Natacha, Tansy, Chris and David enjoyed a superb day out on Conival and Ben More Assynt. Dry and sunny weather allowed for a pleasant walk along the river Traligill which was followed by a decidedly sweaty climb to the bealach. From there, they followed the rocky ridge to the summit of Conival where they had a quick snack before making their way to Ben More Assynt. A soaring eagle was spotted; they enjoyed uninterrupted views to Ben Loyal, the Beinn Dearg group, Assynt hills, Fannichs… We arrived back to Inchnadamph with over an half an hour to spare and finished our sandwiches by the river Traligill, while being serenaded with pleasant birdsongs. What a day!

Paul, Malcolm, Fiona, Ros and Corinne, hiked up Quinag – unbelievably perfect day for hiking! Very little breeze and midges and plenty of sun. Managed to do 3 peaks and even back to the bus with time to spare! Great day. Ros and Corinne hiked enthusiastically for the first two hills – Spidean Coinich and Sail Garbh but decided to sunbathe and blether and admire the view at the top of Sail Garbh. Fiona joined us with her two beautiful border collie dogs and after a while she felt the urge to push on to Sail Ghorm. Ros and Corinne blethered some more and then hiked enthusiastically back down to the bus!! Felt like we had a “mini holiday”!!

Craig, Mike and Josh also walked Quinag. Beautiful weather so good shorts were donned after only 10 mins! Reached the first summit to meet with stupendous views of Assynt, its coastline and islands. They battled off up to the central peak and then on to Sail Ghorm for more amazing views. Pity the day had to end. Brilliant day, excellent company!! Josh adds – great day, really enjoyed it and whet the appetite for more of Assynt. Thank you!

Brent and Graham, the day started well, blue skies and a big yellow thing in the sky and the bus was on time! Unfortunately, due to a navigating error (not paying attention!), we missed our drop off and ended up at Inchnadamph. Up the track and back down (wrong side) we finally started ascending towards our destination. Bidding adieu to Natacha and party we headed off over the boggy rough terrain to the bealach between Conival and Breabag. By this time, we were aware it was unlikely we’d return to do South Ridge of Conival. A trudge in the boiling sun found us on the ridge – the views were magnificent. We walked around the escarpment to the east of Breabag ridge, some fabulous rock formations and no clue about geology between us (AndyB, where are you when we need you….!!) Lunch in an idyllic spot and a quick phone call to Corinne telling her we would head down to our original starting point! Down the hill and an exploration of the bone caves – not much to see but still site of fascination. A pint in Ullapool – now sitting in the bus with a sea of glowing red faces (and heads!) in front of me. Maybe the Club should sell sun cream……!!

Sue, started at end car park, walked around and up Glas Bheinn and back to Inchnadamph. Very good weather, good hike, saw lots of frogs!

Donna and Hilary, walked to the highest waterfall starting at Loch na Gainmich, indistinct rocky, boggy path, lovely picnic by Loch Bealach Bhuirich, too scared to look over the edge when we finally got there!!

Author: Extracts from Book of Climbs
Photos: David BD and Natacha