July Extra this coming Saturday

We've got our second of this month's rides coming up on Saturday (21st). This will be one of our Extra rides, which, as you know, are a little longer and faster than our usual outings. These rides are aimed at riders who are comfortable with our normal runs and now want something slightly more challenging. But they are still sociable events; we don't ride so fast that you can't keep up a conversation.

For this week's ride, Julia will be leading us into West Lothian. The route is an interesting one. We'll head out towards Cramond Brig and Kirkliston, then, after a bit of climbing, we'll take the high road between Faucheldean and Ochiltree. This is a pleasant undulating road with fine views to the north. After dropping down to Kingscavil, there will be a short stretch along the canal. We'll then head back to town by way of Abercorn and the Hopetoun Estate. The total distance will be about 32 miles.

Lunch

Our lunch stop will be at the New Hopetoun Garden Centre. This has some lovely picnic spots within its grounds, and also a nice café. Note that about two thirds of the total mileage will be in the morning, so lunch will be on the late side. Adjust your appetites accordingly.

Meeting time and place

The ride will start at 10:00 from our alternative meeting point at the Craigleith path junction (see here if you need directions).

Looking ahead, we've got our next "second Saturday" ride on 11th August, and another Extra on 25th August.