaching out for…

Bothies, beaches & the open road

This isn't the first slow adventure on the isles so I can't add much more than what I have already mentioned previously. The point is that you can't help but come back. The smooth and challenging rides are all the more worth it when you take in the views. As with the last trip to…

Scottish Isolation

No words can describe how you will feel when the tread of your tyre struggles to grip the steep tarmac of the roads up north, enveloped in immensely pure wilderness. After every pedal, rain or shine, no matter what emotions are pulsing through your body and mind, the northern territories of Scotland will always take your breath away...…

Lochaber, Glenshiel & Skye

Earlier this year, I found inspiration through a blog post on Real Cycling (link below) - the 22 mile cul-de-sac from Invergarry to Kinloch Hourn. Prior to reading the article, I had been scanning both Google & OS maps working out how to get to Portree from Fort William via Kylerhea. The problem is, Google directions…

Ardgour & Moidart, weekend circular

Ah, the western territories of Scotland. When you think it can't get any better, it can - the further west and the further north, but we'll get to the northern regions another time... With Fort William as a base, this little overnight weekend loop was a great getaway. Quite simple in terms of organisation and…

Touring Dumfries & Galloway

I often get the feeling that Dumfries & Galloway is left to bathe in its own beauty whilst the common tourist heads to Skye or the Highlands. This is why cycling in the region is sublime. The undulating hills remind me a lot of certain regions in France. And, of course, the countryside smell that lingers…