October 2: Left home at 9.30. Stopped in Dunblane at 7ish for a meal at the Dunblane Hotel. OK, but not great. Then carried on to Roybridge- arrived at 9.50. After I had settled in, I went for a walk over the railway line & along a track by the side of the river but could not find the bridge (well it was dark.)
October 3: Raining hard in the morning, so went back to bed after breakfast. I slept until 11.00, eventually set off at about 12 for Cruach Innse. Had lunch at Insh, then left the path and headed up steep ground up the South East ridge, reached the summit at 4, then on to Sgurr Innse, very craggy, on the summit at 5.30, left 10 minutes later, down Corrie Lair, overshot the turning to AC, reversed then headed NW along the tramway. I met an unfriendly wildcat after about 15 minutes, then a v. steep descent to Glen Spean, back at 9.40, 5 minutes after a train came past.
October 4: Late start, arrived Fersit at 11.15, headed for Stob Coir Mheadhoin. Retreated 330 metres below the summit, too windy, crossed the Allt Coire Lair at the dam, back to car at 5.30, very windy, also windy at AC.
October 5: Left at 1030, headed for Lairig Leachach Bothy. Climbed steeply to the tramway, then walked along the tramway, v. wet, skirted around streams. Could not cross the stream flowing down the Lairig. Crossed some rough ground, then rejoined the main path. Stopped for lunch at 2, arrived at Bothy at 3.10, left 3.30 back at AC at 7pm.
October 6: Due at Corrour, packed up and shopped. Got the 12.13train from Tulloch. Chatted to a couple in the train and had a coffee at the Station House. Eventually set off at 3.45 for Leil Uilleim, very wet, fell over on the horribly boggy path, then it rained hard for about half an hour. Carried but at 5.30, headed back down the corrie, back at 7.10.
October 7: Set off for Rannoch at 10.00. v.hard going. At first I went cross country, then headed for the path, then briefly along a track which brought me a to the railway line. Then walked across the moor across rough ground constantly stopping to cross streams, incredibly boggy & wet ground. At 2 headed for the forest above Loch Laidon. It then warmed up slightly, spotted a building and what I thought was a path, which was a v. boggy ramp, then on a track and on the station. Back at Corrour by 3.20, then walked along the path to Ossian, then to the railway track and back along the line to Corrour.
October 8: Set off at 9.40, headed for Leim Uilleim again, this time by the South ridge. Very windy, cloud base at 600m. One steep section up a gully, retreated at 12.20 a few yards short of the summit, so it would give me a good reason to do it again in good weather. Descended by the ascent route, avoided the gully, lunch at 1.30, then back to the station at 2.40. back to Tulloch at 3.40.
Good week
Sunday 21 November 2010
Monday 30 August 2010
Braemar, July 25-30
July 25: Drove up on a Sunday, because I bought the new car on the Saturday. Car went like a rocket, pretty fair mpg. Left home at 9.30, arrived Braemar at 9.
July 26: Drove to Linn of Dee. Now have to pay to park, £2.00 outrageous. I nearly stormed off without paying as I had no change, but I turned round & managed to get some coins off another driver. I eventually left Linn of Dee at 11.15, walked to White Bridge, then headed north, and while I was stopped, 2 lads walked past me with quite big packs on, one was wearing sandals, and had his boots in his rucksack.
I carried on a fair way north, then approached Creagan nan Gabhar from the NW, then reached the top of Sgurr Mor at 3.45. I then carried along the ridge to Sgor Subh, then dropped down to the path from White Bridge. I opened my rucksack to look at my GPS, and it was not there. I must have left it at my last stop. Damn. Too tired to go back and look so carried on to Linn of Dee arrived there at 6.15. A good day in spite of losing my GPS.
July 27: GPS hunt. Back to Linn of Dee, set of at 9.45, went to Derry Lodge, then on towards Luibeg Burn, where I turned off & approached Sgor Dubh from the NW, on summit at 12.45. Tried to follow the route of yetarday’s descent, but could not find the GPS. Not helped by the quite thick heather and the fact that I could not remember where I last stopped. On Sgur Mor at 5.00, Linn of Dee at 7.15.
July 28: To Linn of Dee again, but no GPS search today, walked to Fords of Avon Bothy. Went via Derry Lodge and then on to the bothy, and crossed the river without too many problems, although I did manage to put my foot in the river once. Had a dryoing session at the bothy, fortunately it was dry, and had some lunch. Then headed back, arrived at Linn of Dee by 7.00
July 29: Drove to Auchallater Lodge, mistake, £2.50 to park a car. Set off at 11.00, walked down Glen Callater then on to the top of the ridge, to Sron non Gabhar, then on to Creag nan Gabhar, which I reached at 1.00pm, where I had lunch. I descended to Lochcallater Lodge, & had a look around the bothy, very comfortable, with an easy chair which I made use of. Nobody was staying there, returned along the track back to the car and into Braemar in sunshine.
July 30: Last day, packed up and drove to Linn of Dee yet again. I attempted yet another abortive search. A knackering ascent, and got back to the main track at 1.00pm. Tehn on to White Bridge, and headed for Corrour, which took ages, arrived at the junction of the paths at 4.20., Luibed at 5.20, Linn of Dee at 7. I checked in to the Morefield House Hotel, and had an excellent meal, and a good sleep.
July 31: Left for home at 9.30, after saying good bye to Kate Muirhead. Stopped just outside Blairgowrie to buy some raspberries, then on to Edinburgh to see Richard, and went out for a meal with him. Then started on the long journey south, got held up in a horrendous traffic jam outside Birmingham, at about 8.30, did not get free of it until 11.00. I stopped off at Warwick Service Station for a meal which was revolting, a huge contrast to my meal last night. Got home at 1.00a.m. Good week.
July 26: Drove to Linn of Dee. Now have to pay to park, £2.00 outrageous. I nearly stormed off without paying as I had no change, but I turned round & managed to get some coins off another driver. I eventually left Linn of Dee at 11.15, walked to White Bridge, then headed north, and while I was stopped, 2 lads walked past me with quite big packs on, one was wearing sandals, and had his boots in his rucksack.
I carried on a fair way north, then approached Creagan nan Gabhar from the NW, then reached the top of Sgurr Mor at 3.45. I then carried along the ridge to Sgor Subh, then dropped down to the path from White Bridge. I opened my rucksack to look at my GPS, and it was not there. I must have left it at my last stop. Damn. Too tired to go back and look so carried on to Linn of Dee arrived there at 6.15. A good day in spite of losing my GPS.
July 27: GPS hunt. Back to Linn of Dee, set of at 9.45, went to Derry Lodge, then on towards Luibeg Burn, where I turned off & approached Sgor Dubh from the NW, on summit at 12.45. Tried to follow the route of yetarday’s descent, but could not find the GPS. Not helped by the quite thick heather and the fact that I could not remember where I last stopped. On Sgur Mor at 5.00, Linn of Dee at 7.15.
