Limbering up on Am Bathach

[old danensian]

Two hill days on the trot is normally enough for my ageing legs so, when a weather window stretches away for three, and coincides with the July walkhighlands meet in Kintail, it’s going to be about conserving energy.

“Enjoy, don’t endure” is a hill maxim I try to live by. Sandwiching a big day between a pair of supposedly shorter ones was therefore going to be the obvious strategy: Am Bathach would be the starting solution.

Although it’s straightforward, short and uncomplicated, it’s still a hill well worth putting the effort into; a sample of the surroundings on offer.

A rusty welcome - and in such conditions, no navigation required

A shy A Chralaig watches from across the glen - the cloud level indicating the Corbett decision was correct

The normal destination for those crossing the whaleback of Am Bathach - Ciste Dubh lurks beyond

Once resting peacefully on the close-cropped grass of the summit, temptation winked. It revealed just enough, as if beckoning with an alluring “come-on.” After all, Ciste Dubh is one of my favourite Munros. With a child-like simplicity, it’s pointy. Perched between Affric and Kintail, where better to sit and test your knowledge and memory of the surrounding hills.

But I resisted. There were more miles to go over the weekend - more plans afoot - Friday night burn-out is not a good sign.

Bealach a Choinich and a glimpse of hills further to the north west - a gentle descent

Descent down An Caorann Beag to The Cluanie building site

Remains of a sheepfold on the other side of the glen - One Man and His Dog eat your heart out - that would be some fetch

With a view down Loch Cluanie, the walk ends gently and the long, low ridge of Beinn Loine fills the horizon. If day two isn't too punishing, maybe …

Beinn Loine stretches across the horizon behind Loch Cluanie

Now, where are the midges?