Day 95: Helmsdale to Dunbeath

It was a hard day today. The cliffs returned, resulting in lots of up and downs, and it’s been a hot day too. But it was all very rewarding, with spectacular views. 

• Date: 23 June 2024
• Start: Helmsdale
• End: Dunbeath
• Miles: 15.5
• Total miles: 1,229.8
• Accommodation: Inver Caravan Park

We set off from Helmsdale via the beach, walking on the pebbles as we then started to climb up onto the cliffs, passing a number of old World War 2 outposts. 

The path continued to climb steeply, and for the first time since the Pennine Way, I was back walking through boggy moorland. We kept following the path as it descended into Berriedale, stopping for a break on the way down by some towers. 

We continued into Berriedale, where we needed to cross a very old looking bridge. It also got a lot warmer at this point as the sun appeared. 

We immediately climbed out of Berriedale and back onto the cliff tops, walking past an interesting looking box. 

We continued along the cliffs with some very impressive scenery, including a waterfall, arches and a stack. 

The heat was really getting to us at this point, making progress slow. Thankfully, the path ventured inland, and through some lovely woods. 

The path led into Dunbeath, where we headed to camp and set up our tents. We then headed to a pub around the corner as we were absolutely starving. It had great views out to the sea. 

It was a very early night as I was knackered, probably a mixture of the heat and the climbing. As tomorrow is looking even warmer, we’ve decided to get up earlier to try and beat the heat.