July 28: To Linn of Dee again, but no GPS search today, walked to Fords of Avon Bothy. Went via Derry Lodge and then on to the bothy, and crossed the river without too many problems, although I did manage to put my foot in the river once. Had a dryoing session at the bothy, fortunately it was dry, and had some lunch. Then headed back, arrived at Linn of Dee by 7.00
July 29: Drove to Auchallater Lodge, mistake, £2.50 to park a car. Set off at 11.00, walked down Glen Callater then on to the top of the ridge, to Sron non Gabhar, then on to Creag nan Gabhar, which I reached at 1.00pm, where I had lunch. I descended to Lochcallater Lodge, & had a look around the bothy, very comfortable, with an easy chair which I made use of. Nobody was staying there, returned along the track back to the car and into Braemar in sunshine.
July 30: Last day, packed up and drove to Linn of Dee yet again. I attempted yet another abortive search. A knackering ascent, and got back to the main track at 1.00pm. Tehn on to White Bridge, and headed for Corrour, which took ages, arrived at the junction of the paths at 4.20., Luibed at 5.20, Linn of Dee at 7. I checked in to the Morefield House Hotel, and had an excellent meal, and a good sleep.
July 31: Left for home at 9.30, after saying good bye to Kate Muirhead. Stopped just outside Blairgowrie to buy some raspberries, then on to Edinburgh to see Richard, and went out for a meal with him. Then started on the long journey south, got held up in a horrendous traffic jam outside Birmingham, at about 8.30, did not get free of it until 11.00. I stopped off at Warwick Service Station for a meal which was revolting, a huge contrast to my meal last night. Got home at 1.00a.m. Good week.
Saturday 22 May 2010
Compleation: Ratagan May 8-15, 2010.
May 8: Left home at 8.40, arrived Lee’s house at 9.40. Had another breakfast at his house & then set off at 10.30, arrived Ratagan at 10.30.
May 9: Left Ratagan at 9.05. Arrived GlenBrittle at 10.45. Set off for Sgurr Dearg at about 11, arrived at Inn Pinn at 2.30, after a lunch. Started climbing at 3, on top at 4, then started for home at 4.30, in Glen Brittle at 7.45, very cold and strong wind. Dinner at Sligachan at 8.30, back to Ratagan at 11 after an abortive trip to Cluanie.
May 10: Left Ratagan at 10 en route for Glenelg to drop Lee off as his knee had not recovered. Got held up by a herd of cattle just outside the village, who were being herded in an unusual way~from the herdsman’s car. Not surprisingly this did not work very well and they took ages to pass by. We dropped lee & my car at the ferry terminal car park, and we arrived at Arnisdale at 11 and met up with the others. We set off just after 11 up some very steep ground, and one section of scree, before making the summit at about 2.45. I got the champagne which I had lugged all the way up (maybe that was why I was going so slowly) and celebrated the compleation in the usual style, with booze & loads of photographs. We left at 3.15 am and got back to Arnisdale at about 5.30. I met Lee at the car and we drove back to Ratagan and then on to the Cluanie for a celebration dinner. Thanks everyone for a great day.
I will not be doing another round, & neither will I be climbing another list of mountains again. Real mountaineering starts now!
May 11: Took Lee back to the Cluanie, to meet Andy & Joele who were taking him b to Inverness Airport to catch the flight back to Gatwick. I headed for Am Bahtach set off at 11.00, no point in starting too early. I was going very slowly, clearly I had completed just in time. I put my over trousers on as it started snowing (!) I discovered that I could not do both zips up to the top. Clearly I had put some inches on the waist line since I had last worn them about 6 months ago. I Passed a pair of green willies en route to the top, but no sign of the owner. I still cannot work out the reason for their abandonment. I got back to the car at about 4.15.
May 12: A beautiful day, drove to Totaig. I walked along the coastal path to Glenelg for a while, and then went into a broch just off the path, quite big with a very low entrance. I managed to crack my skull on the doorway on the way out. Painful. Walked back to the car and then drove to Glenelg, near to the ferry terminal. I read my book and basked in the sun. I saw a sea Eagle and chatted to the locals. Back to Ratagan.
May 13: Decide to climb Sgurr Na Moraich at the Morvich end of Glen Licht. Very steep ascent, started at 11.45, summit at 2.30 in another snow shower. I then descend by following the course of the Allt a Chruinn, I then followed the path back to the road, and got back to the car at 5.15.
May 14: I decided to return home a day early. I left Ratagan at 9.15, Stirling at 1.15, than home 10 pm, a very good journey, no hold ups, amazing.
May 9: Left Ratagan at 9.05. Arrived GlenBrittle at 10.45. Set off for Sgurr Dearg at about 11, arrived at Inn Pinn at 2.30, after a lunch. Started climbing at 3, on top at 4, then started for home at 4.30, in Glen Brittle at 7.45, very cold and strong wind. Dinner at Sligachan at 8.30, back to Ratagan at 11 after an abortive trip to Cluanie.
May 10: Left Ratagan at 10 en route for Glenelg to drop Lee off as his knee had not recovered. Got held up by a herd of cattle just outside the village, who were being herded in an unusual way~from the herdsman’s car. Not surprisingly this did not work very well and they took ages to pass by. We dropped lee & my car at the ferry terminal car park, and we arrived at Arnisdale at 11 and met up with the others. We set off just after 11 up some very steep ground, and one section of scree, before making the summit at about 2.45. I got the champagne which I had lugged all the way up (maybe that was why I was going so slowly) and celebrated the compleation in the usual style, with booze & loads of photographs. We left at 3.15 am and got back to Arnisdale at about 5.30. I met Lee at the car and we drove back to Ratagan and then on to the Cluanie for a celebration dinner. Thanks everyone for a great day.
I will not be doing another round, & neither will I be climbing another list of mountains again. Real mountaineering starts now!
May 11: Took Lee back to the Cluanie, to meet Andy & Joele who were taking him b to Inverness Airport to catch the flight back to Gatwick. I headed for Am Bahtach set off at 11.00, no point in starting too early. I was going very slowly, clearly I had completed just in time. I put my over trousers on as it started snowing (!) I discovered that I could not do both zips up to the top. Clearly I had put some inches on the waist line since I had last worn them about 6 months ago. I Passed a pair of green willies en route to the top, but no sign of the owner. I still cannot work out the reason for their abandonment. I got back to the car at about 4.15.
May 12: A beautiful day, drove to Totaig. I walked along the coastal path to Glenelg for a while, and then went into a broch just off the path, quite big with a very low entrance. I managed to crack my skull on the doorway on the way out. Painful. Walked back to the car and then drove to Glenelg, near to the ferry terminal. I read my book and basked in the sun. I saw a sea Eagle and chatted to the locals. Back to Ratagan.
May 13: Decide to climb Sgurr Na Moraich at the Morvich end of Glen Licht. Very steep ascent, started at 11.45, summit at 2.30 in another snow shower. I then descend by following the course of the Allt a Chruinn, I then followed the path back to the road, and got back to the car at 5.15.
