free to be able to rate and comment on reports (as well as access 1:25000 mapping).
A week in a chalet at Mellon Udrigle in late October could be considered a bold or foolish choice. The fact that the electricity was included in the price convinced me and, as it turned out, Ceol na Mara proved to be a cosy base for exploring a favourite region.
Each morning a heron came to find breakfast in a sea pool nearby.
The weather wasn't great but, occasionally, we had that wonderful view up from Ben Mor Coigach to Foinaven and, inland, to An Teallach with its outlier Sail Mhor.
A day of rain on Tuesday gave way to a slightly better looking morning so we headed for Ardessie on Little Loch Broom. One look at the volume of water flowing under the bridge convinced us to ignore the track up the East side of the Allt Airdeasaidh and find a way up the West side. We parked at the water treatment plant just west of the bridge and made our way up and across to rejoin the burn.
Choosing the trackless west side proved one of our better ideas. Not only did we avoid an unpleasant crossing further up - we got the best of the views of the rather impressive waterfalls in the gorge of the burn
From the top of the gorge we chose a gradual ascending traverse to the col between Ruigh Mheallain and Sail Mhor. I find it easiest to do this by picking a point about 100 yards ahead and a bit above me, walking to it, then repeating the process. Here's the best view we had whilst doing this!
From the col the ridge up to Sail Mhor was pleasant and would give some fine views on a better day
From the summit the view out to the Summer Isles is reputed to be lovely. I'll believe that - at least we saw some of it
We found a way off which I'd spotted on the way up and descended the East side of the hill . Only recommended in clear weather to those confident in finding their own way on steepish ground!
Near the end of the walk I suddenly realised I'd better get a photo of the hill - so here it is
The falls are well worth a visit even if you don't intend climbing the hill. On the west side there are some good places to look into the gorge without having to risk life and limb. Just like this
