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We were trying to keep the cost of our trips to the Highlands this year within acceptable limits so thought we’d try camping. Took one look at the campsite at Taagen [admittedly in the pouring rain] and checked into the 5* bunkhouse at the Kinlochewe Hotel. It was warm and dry and generally clean provided you didn’t look anywhere too closely – particularly the kitchen – it was the smell though – that sweaty sock smell that seems to envelope and cling. However, at £13.50 per night I shouldn’t grumble, but a bit of a come-down from spending the week in the Tigh an Eileen Hotel, Shieldaig a few years ago. Anyway, needs be etc etc. Dinner was good, but pricey given the jaded hotel surroundings.
Awoke to a gloriously sunny morning and porridge courtesy of Neill. Took us ages to repack the car: firstly, we bring far too much; secondly, we are not quick first thing in the morning – or second thing!
Made the short journey to the Incheril car park and eventually managed to get underway just after 9:00 by which time it was warm and feeling very humid. It was a very pleasant walk along the Kinlochewe River and Loch Marie, although it crossed our minds that it not be quite so on the way back. Paused by the bridge crossing the Abhainn an Ehasaigh before making our way alongside for a way – lovely waterfalls.
The going was easy at first, but soon steepened and was hard work in the sun. As is always the case, Neill found the going tough uphill on the first day so just short of Coire na Sleaghaich we stopped for food.
Neill refuelled ………….. on pork pies, what else!
It became slightly overcast as we entered the bowl-like corrie and made towards the far end. It looked very steep from a distance, but on getting closer we could see that the path took an easier line and then zigzagged towards the top.
It was the hidden rise to make the summit that was the psychological killer! It was considerably cooler on the summit, but the was weather fine and the views worth the effort.
- Waiting for scraps!
Had some lunch and wandered over to the north top for views of Fisherfield; our nemesis back in April. It is worth the short walk to the north top as there is a wonderful vista from west to east and through the gap to An Teallach.
We then made our way along the ridge between the north top and Sgurr an Tuill Bhain; best bit of the day – marvellous views to the north.
Now down – ugh! Was steep, but OK; however, by the time we’d reach the bottom of the slope, my right knee had given a few warning twinges. Time for some ibuprofen and waterproofs. Rejoined the path in, but halfway down the second steep bit my right knee was giving me problems. Thankfully as soon as we started on flat(ish) ground the pain ceased – as it always does – and the sun came out again
. Sure enough, the walk from the bridge back along the loch and river to the car seemed a lot further than the same walk in the morning.
Thought about returning to the bunkhouse ………….. 3 seconds later we decided to see if there was any room in the [Torridon] Inn (not the Country Hotel). Got a room – luxury – ahhhhhhh! A shower and decent (much cheaper) meal later and all was right with the world once again.