May 14: I decided to return home a day early. I left Ratagan at 9.15, Stirling at 1.15, than home 10 pm, a very good journey, no hold ups, amazing.
Monday 23 November 2009
Boat of Garten/Invergarry, October 25-31, 2009.
Oct 25: Drove up on Sunday as too knackered to drive on Saturday. Left home at 9.30, crossed border at 4.15, and I arrived at Boat of Garten at 9.00 pm.
Oct 26: Left Glenmore Lodge at 9.25, then took the Lairig an Laoigh towards the Ford of Avon. After dropping towards Glasath, I met 2 people pushing bikes coming from the opposite direction. Told them I thought they were mad, decided not to tell them I had huge difficulty crossing the last stream, and that they were going very wet feet. Serve them right. Carried onto the Fords of Avon Refuge which I reached at 1.30, and had lunch there (outside) as it was so dark inside as usual, boulders on every wall blocked all the light. It was in good condition, with a foam mat on the floor, 2 books, matches, and some rubbish which I removed. There was huge amount of water in the streams-the Avon was quite impossible to cross at the Ford or at the outflow of the loch. After lunch I headed up towards the Saddle, then headed down Strath Nethy, which was very rough and quite slow going. I reached the junction of the path to Ryvoan at about 5.30, stopped for food and put on the head torch, back to Glenmore Lodge at 6.20.
Oct 27: Drove towards Dorback Lodge, with the intention of climbing Geal Charn. I parked at Balintium, who had very considerately provided a parking space, then headed for the Dorback Burn which I crossed with great difficulty. Soon I heard voices on the path ahead, and got rather concerned that I was about to be shot by a deerstalking party - fortunately, it was a group of estate workers doing some maintenance work. I then skirted Eag Mor, then followed the track South East to its end. Then crossed some incredibly rough ground - heather, peat hags, ascended the summit from the SW, crossed a fence (!) and reached the top at 2.30. I descended the by the N ridge, then got on to the path above Allt Mor, back to car at 4.30, in daylight. A nice contrast to yesterday.
Oct 28: Drove to Coylumbridge, my plan was to walk down Glen Einich, then go on to the Braeriach plateau, then drop down into An Garbh Choire. Not my best idea with hindsight. Set off at 9.10, and headed down the Glen, and at 12 headed toward the plateau. A long drag up, in increasingly dreary and dreich weather. Stopped for lunch in the drizzle. Carried on upwards after lunch, going increasingly more slowly, decided to abandon at about 1000m, headed towards Loch Coire a Lochan, spectacular situation, then descended via Beanaidh Bheag, the descent took a gratifyingly long time. I reached Glen Einich at about 5, then started the long walk back to the car, reached Coylumbridge, after the all important toilet break, at 6.45.
October 29: A beautiful morning. Drove to Blairnamarrow just beyond Tomintoul. Set off at 11.00, but the clouds soon rolled in with a cold wind, so put some more layers on. I had lunch just below the summit of Carn Ealasaid, reached the top in clear air, then headed for Beinn A Chruinn, at the top of the Lecht ski runs. I headed back to the car which I reached at 3.45, then went to The Lecht for a coffee, which was almost totally deserted. Returned via Tomintoul & Grantown.
October 30: Left Boat of Garten at 9.00, bound for Gairich, went via Inverness & Invergarry to Glen Kingie in dry weather. Arrived at the dam at 11 and it started to rain-hard. Seriously contemplated finding a Corbett but none were close enough. Fortunately the rain relented so got ready to leave, set off at 11.30, much too late for this time of year. After a few minutes, it started to rain again so put on all the waterproofs. I stopped for lunch at 1.30, but made the stop brief as I got cold quickly in the damp weather. I stopped again for more food just below the summit and reached the summit at 3.40 in the cloud. I decided to return via the ascent route. It became dark at 5, and managed to lose the path. I saw the ridge line in the gloom and got back on the right track. I picked up the path through the forest, and then headed over the bog to the dam. I got slightly sidetracked and went on the shore of the loch, cunningly, but unintentionally, avoiding the worst of the sodden ground. I was relieved to see the dam appear out of the dark, I crossed it and reached the car at 7.15. A great relief. I drove through torrential rain out of the Glen, then had a very disappointing meal at the Invergarry Hotel, I should have eaten my own remaining food. We live and learn. In spite of this, a really good day, a case of overcoming the elements.
Oct 26: Left Glenmore Lodge at 9.25, then took the Lairig an Laoigh towards the Ford of Avon. After dropping towards Glasath, I met 2 people pushing bikes coming from the opposite direction. Told them I thought they were mad, decided not to tell them I had huge difficulty crossing the last stream, and that they were going very wet feet. Serve them right. Carried onto the Fords of Avon Refuge which I reached at 1.30, and had lunch there (outside) as it was so dark inside as usual, boulders on every wall blocked all the light. It was in good condition, with a foam mat on the floor, 2 books, matches, and some rubbish which I removed. There was huge amount of water in the streams-the Avon was quite impossible to cross at the Ford or at the outflow of the loch. After lunch I headed up towards the Saddle, then headed down Strath Nethy, which was very rough and quite slow going. I reached the junction of the path to Ryvoan at about 5.30, stopped for food and put on the head torch, back to Glenmore Lodge at 6.20.
Oct 27: Drove towards Dorback Lodge, with the intention of climbing Geal Charn. I parked at Balintium, who had very considerately provided a parking space, then headed for the Dorback Burn which I crossed with great difficulty. Soon I heard voices on the path ahead, and got rather concerned that I was about to be shot by a deerstalking party - fortunately, it was a group of estate workers doing some maintenance work. I then skirted Eag Mor, then followed the track South East to its end. Then crossed some incredibly rough ground - heather, peat hags, ascended the summit from the SW, crossed a fence (!) and reached the top at 2.30. I descended the by the N ridge, then got on to the path above Allt Mor, back to car at 4.30, in daylight. A nice contrast to yesterday.
Oct 28: Drove to Coylumbridge, my plan was to walk down Glen Einich, then go on to the Braeriach plateau, then drop down into An Garbh Choire. Not my best idea with hindsight. Set off at 9.10, and headed down the Glen, and at 12 headed toward the plateau. A long drag up, in increasingly dreary and dreich weather. Stopped for lunch in the drizzle. Carried on upwards after lunch, going increasingly more slowly, decided to abandon at about 1000m, headed towards Loch Coire a Lochan, spectacular situation, then descended via Beanaidh Bheag, the descent took a gratifyingly long time. I reached Glen Einich at about 5, then started the long walk back to the car, reached Coylumbridge, after the all important toilet break, at 6.45.
October 29: A beautiful morning. Drove to Blairnamarrow just beyond Tomintoul. Set off at 11.00, but the clouds soon rolled in with a cold wind, so put some more layers on. I had lunch just below the summit of Carn Ealasaid, reached the top in clear air, then headed for Beinn A Chruinn, at the top of the Lecht ski runs. I headed back to the car which I reached at 3.45, then went to The Lecht for a coffee, which was almost totally deserted. Returned via Tomintoul & Grantown.
