The Caledonian Canal
It was a unique experience for our ship to have spent the night secured to the wall within the lock chamber at Laggan. This happens because the lockmaster’s day ends at 5 p.m., and no traffic can transit the lock after that time.
By 8 a.m., Captain McKie had the Lord of the Glens warmed up, as the lockmaster was ready to have the day’s traffic move through the canal. We said a short-term good-bye to our kayakers, and headed into Loch Lochy (Loch of the Dark Goddess). This twelve mile long scenic lake ends at the two Gairlochy locks. Here, our kayakers rejoined us, while many of us disembarked to walk and bike the next eight miles along the tow path, meeting the ship at Banavie, our next dock site. It was fine weather for a ride or a stroll, and the backdrop was gorgeous. It is at this time of the year that the heather is in full bloom, and the hillsides reflect back to us in shades of lavender.
Glencoe is famous for its spectacular scenery. Glacially sculpted, the valley has grand rock walls, gushing waterfalls, surging streams and countless side canyons that are popular with hikers from around the British Isles and around the world. Glencoe is also famous for its often tragic human history. Both natural and human history are magnificently laid out in the fine visitor center that we visited. In recent years, this area has been used in the filming of the Harry Potter movies.
Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the British Isles (4,406 feet) stood above us throughout the evening, but it kept its head in the clouds. Perhaps tomorrow we will get a look at this imposing mountain.
