Weather forecast is pretty terrible, but at least it is not raining at the start of the day as we set out from Perth to Ballater. There is nothing worse than heading off in a downpour. At least you can keep some hope of a fine day for a while before it is crushed.

Today is about hills and castles - really just one hill and one castle, although a couple more featured briefly. First was Scone Palace, located just outside of Perth and once home of Scottish Kings but now empty bar a few roaming peacocks that Eleanor spent a lot of time trying to photograph. Braemer Castle was pretty cool but had nothing on the nearby Balmoral Castle - the Queen's summer retreat. Unfortunately she only tends to stay from August to October so wasn't at home when we dropped by. We did get to see a couple of red squirrels for the first time though. The castle itself is impressive with lots of turrets and the grounds warranted a good few hours exploring but unfortunately time constraints on this trip only allow the briefest of viewings. Inside the castle there was an exhibition on the Queen for the Diamond Jubilee showing some of her dresses. There were also exhibitions on Balmoral itself, including some carriages and a view of the stables. You don't get to see much of the house itself but it's definitely worth a visit.

The rain came as we entered Cairngorms national park and started to ascend the highest 'A' road in Britain. Topping out at 670m, the maximum gradient of 12% burnt out the engine of one caravan towing car which was fairly amusing as we slowly made our way up. Through our rain spattered glasses we could make out the valley and surrounding mountains. Eleanor said that if it's this beautiful in the wet, it must be mesmerising in the sunshine. The Glenshee ski centre café at the top provided cake, tea and a chance to briefly dry out, before putting on all the warm and waterproof cycling gear we had for the descent to Braemar.

We have been in Scotland for a couple of days now and realised I was missing out on the nation's favourite drink - whisky? Not for lunch. Maybe an urban myth but Scotland is the only country in the world where instead of coke, Irn Bru is the best-selling drink. Eleanor thought it tasted like fizzy bubblegum but it is packed with plenty of caffeine and is a renowned hangover cure - hence the reason for its popularity in the most unhealthy nation in the world.

Need to try some whisky as well, deep fried mars bars can wait.

Distance: 107km

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/197911818