Revisited again, 13.10.16. This time taking route up Meall Cuanail. I remember passing two, young Australian lassie's, who looked a bit underprepared, in trainers and 'fashionwear.' One said they had a map, as the other said they didn't. Turned out the map was a bit of tourist leaflet
It was evident they hadn't pre-studied the route and weren't too aware of expected weather, of strong, cold wind, however they did seem to appreciate my advice that today would not be a day to do the ridge. They said they'd just take a wander round and have a look at the dam. Afterwards, I felt a bit guilty at leaving them to their own devices, but hoped the first real blasts of wind, would make decisions for them
In fact, going up Meall Cuanail wasn't too bad, until about 50 yards from the summit, when very quickly, the wind blasted from nowhere, to make it a not so nice place to be. It was hard to even stay still to take photo's, so didn't wait long before heading to Bealach an Lochan. Quite steep and rocky going down there. Fortunately, wind relented about half way up BC. It's awkward going over these boulders and gusts don't help much. Vis a bit variable at the top, so quickly dispelled any notions of going right round the ridge, but I had enjoyed the hike. Passed a family with a few kids on my way down. Rather them than me, but they all seemed confident and enjoying themselves. Came back via Coire Dearg and round the reservoir. Not sure what they were working on, at west end of dam?
All in took 4.75 hrs, for the 6.75 miles and 1234m of ascent.