October 30: Left Boat of Garten at 9.00, bound for Gairich, went via Inverness & Invergarry to Glen Kingie in dry weather. Arrived at the dam at 11 and it started to rain-hard. Seriously contemplated finding a Corbett but none were close enough. Fortunately the rain relented so got ready to leave, set off at 11.30, much too late for this time of year. After a few minutes, it started to rain again so put on all the waterproofs. I stopped for lunch at 1.30, but made the stop brief as I got cold quickly in the damp weather. I stopped again for more food just below the summit and reached the summit at 3.40 in the cloud. I decided to return via the ascent route. It became dark at 5, and managed to lose the path. I saw the ridge line in the gloom and got back on the right track. I picked up the path through the forest, and then headed over the bog to the dam. I got slightly sidetracked and went on the shore of the loch, cunningly, but unintentionally, avoiding the worst of the sodden ground. I was relieved to see the dam appear out of the dark, I crossed it and reached the car at 7.15. A great relief. I drove through torrential rain out of the Glen, then had a very disappointing meal at the Invergarry Hotel, I should have eaten my own remaining food. We live and learn. In spite of this, a really good day, a case of overcoming the elements.
Sunday 22 November 2009
Roy Bridge/Plockton, September 12-19, 2009.
Sept 12:Left home at 10.00 am, a bit too late. Stopped off at Cotswold in Droitwitch to buy some walking poles and straps for my glasses. Then I carried on the journey north, got stuck in some awful traffic on the M5 & M6, for about 100 miles in one jam after another. Eventually crossed the border at about 6, one of the latest ever. A brief stop at Hamilton, then on to Pitlochry, at about 8.40, where I had to stop for food. I was dismayed to see the chip shop had already closed. It shut at 8.30, unbelievable especially as it had been the Highland Games in the town that day. I found another shop which was open & packed. I then went on to DPs place, which I reached at about 9.30, and had a welcome coffee. I only stayed for half an hour, as it was so late. I then carried on and reached Roy Bridge at 11. Far too late.
Sept 13: Arrived at Torebane at 11am, and briefly chatted to a woman who asked me if this was the right to place for Gulvain. I assured her it was. I made for Gulvain’s SW ridge, and was caught up by the woman from the car park, Lena. What a talker - it was non stop. Fortunately we parted company fairly soon. I slogged up the SW ridge which took me 3 hours. I met Mrs Talkative at the South summit, she had ascended via a different route and we went on to the main summit together which we reached at 4. We dropped off to the South, very steep ground, and rejoined the outward path at about 7. I took a diplomatic pit stop to give my ears a rest and then got back to the car at 8 in daylight. Back to Roy Bridge and another late night.
Sept 14: Due at Plockton tonight, so I decided to drive straight there and do a hill there. Arrived at about 12.30, unpacked and had some lunch, then drove to Applecross and decided to do Sgurr a Charoachain. I parked at the bridge over the Russell burn, and while I was parked a chap parked his shiny new car with a shiny girlfriend in it, and took some photos and then was off, after about 2 minutes. I trogged off up the Glen and was surprised to see how much the area had changed since my last visit to the Cioch Nose with Smudge and the Captain. I left the car at 3pm, and reached the summit at 6pm, in perfect weather. I descended to the east down some steep ground, then back to the car at 7.40 and back to Plockton.
Sept 15: Drove to Strathcarron, started up the path from Achintee, on the path to Bearnais, & Lurg Mhor, but turned round after 2 hours. I felt totally knackered the result of too many late nights. Back to the car at 1.30, then to Plockton. Passed out for a while, then did some shopping in the village, Richard and Barry arrived about 6, looking totally knackered after a day on Seana Bhraigh. We went out for a meal in Plockton, which was packed.
Sept 16: Left early, drove along the single track roads for the last time. Met a bus, then the dustbin lorry then another bus, amazing. Somehow managed to scrape past all of them. Arrived Attadale just before 9, rang the estate office no stalking taking place, so set off at 9.00. I arrived at Beinn Dronaig Bothy, after a fair amount of faffing. I used the facilities although that meant refilling the bucket and water bottle. I had some lunch there too. I then set off at 1.10 for the long drag up to Sheasgaich. Reached the summit at 3.30, in fabulous weather, superb view of the whole length of Loch Morar. I then set of for Lurg Mor, and reached the summit at 4.30. I dropped down the South side to Loch Calavie, reached the bothy at 6.45. I had a brief stop, but did not go in this time. Then carried on the long drag back to Attadale, a brief look for the path back to Achintee which I could not find. I then carried on to Attadale, which I reached at 9.45, back to Plockton at 10.30. I went in to the dining room where 4 people were still eating, a brief chat with Richard and Barry who were leaving very early the next morning. I decided not to go with them as I was feeling totally knackered. I then went back in to the Dining Room which was now empty. No doubt the group eating when I arrived had left because I looked a bit like the wild man of Borneo.
Sept 17: Richard and Barry left early, I was away a bit later, at about 9. I drove to Shiel Bridge and arrived there just after 11.00. I headed for a Corbett, Sgurr Mhic Bharrain. I set off at 11.30, moving quite slowly as I was still knackered after yesterday. I reached the summit at 3.00 and was back at the car at 4.45. I did a little bit of shopping and then drove on to Roy Bridge and met Richard and Barry at 6.15.
Sept 18. Up at 6.15, and left at 7.30, chatted to Richard, drove to Strathan, met a camper van on the Loch Arkaig Road, fortunately no more cars. Arrived at the road end just before 9 a bit of faffing while reading the notices re stalking, made up my sandwiches for the day and set off at 9.10. I was passed by a party of stalkers and we had a brief chat and found out where the stalking was taking place. Quite a relief that I was not going to be shot that day. I left the forest path, then went on to the footpath which was very boggy in parts, in one place I went up to my knees in bog at one point. I had my lunch just before the path branched off to Sgurr Na Ciche. I then pressed on over fairly easy ground and then avoided a nasty looking gully by going on the main ridge which led up from Sourlies bothy. The going became very steep and it became much colder. I put on a few more layers on plus gloves. The weather was definitely changing. I reached the summit of Na Ciche at 4.15, a huge effort. Fortunately, the next top Garbh Chioch Mhor was much closer, down to the bealach and up the other side. I was on the summit at 5. Then on to the last top, Sgurr nan Coireachan, the lowest top of the day, which I reached at 6.50. Short stop, then down the long south ridge, to rejoin my outward route. A bit of a scramble to get down before it started to go dark, which I just managed. I than had a drinks stop, and removed a few layers of clothing as it was much warmer than on the tops. Then the long walk back to Strathan, a beautiful night, the stars were so clear and plentiful. I passed a couple coming out for the week end, quite ghostly, as I could see their torch and reflective patches on their clothing from quite a long way off. I eventually reached the car at 10.05, quite a few more cars parked there since this morning, presumably week enders. I then prepared for the most worrying part of the day, the hideous drive along the north side of Loch Arkaig. Fortunately I met no vehicles coming in the opposite direction. I passed the rather strange settlements on the north side of the loch, a few fires were burning no doubt barbecuing the body of a hapless walker. I eventually reached Roy Bridge at 11.30. A long day, but now all the big Munros had been done and in good weather too.
