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A drive of over five hours
would see us at the car park just beyond Torridon Village for our ascent of Beinn Alligin.
The weather for Torridon was to be dry but cold and windy for our trip, planned several weeks before.
My friend on this trip was testing her ice axe and crampons for the first time so safety took precedence over any
pre-determined goals or summit bagging. Weather and conditions were kind to us for most of the ascent and for
her first walk with winter kit she was doing very well and loving the grip and stability of the crampons
Winds became quite strong as we approached the first summit of the day, Tom na Gruagaich, 922m.
We couldn’t even stop for a photo due to the bitter cold wind and continued down the other side for some shelter,
a photo and a bite to eat. We huddled together in the lee of a large boulder to enjoy some much needed food and drink.
Looking back up towards Tom na Gruagaich
Our views ahead of the ridge walk to to Eag Dubh and Sgurr Mhor with the horns in the distance.
Off again and heading downhill before the ascent to the summit of our second Munro of the day, Sgurr Mhor 986m.
Before the summit however we passed the dramatic gully of Eag Dubh (can you see the face?)
As we reached it we were blasted with gale force winds hammering up the gully showering us with fine particles of ice cutting into our faces whatever direction we faced. Getting a photo here was quite a task but with camera soaked and faces stinging we managed a few
Onto the summit now and decision time!
Should we make the journey over to the horns or retrace our steps.
The unknown difficulty of the horns was a concern to us in the wintry conditions, realising that if we reached them
and decided not to tackle them then our journey back would be partly in darkness.
Decision was made to leave them for another day and be content with our two Munros.
Views opened up only briefly for us during the day tempting us back in better weather.
We arrived back at the Torridon Inn (highly recommended) having taken advantage of their cut price room offer
where we could relax and recover, more from the early start (3.00am) than any difficulty on the hills.
We had a most relaxing, enjoyable evening compared to the alternative long drive home.
An enjoyable first visit for us both to the Torridon hills!
Another one that will definitely be repeated!
David
