Limekilns, Elie chain walk & spring!

Spring arrived in Scotland last week with temperatures above 20 degrees. At the weekend it started to drop but still looked fine and so Robbie and I decided to visit a place where I have never been before: Limekilns. It is essentially two large, presumably quarried limestone blocks. Here a photo of the Western side in the shade with good VSs and HVSs. This photo was taken with the EUMC out in force.

 Here is Robbie earlier on climbing DTs. 

 After cruising two HVSs I felt good enough to try Elgin's Crack E2 5c. The start is bouldery and the foot holds are polished so whilst I got to the first break I realised that it was too much for the first trad outing of the season.

After that a lunch in the Elgin hotel and onwards to Elie with Scotlands only (?) via ferrata. Here is Robbie tackling one of those stainless steel chains.

Quite exciting for via ferrata newcomers in places. Back on a path with good views over Elie and the golf course...

 ... shown here...

 ... and with the daffodils already out.

 On the way to Dundee and in Broughty Ferry I also took a few photos to document the first foray of spring. Two trees on a ploughed field near Fettercairn...

 ... swans in Broughty Ferry ...

 ..., Broughty Ferry harbour...

 ..., and the castle on the banks of the bonnie Tay.

It all makes the sudden end of winter with all its adventures more bearable. And all of a sudden I saw a giraffe swimming in the Tay (hang on, the 1st of April was yesterday).

HW