Sept 19: A very late night-got to bed at about 1.00 am, so not feeling very lively, and not looking forward to the long drive home. Two stops to catch up on some sleep, and then a stop in Stirling to write some postcards, there, the secret is out! Then onwards South, had a ghastly fast food meal at about 5 at Keele Services. Absolutely revolting. The last stretch on the M40 was particularly testing, and I was driving extremely slowly, finally made it home at 11.45. A marathon!
Sept 13: Arrived at Torebane at 11am, and briefly chatted to a woman who asked me if this was the right to place for Gulvain. I assured her it was. I made for Gulvain’s SW ridge, and was caught up by the woman from the car park, Lena. What a talker - it was non stop. Fortunately we parted company fairly soon. I slogged up the SW ridge which took me 3 hours. I met Mrs Talkative at the South summit, she had ascended via a different route and we went on to the main summit together which we reached at 4. We dropped off to the South, very steep ground, and rejoined the outward path at about 7. I took a diplomatic pit stop to give my ears a rest and then got back to the car at 8 in daylight. Back to Roy Bridge and another late night.
Sept 14: Due at Plockton tonight, so I decided to drive straight there and do a hill there. Arrived at about 12.30, unpacked and had some lunch, then drove to Applecross and decided to do Sgurr a Charoachain. I parked at the bridge over the Russell burn, and while I was parked a chap parked his shiny new car with a shiny girlfriend in it, and took some photos and then was off, after about 2 minutes. I trogged off up the Glen and was surprised to see how much the area had changed since my last visit to the Cioch Nose with Smudge and the Captain. I left the car at 3pm, and reached the summit at 6pm, in perfect weather. I descended to the east down some steep ground, then back to the car at 7.40 and back to Plockton.
Sept 15: Drove to Strathcarron, started up the path from Achintee, on the path to Bearnais, & Lurg Mhor, but turned round after 2 hours. I felt totally knackered the result of too many late nights. Back to the car at 1.30, then to Plockton. Passed out for a while, then did some shopping in the village, Richard and Barry arrived about 6, looking totally knackered after a day on Seana Bhraigh. We went out for a meal in Plockton, which was packed.
Sept 16: Left early, drove along the single track roads for the last time. Met a bus, then the dustbin lorry then another bus, amazing. Somehow managed to scrape past all of them. Arrived Attadale just before 9, rang the estate office no stalking taking place, so set off at 9.00. I arrived at Beinn Dronaig Bothy, after a fair amount of faffing. I used the facilities although that meant refilling the bucket and water bottle. I had some lunch there too. I then set off at 1.10 for the long drag up to Sheasgaich. Reached the summit at 3.30, in fabulous weather, superb view of the whole length of Loch Morar. I then set of for Lurg Mor, and reached the summit at 4.30. I dropped down the South side to Loch Calavie, reached the bothy at 6.45. I had a brief stop, but did not go in this time. Then carried on the long drag back to Attadale, a brief look for the path back to Achintee which I could not find. I then carried on to Attadale, which I reached at 9.45, back to Plockton at 10.30. I went in to the dining room where 4 people were still eating, a brief chat with Richard and Barry who were leaving very early the next morning. I decided not to go with them as I was feeling totally knackered. I then went back in to the Dining Room which was now empty. No doubt the group eating when I arrived had left because I looked a bit like the wild man of Borneo.
Sept 17: Richard and Barry left early, I was away a bit later, at about 9. I drove to Shiel Bridge and arrived there just after 11.00. I headed for a Corbett, Sgurr Mhic Bharrain. I set off at 11.30, moving quite slowly as I was still knackered after yesterday. I reached the summit at 3.00 and was back at the car at 4.45. I did a little bit of shopping and then drove on to Roy Bridge and met Richard and Barry at 6.15.
Sept 18. Up at 6.15, and left at 7.30, chatted to Richard, drove to Strathan, met a camper van on the Loch Arkaig Road, fortunately no more cars. Arrived at the road end just before 9 a bit of faffing while reading the notices re stalking, made up my sandwiches for the day and set off at 9.10. I was passed by a party of stalkers and we had a brief chat and found out where the stalking was taking place. Quite a relief that I was not going to be shot that day. I left the forest path, then went on to the footpath which was very boggy in parts, in one place I went up to my knees in bog at one point. I had my lunch just before the path branched off to Sgurr Na Ciche. I then pressed on over fairly easy ground and then avoided a nasty looking gully by going on the main ridge which led up from Sourlies bothy. The going became very steep and it became much colder. I put on a few more layers on plus gloves. The weather was definitely changing. I reached the summit of Na Ciche at 4.15, a huge effort. Fortunately, the next top Garbh Chioch Mhor was much closer, down to the bealach and up the other side. I was on the summit at 5. Then on to the last top, Sgurr nan Coireachan, the lowest top of the day, which I reached at 6.50. Short stop, then down the long south ridge, to rejoin my outward route. A bit of a scramble to get down before it started to go dark, which I just managed. I than had a drinks stop, and removed a few layers of clothing as it was much warmer than on the tops. Then the long walk back to Strathan, a beautiful night, the stars were so clear and plentiful. I passed a couple coming out for the week end, quite ghostly, as I could see their torch and reflective patches on their clothing from quite a long way off. I eventually reached the car at 10.05, quite a few more cars parked there since this morning, presumably week enders. I then prepared for the most worrying part of the day, the hideous drive along the north side of Loch Arkaig. Fortunately I met no vehicles coming in the opposite direction. I passed the rather strange settlements on the north side of the loch, a few fires were burning no doubt barbecuing the body of a hapless walker. I eventually reached Roy Bridge at 11.30. A long day, but now all the big Munros had been done and in good weather too.
Sept 19: A very late night-got to bed at about 1.00 am, so not feeling very lively, and not looking forward to the long drive home. Two stops to catch up on some sleep, and then a stop in Stirling to write some postcards, there, the secret is out! Then onwards South, had a ghastly fast food meal at about 5 at Keele Services. Absolutely revolting. The last stretch on the M40 was particularly testing, and I was driving extremely slowly, finally made it home at 11.45. A marathon!
Glen Carron/Invergarry, May 16-25, 2009.
May 16:Received a text message from Ian the previous evening, saying he would not be coming. A very late start ensued, not helped by a shopping stop before getting on the road. Fortunately there was very little traffic on the road and no jams. I stopped at Bankfoot just north of Perth, and spent the night at Aviemore Youth hostel. The place was looking quite shabby, no investment in the fabric of the building.
