🚵♀️ Clova Prosen Ridgeline – Reverse Loop Adventure
By Nadine Reilly
There’s something special about setting off into the Angus glens with good company, a challenging route, and just enough unpredictability to keep things interesting. This past Saturday, three of us took on a reverse loop of the Clova Prosen Ridgeline, starting and finishing at the ever-reliable Peel Farm—a favourite launchpad for many local adventures.
🧤 A Frosty Start
The day began with a classic pre-ride hiccup: I forgot my gloves. Cue a quick dash back to retrieve them, which meant a slightly later start than planned. With the temperature on the brisk side 🥶, gloves were non-negotiable!
⛰️ Climbing into the Clouds
Despite the chill, we warmed up quickly thanks to some tough early climbs. The route wasted no time in reminding us why we love (and sometimes curse) these hills. As we gained elevation, the views opened up beautifully, even with a blanket of low cloud hanging over the ridgeline. It was one of those days where the landscape felt both dramatic and serene.
🥪 Lunch with a View
With no café stops en route, Laura and I opted for a sandwich break on the Hill of Coutenach, soaking in the scenery while Coops powered ahead, disappearing over the horizon 😂. It’s always a balance between fuelling up and keeping pace—and we chose sandwiches over speed!
💪 The Beast of Eskielawn
The standout climb of the day came from Prosen, winding up a mile and a half of farm track that skirts the foot of Eskielawn. With an average gradient of 9%, it was a proper leg burner 🤪. But there’s nothing like a challenge to get the legs firing—and I was chuffed to bag the QOM on the segment. Even better, my legs felt strong for once, and I wasn’t far behind Paul (despite what he might think 😆).
🌊 Backwater Dam Shenanigans
After the descent, Paul suggested we take the scenic route around the edge of Backwater Dam. Laura, ever the wise one, stuck to the road. But never one to pass up a challenge, I followed Paul 🙄. It wasn’t long before I found myself shin-deep in muddy, sandy sludge, nearly losing my shoes in the process 👟😳😂. A true test of commitment—or stubbornness!
🏁 The Final Stretch
Eventually, we made it back to solid ground and rejoined Laura for the last stretch home. Riding the route anticlockwise definitely felt tougher, with the climbs hitting harder and the terrain demanding more. But that just made the finish all the more satisfying.
❤️ Reflections
This ride had everything: laughter, grit, stunning views, and a bit of misadventure. Huge thanks to Laura and Coops for the company, the encouragement, and the shared love of the trails. These are the days that remind us why we ride—not just for the fitness or the challenge, but for the stories we bring home.
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