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Walkers: Nev, Neill, Martin
Took Dan to Inverness for the 7.55 to Kings Cross and then back to the cottage and a welcoming bowl of porridge.
Was shaping up to be a warm, pleasant day – we didn’t fancy an epic so settled for Ben Wyvis. Although the hill is imposing it is not in the inspiring league; but I had read that owing to its relative isolation the views from the top [on a good day] were worth the climb.
Was warm walking through the forestry and we hoped for a breeze as we got to the foot of An Cabar – wish granted.
I’m not overly keen on made-up paths, but understand the need on routes that are heavily used. It made the going easy. The ‘staircase’ section made the steep sections straight forward if a little hard on the legs.
Saw some Ptarmigan – still some of their winter plumage remaining - they were not quite as keen on posing as the Dotterel we saw the day before.
The RAF dropped by below us through Bealach Mor to shatter the quiet. For a moment only. I’m sure they have a great time weaving through the glens.
We were soon approaching the first top and saw a pair of Ravens near the top of An Cabar – time to stop for a bit and have some lunch.
Then on to the top – wonderful walking – almost on air. It’s as if someone came up to mow the grass – you could have a game of cricket up here, although boundaries could be problematic. At the top – wonderful views, although we could see the forerunner of tomorrow’s wet weather on the way. More pics and food and then on our way down.
I was not looking forward to going down as long, steep, knee-jarring descents have played havoc with my legs in the past (Aonach Eagach and Sgurr a’Mhaim). But, to my surprise my little flatland pins held up well and we were walking out through the forestry in no time.
Total time around 6¼hours with about 30 mins for stops.