May 17: Left about 8.30, drove straight to Inverlael, after refuelling in Aviemore, arrived at Inverlael at about 10.20. Set off about 20 minutes later, feeling that this was rather late for such a big day. Fortunately there was an excellent path for half the way, and had lunch when it came to an end. Then over some quite complex ground, descending to the col, and then ascended to the South summit and reached the main summit at 3.30. Left the main summit at 3.45, and got back to the car at 7.30, just one other car left in the car park when I got back. I stopped at the Aultguish for an excellent evening meal, & then on to the Ledgowan Lodge Bunkhouse which was to be my home for the rest of the week.
May 18: Drove to Craig and left the car park at 9.45, again a bit late for such a big mountain, dawdled on the excellent path and did not reach Glenuaig until 12.45. As it then started to rain and there was a shelter next to the cottage, I had an early lunch. I then headed down to the stream and started the long drag up to the summit. I passed quite a few people coming down, in increasingly wet weather. The last section from the col below the final pull to the summit was in constant rain. I thought of returning by Carn nan Fiaclan, but decided against as time was pressing, so returned by the route of ascent, back to Glenuaig by 6.20. Decided to put the foot down, back to Craig within 2 hours in constant rain, which brought on a severe grump and a late meal.
May 19: Beautiful day, headed for Sgurr Choinnich and Sgurr a Chaorachain. To Craig again, a bit earlier this time, left at 9.45, and got to the wire bridge at 10.40. A bit of faffing to find the path leading to the bealach. Soon realised the reason why-I had crossed by a bridge not marked on the OS map which was about 400 metres north of the bridge I should have crossed by….. or should I? I then took the excellent path to the bealach, where I had lunch in a rather chilly wind at about 12.50. Then I pushed on to Choinnich, which I reached after a succession of false summits at 2.30, then on to Chaorachain, which I reached an hour later. I played with the idea of going on to Beinn an Eoin Dearg which looked magnificent, but headed straight down off the summit to the glen where the river was little more than a trickle so no tricky river crossing. Back to Craig at 7.00 after walking down the track in superb sunshine. Alas there was to be little more of this….
May 20: Decided to head for Beinn Eighe and Speidean nan Clach, re acquainting myself with the mountain which I had last visited with Ian 17 years earlier. I stopped off in Kinlochewe to do some shopping & met Tom Forrest who I stayed with in January. We had a chat and I then head off to left the ling Hut Car Park which I left at 10.00 in unpromising conditions. I reached Loch Choire Mhic Fhearcair at about 12.15. I found a pretty chilly lunch stop at the head of the loch, but did not linger. I then headed for the ascent up the scree slope to the summit plateau, with the clouds quite low. I pressed on to Spidean which to my delight was clear, making sure I went to the proper summit, which I reached at 4. I then plunged down the scree slopes, but the wrist loop of my one of my pole was flapping uselessly-the screw holding it in had come adrift. Carried on after doing a minor repair, and reached the car park after getting on to the ascent path after crossing the burn.
May 21: Rest Day. Drove to Gairloch, Poolewe, attempted to go on a boat trip from Gairloch, they would not go out, too windy. Stopped of at what had been the Loch Maree Hotel, investigated a bat trip to other side f loch.
May 22. Last day in bunkhouse. Packed everything up and left at 7.30, set off from Craig at 7.55.started raining at 8.30, and carried on and on….Crossed stream by “correct” bridge. It was awful, ropes sagging like an old washing line, swaying all over the place. Made one attempt, went back, tried again, and then managed to put my boot in the stream about ¾ of the way across after performing ridiculous contortions to stay upright. I joined the path to the bealach and soon every bit of clothing was sodden, I made it up to the base of Tharsuinn, and then decided the whole episode was futile and retreated. I met the couple from the bunkhouse on the way down, got to the stream and had lunch. Mercifully it had stopped raining. I felt warm for the first time that day. I crossed stream by the other bridge about 20 minutes downstream, much better. I ambled my way back to the Craig, and arrived there at 4.15. Drove back to Achnasheen spent that night in the hotel, bliss, luxury, warmth, dried my clothes in their drying room.
May 23: Left the Ledgowan Hotel just after 9, drove to Glen Quoich, and a long drive along the Glen. Started off at 12.30, it started raining after about an hour, and got to the top in awful weather, decided to descend by the corrie to the North of the mountain. Went too far to the West, so had to ascend some ground before reaching the bealach. Then started the long descent to the River Quoich, I got to the confluence with the river, water on 2 sides, nowhere to cross. The OS had printed a path crossing the Allt Coire a Chaorrain about 400 metres from the confluence. Quite impossible to cross with the river in spate. I had to walk quite a long way back up the stream abut fortunately found somewhere and then headed down the opposite bank. After that no more drama, back to the car at 7.30, Invergarry at 8.30.
May 24: Last day on the hills. Back along Glen Quoich, but not so far as yesterday. Left the car at 10.00, stopped at 11.30 for a bite, then put on the waterproof clothing, yet more rain. I was passed by one couple who I met again on the summit of Gleouraich. We had a longish chat; they decided to go back, a sensible decision. I stupidly carried on to Spidean Mialach, could not see a thing, arrived at the top of Spidean. Took a compass bearing then copuld not get my gloves back on as they and my hands were so wet. I started the descent, which became more and more squelchier, one tricky river crossing though nothing like as bad as yesterday’s. Back to the car at 4.45, had some food, and changed my clothes. Then started the long drive to Dave’s house, got there at about 7. Went for a walk with Dave and his dog Shady, who we very nearly lost, in fact I had given him up. He had been rooting round for rabbits. Back to DP’s house, bliss to be in a warm house and a comfortable bed.
May 25: Left DP’s house at about 9 in the cold and wet, but stopped in Stirling and it must have been at least 10 degrees warmer. Summer had arrived! Then went on the long drive South got back to Maidenbower after 9, in the rain again! A good week, but a wet one.
May 17: Left about 8.30, drove straight to Inverlael, after refuelling in Aviemore, arrived at Inverlael at about 10.20. Set off about 20 minutes later, feeling that this was rather late for such a big day. Fortunately there was an excellent path for half the way, and had lunch when it came to an end. Then over some quite complex ground, descending to the col, and then ascended to the South summit and reached the main summit at 3.30. Left the main summit at 3.45, and got back to the car at 7.30, just one other car left in the car park when I got back. I stopped at the Aultguish for an excellent evening meal, & then on to the Ledgowan Lodge Bunkhouse which was to be my home for the rest of the week.
May 18: Drove to Craig and left the car park at 9.45, again a bit late for such a big mountain, dawdled on the excellent path and did not reach Glenuaig until 12.45. As it then started to rain and there was a shelter next to the cottage, I had an early lunch. I then headed down to the stream and started the long drag up to the summit. I passed quite a few people coming down, in increasingly wet weather. The last section from the col below the final pull to the summit was in constant rain. I thought of returning by Carn nan Fiaclan, but decided against as time was pressing, so returned by the route of ascent, back to Glenuaig by 6.20. Decided to put the foot down, back to Craig within 2 hours in constant rain, which brought on a severe grump and a late meal.
