The weather promised “sub-optimal” conditions all weekend so Joe managed to make the most of the bearable weather. Recently having succumbed to bagging fever he managed both Ben Challum and Ben Mheadhoin before arriving at the Alex Macintyre Memorial Hut in Ballachulish.

With 70mph gusts forecasted for the Saturday, no bold routes were planned on Friday night. The “baby buckle” (Buachaille Etive Beag) was in order for Adele, Adrian, Sheena, David and Minnie. Despite Adele being adamant they should leave at 2200 for the supposed weather window, 12 hours later they left. Adrian realised he had an appointment with his van half way up, and Sheena decided a walk along the A82 would be more enjoyable. Therefore David and Adele continued to 902. The summit was glimpsed but the wind was too strong so they headed back.

Alan and Fiona both managed to bag something this weekend, the mighty Marilyn Ardheal Hill at 263m! Views were apparently fantastic. They then explored the Glencoe Lochan woodlands. 

Dan gave Joe moral support for his new found bagging condition and they both headed up Ben Sgulaird. Much drunken staggering due to the high winds, but they made it to the summit! A rugby match was then watched. The less spoken about this the better.

Saturday night’s enthusiasm for going up a hill on Sunday seemed somewhat diminished once breakfast was over. Whilst most headed home, Sheena and Dan headed off to Mam na Gualainn on the north shore of Loch Leven.  Amazingly they were treated to a clag-free ascent with magnificent views towards the Ballachulish Horseshoe and Glen Coe.  Even Sgurr na h-Ulaidh (aka Hidden Munro) could be seen peaking out.  Just as we left the summit we were enveloped by the next shower cloud.  This brought ferocious winds, poor visibility and snow/hail.  A good day nonetheless.

Thank you to David Treagus for the write up. (Although the publisher has other thoughts on the rugby match!)