forecast for the morning was quite not bad, we couldnt have wasted such opportunity, anyway we loved assynt so much, we wanted to prolong the trip as much as possible.
i wasnt really sure what to think about the idea of climbing stac pollaidh. dont get me wrong, i loved the idea, but wasnt too sure what my legs will say when told to climb another mountain on the very next day after 20km and 10hrs suilven walk (legs didnt complain too much, after all.. muted by hiking boots)
we left lochinver early morning, drove by coastal road to aird of coigach, and then to stac pollaidh. the road slowed us down a little so for a moment i thought i will probably never get to stac pollaidh.
you cant miss stac pollaidh car park, though the scenery makes you look around, generally at higher level than the car park and passing places
path to stac pollaidh is very good - stoned and very dry. i read that it is recommended to encircle the mountain, going up on the east side of it. very good idea indeed, east side is steeper and you'll gain height easier and quicker, what is more, it is always better for your knees to come down easier, gentler way.
we reached the summit ridge after just 1.5hrs. unfortunately very strong wind discouraged us from tackling the very summit and the narrow airy ridge up towards it. i do regret it very much
but the wind was too strong, i actually struggled to stay straight on my feet, not to mention climbing narrow, exposed ridge up. hazy morning views towards stac pollaidh
from the car park, nice jagged ridge
as i mentioned, the path is nicely done, would give it a 'bog factor' zero really
suilven, we climbed this monster just day before
almost on the ridge
inverpolly
towards ben mor coigach
exploring the ridge, still hoping it will be possible to tackle the summit
ok, i give up. at least we could climb eastern summit no problem
very last glimpses towards the beautiful mountains
and if you wish to see some more pics, visit http://around-scotland.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/trip-to-assynt-stac-pollaidh.html
cheers and enjoy!
Ela