May 19: Beautiful day, headed for Sgurr Choinnich and Sgurr a Chaorachain. To Craig again, a bit earlier this time, left at 9.45, and got to the wire bridge at 10.40. A bit of faffing to find the path leading to the bealach. Soon realised the reason why-I had crossed by a bridge not marked on the OS map which was about 400 metres north of the bridge I should have crossed by….. or should I? I then took the excellent path to the bealach, where I had lunch in a rather chilly wind at about 12.50. Then I pushed on to Choinnich, which I reached after a succession of false summits at 2.30, then on to Chaorachain, which I reached an hour later. I played with the idea of going on to Beinn an Eoin Dearg which looked magnificent, but headed straight down off the summit to the glen where the river was little more than a trickle so no tricky river crossing. Back to Craig at 7.00 after walking down the track in superb sunshine. Alas there was to be little more of this….
May 20: Decided to head for Beinn Eighe and Speidean nan Clach, re acquainting myself with the mountain which I had last visited with Ian 17 years earlier. I stopped off in Kinlochewe to do some shopping & met Tom Forrest who I stayed with in January. We had a chat and I then head off to left the ling Hut Car Park which I left at 10.00 in unpromising conditions. I reached Loch Choire Mhic Fhearcair at about 12.15. I found a pretty chilly lunch stop at the head of the loch, but did not linger. I then headed for the ascent up the scree slope to the summit plateau, with the clouds quite low. I pressed on to Spidean which to my delight was clear, making sure I went to the proper summit, which I reached at 4. I then plunged down the scree slopes, but the wrist loop of my one of my pole was flapping uselessly-the screw holding it in had come adrift. Carried on after doing a minor repair, and reached the car park after getting on to the ascent path after crossing the burn.
May 21: Rest Day. Drove to Gairloch, Poolewe, attempted to go on a boat trip from Gairloch, they would not go out, too windy. Stopped of at what had been the Loch Maree Hotel, investigated a bat trip to other side f loch.
May 22. Last day in bunkhouse. Packed everything up and left at 7.30, set off from Craig at 7.55.started raining at 8.30, and carried on and on….Crossed stream by “correct” bridge. It was awful, ropes sagging like an old washing line, swaying all over the place. Made one attempt, went back, tried again, and then managed to put my boot in the stream about ¾ of the way across after performing ridiculous contortions to stay upright. I joined the path to the bealach and soon every bit of clothing was sodden, I made it up to the base of Tharsuinn, and then decided the whole episode was futile and retreated. I met the couple from the bunkhouse on the way down, got to the stream and had lunch. Mercifully it had stopped raining. I felt warm for the first time that day. I crossed stream by the other bridge about 20 minutes downstream, much better. I ambled my way back to the Craig, and arrived there at 4.15. Drove back to Achnasheen spent that night in the hotel, bliss, luxury, warmth, dried my clothes in their drying room.
May 23: Left the Ledgowan Hotel just after 9, drove to Glen Quoich, and a long drive along the Glen. Started off at 12.30, it started raining after about an hour, and got to the top in awful weather, decided to descend by the corrie to the North of the mountain. Went too far to the West, so had to ascend some ground before reaching the bealach. Then started the long descent to the River Quoich, I got to the confluence with the river, water on 2 sides, nowhere to cross. The OS had printed a path crossing the Allt Coire a Chaorrain about 400 metres from the confluence. Quite impossible to cross with the river in spate. I had to walk quite a long way back up the stream abut fortunately found somewhere and then headed down the opposite bank. After that no more drama, back to the car at 7.30, Invergarry at 8.30.
May 24: Last day on the hills. Back along Glen Quoich, but not so far as yesterday. Left the car at 10.00, stopped at 11.30 for a bite, then put on the waterproof clothing, yet more rain. I was passed by one couple who I met again on the summit of Gleouraich. We had a longish chat; they decided to go back, a sensible decision. I stupidly carried on to Spidean Mialach, could not see a thing, arrived at the top of Spidean. Took a compass bearing then copuld not get my gloves back on as they and my hands were so wet. I started the descent, which became more and more squelchier, one tricky river crossing though nothing like as bad as yesterday’s. Back to the car at 4.45, had some food, and changed my clothes. Then started the long drive to Dave’s house, got there at about 7. Went for a walk with Dave and his dog Shady, who we very nearly lost, in fact I had given him up. He had been rooting round for rabbits. Back to DP’s house, bliss to be in a warm house and a comfortable bed.
May 25: Left DP’s house at about 9 in the cold and wet, but stopped in Stirling and it must have been at least 10 degrees warmer. Summer had arrived! Then went on the long drive South got back to Maidenbower after 9, in the rain again! A good week, but a wet one.
Kinlochewe January 10-17, 2009.
Jan 10: Left home at 8.30, no jams on the drive, one advantage of going North in January. I stopped in Aviemore for an evening meal, wishing that I was staying there, as I was nearly at the end of my tether, but staggered on to Inverness, and stayed at Inverness Youth Hostel, not a good venue. In fact it bought out a strong attack of grumpiness. I filled out to their comments card with a long list. No doubt they will file it in the bin.
Jan 11: Drove on to Kinlochewe, then to Diabaig in pretty poor weather. Mark decided to stay in Diabaig and look around the village, while I walked to Craig, formerly a YH now a bothy, met a rather odd character, possibly a professional bothier. As I prepared to leave, I opened the door of the bothy and a blast of warm air hit me. Very strange. I went back in very warm weather, back to the car at about 3.30, drove over a rather hairy road, fortunately in the daylight (just) to Kinlochewe and our B&B.
Jan 12: Again, not a very nice day, but up for breakfast at 8, in the dark, and drove to Achnasheen. I set off for Fionn Bheinn in rather nasty weather - damp, and windy. I left the car at 9.15, and successfully found the ridge, no snow and then mad for the summit in misty, wet conditions reached the top at about12.30. I descended by the East Ridge and then headed south after negotiating one fence and one gate. Walked back to the car along the road, a good day, back at the car at about 3.40.
Jan 13: Mark’s last day, I decided on Slioch and he did a hill just to the SE. We left Incheril at 9.30 and walked together for bout half an hour before parting. I then carried on to the bridge over the river, and then made for the lowest point on the skyline and into Coire na Sleaghaich. I then pulled up steep ground to the North of the lochans, and then reached a false summit with a cairn, no sign of a trig and then the clouds cleared and saw some rather steep ground ahead. Fortunately it was a short pull and reached the South top soon after. I then carried on to the North top after a short fall and rise which I reached at 1.30. I turned round and returned by the route of ascent, stopped for some lunch at the head of the corrie, and carried on in a snow fall to the bridge over the stream. I carried on over various streams and managed to fall over while crossing one and gave myself a clip behind the ear courtesy of a strategically placed rock. I made it to the car park at about 4.45, just as the light was going. Quick change and then took Mark to the station, and he had the train to himself.
