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This is technically hill number two of my personal quest to play my pipes on as many munros as possible, with my ascent of Ben Lomond ruined by cloud last month, but with the day I had, it is hard not to think of this being the day it all began!
As I hopefully work through the munros in the coming years, I hope to "bag my pipes" then "bag the munros" and if today was anything to go by, it is going to be a fun ride.
The day started in Bishopbriggs, with the snooze button getting hit several times. Work was awaiting me at 5pm, and I was still lying in bed at 9am wondering what to do with my day. I looked out, saw it was a glorious day, and thought, lets do it. I packed my bag, and off I went.
It was 1130 by the time I got to the car at Succoth, and I have to admit, I was a bit worried I wouldnt make the top and get back in time for work.
I was able to make good time, and before I knew it I was looking back at Loch Long and it all seemed very far away. I had done this hill previously (pipeless), so wasnt stopping as often for pictures, the one I wanted was at the top!
The climb was fairly uneventful, a little scrambling here and there, and a couple snowy patches. As I came towards the final 100m or so, things began to get a little tricky in the snow, but fortunately I was able to make it to the top.
I unpacked my pipes, put on my kilt, and let rip a couple of tunes. Being by myself, I was relying on someone being there to film and photograph. Fortunately out of nowhere, a friendly Irish chap emerged, he said he thought he was going mad when he heard the pipes. He was very excited, and was kind enough to record me.
![Narnain piping.jpg]()
- Piping at the top of Ben Narnain
I couldnt stay too long, as much as I wanted to stay and watch the sunset, I set to get down. I managed to get to the car park for half 3, and was showered and at work in Bearsden bang on five! Work was a bit of a crash down to earth after a surreal day in the mountain. But the memories of being among the hills, and fresh air, was enough to motivate me through, and have me planning my next munro bagpiping adventure.
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