A couple of Belles on Bikes who love ice cream…

Talk about being spontaneous…

Two weeks ago, Isabel and Janet cycled to Callander, and along the route, they started chatting about where else they could go. They discovered that the Hebridean Way was high up on both their bucket lists.

Janet recalls, ”I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, aged 46 in 2016. Unfortunately, my Parkinson’s has progressed and although new additional tablets are making daily tasks more manageable, other physical health issues are being investigated. I have to strike whilst the iron is hot. Walking is an extremely painful experience but I can still cycle. I’m not the most biomechanically efficient cyclist but I’m out there in the fresh air, independent, travelling fast plus the mental health benefits far out weigh the pain I’m in. After completing the NC500 in 2019, solo and unsupported, it highlighted that I would much prefer company.  Plus, it would be irresponsible of me to go solo touring now, so I am so lucky that Isabel will be with me, despite her own health concerns.

“Hello, I’m Isabel. I’m a fitness instructor and I love teaching fitness classes, especially RPM (indoor cycling.) I also have the privilege of working with people with a variety of health conditions including Parkinson’s, which is extremely rewarding. 

Janet and I met during an online Cycling UK event promoting women’s cycling and discovered that we had a common interest in starting a Belles on Bikes - Fife group.  

I‘m thoroughly looking forward to our adventure but not too sure how I’ll cope sleeping in a tent! Fingers crossed for fine weather, although, I’m preparing for the worst as we both seem to be jinxed in that area.”

Due to the spontaneity of the trip, it was impossible to get accommodation and they ruled out camping and scrapped the idea. Possibly postponing it until next year.  However, they slept on it and… bought a tent! They have managed to secure one BnB, a hostel and some couch surfing.

We have to give a massive shout out to our husbands, Dave for taking us to Oban and Gary for picking us up from Ullapool.  Also, Anne and Dave and Anne’s parents who will be putting us up at the end and who offered to provide a support vehicle on the hard days over Harris and Lewis!  

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