Jan 14: Good forecast, headed over to Beinn Alligin, set off at about 9.45 from the car park beyond Torridon House. Beautiful morning, the tops in full view for a change. I followed the stream into the heart of the corrie, and met someone coming down. I had a brief chat - he had come over from Inverness that morning and had to get back to go to work in the afternoon. I carried on to the summit which I reached at about 12.40, quite surprised to be there so early. I set off for the col between the 2 summits, but had a bit of faffing to get off the summit block, one blind alley and then had to back track. I was faced with an easy looking descent which was horribly exposed, with a short cut to the floor of the corrie about 2000 feet below. Not surprisingly. I decided on a different route. I then stopped at the col for a bit of lunch, but only stopped very briefly as it was extremely cold. I carried on to Sgurr Mhor, but stopped as my hands were getting very cold. I put on my warmest pair of gloves and felt much better. I made it to the top at 2.30. I then started to think it might have been better to have started a little bit earlier, as I had only 2 hours of daylight to get over the Horns of Alligin, and did not know a) how many there were and b) how difficult the terrain was. I descended rapidly to the foot of the first Horn, and started to ascend as quickly as possible. It was very straightforward at first and then a few unorthodox moves followed, knees played a large part. I ended up on one ledge, like a fish landed on a river bank. I made it to the top, then down and up to the next horn was straightforward and less of a rise and fall. I now took off some clothing and put on a thinner pair of gloves. I descend to the foot of the third and last horn and decided to skirt the top as time was pressing, and was relieved to see easy ground ahead. I attempted a descent to the East, as Tom in the B&B had suggested, but decided to carry on due South. I soon picked up the main path, and reached the bridge over the stream at about 5 and had a second lunch, and took off some layers. I then carried on the car park which I reached at about 5.40. A great day.
Jan 15: Strong winds forecast, so I decided to keep low. The first time since Sunday when I had not taken the crampons which I had not used at all. I drove to the Ling Hut car park and then headed to Corrie Mhic Fhearcair. At times the wind was very strong, and it was a real struggle to make progress. Just as well I was not on the tops. I made it into the corrie and had a look at the amazing Triple Buttress. I contoured round the foot of Ruadh Stac Mor, looking for a possible alternative route up the mountain on my next visit. After a spot of lunch, I headed east and was pleased to pick up a path almost immediately, which unfortunately disappeared from time to time. After about 2 hours I picked up the main path, and started the long descent into Kinlochewe. I got back to the house just after it had got dark. Tom very kindly gave me a lift to the car park where I picked up the car.
Jan 16/17: The weather forecast was for more of the same, so I decided to head South. A brief stop in Aviemore to write and post some cards and I spent the night in Arnside, after receiving the terrible news about Steve Dale. I left early the next day, and got home at about 4.30. A great week.
Jan 11: Drove on to Kinlochewe, then to Diabaig in pretty poor weather. Mark decided to stay in Diabaig and look around the village, while I walked to Craig, formerly a YH now a bothy, met a rather odd character, possibly a professional bothier. As I prepared to leave, I opened the door of the bothy and a blast of warm air hit me. Very strange. I went back in very warm weather, back to the car at about 3.30, drove over a rather hairy road, fortunately in the daylight (just) to Kinlochewe and our B&B.
Jan 12: Again, not a very nice day, but up for breakfast at 8, in the dark, and drove to Achnasheen. I set off for Fionn Bheinn in rather nasty weather - damp, and windy. I left the car at 9.15, and successfully found the ridge, no snow and then mad for the summit in misty, wet conditions reached the top at about12.30. I descended by the East Ridge and then headed south after negotiating one fence and one gate. Walked back to the car along the road, a good day, back at the car at about 3.40.
Jan 13: Mark’s last day, I decided on Slioch and he did a hill just to the SE. We left Incheril at 9.30 and walked together for bout half an hour before parting. I then carried on to the bridge over the river, and then made for the lowest point on the skyline and into Coire na Sleaghaich. I then pulled up steep ground to the North of the lochans, and then reached a false summit with a cairn, no sign of a trig and then the clouds cleared and saw some rather steep ground ahead. Fortunately it was a short pull and reached the South top soon after. I then carried on to the North top after a short fall and rise which I reached at 1.30. I turned round and returned by the route of ascent, stopped for some lunch at the head of the corrie, and carried on in a snow fall to the bridge over the stream. I carried on over various streams and managed to fall over while crossing one and gave myself a clip behind the ear courtesy of a strategically placed rock. I made it to the car park at about 4.45, just as the light was going. Quick change and then took Mark to the station, and he had the train to himself.
Jan 14: Good forecast, headed over to Beinn Alligin, set off at about 9.45 from the car park beyond Torridon House. Beautiful morning, the tops in full view for a change. I followed the stream into the heart of the corrie, and met someone coming down. I had a brief chat - he had come over from Inverness that morning and had to get back to go to work in the afternoon. I carried on to the summit which I reached at about 12.40, quite surprised to be there so early. I set off for the col between the 2 summits, but had a bit of faffing to get off the summit block, one blind alley and then had to back track. I was faced with an easy looking descent which was horribly exposed, with a short cut to the floor of the corrie about 2000 feet below. Not surprisingly. I decided on a different route. I then stopped at the col for a bit of lunch, but only stopped very briefly as it was extremely cold. I carried on to Sgurr Mhor, but stopped as my hands were getting very cold. I put on my warmest pair of gloves and felt much better. I made it to the top at 2.30. I then started to think it might have been better to have started a little bit earlier, as I had only 2 hours of daylight to get over the Horns of Alligin, and did not know a) how many there were and b) how difficult the terrain was. I descended rapidly to the foot of the first Horn, and started to ascend as quickly as possible. It was very straightforward at first and then a few unorthodox moves followed, knees played a large part. I ended up on one ledge, like a fish landed on a river bank. I made it to the top, then down and up to the next horn was straightforward and less of a rise and fall. I now took off some clothing and put on a thinner pair of gloves. I descend to the foot of the third and last horn and decided to skirt the top as time was pressing, and was relieved to see easy ground ahead. I attempted a descent to the East, as Tom in the B&B had suggested, but decided to carry on due South. I soon picked up the main path, and reached the bridge over the stream at about 5 and had a second lunch, and took off some layers. I then carried on the car park which I reached at about 5.40. A great day.
Jan 15: Strong winds forecast, so I decided to keep low. The first time since Sunday when I had not taken the crampons which I had not used at all. I drove to the Ling Hut car park and then headed to Corrie Mhic Fhearcair. At times the wind was very strong, and it was a real struggle to make progress. Just as well I was not on the tops. I made it into the corrie and had a look at the amazing Triple Buttress. I contoured round the foot of Ruadh Stac Mor, looking for a possible alternative route up the mountain on my next visit. After a spot of lunch, I headed east and was pleased to pick up a path almost immediately, which unfortunately disappeared from time to time. After about 2 hours I picked up the main path, and started the long descent into Kinlochewe. I got back to the house just after it had got dark. Tom very kindly gave me a lift to the car park where I picked up the car.
Jan 16/17: The weather forecast was for more of the same, so I decided to head South. A brief stop in Aviemore to write and post some cards and I spent the night in Arnside, after receiving the terrible news about Steve Dale. I left early the next day, and got home at about 4.30. A great week.
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