The Ring of Steall is a classic hike along ridges linking four Munros in the Mamores. Cal is my guide once more for the scramble across Devil’s Ridge. Ascending 5,603 feet, we will burn a few calories. Leaving the car […]
Day 330: Ring of Steall Read More »
Ben Macdui is the second-highest mountain in Britain, oft-shrouded in mist, silent apart from the footsteps of the Big Grey Man stalking lone explorers. Should I be worried? To avoid adding six miles of road walking to the official hiking
Day 328: Ben Macdui & Cairn Gorm Read More »
I read The Living Mountain by Nan Shepherd two years ago, but have not ventured into the Cairngorm Mountains until now. The Cairngorm Plateau has recorded both the lowest temperature (−27.2 °C) and the greatest wind speed (176 mph) in Britain. I’m
Day 327: Bynack More Read More »
I have a history of lower back problems — a life sitting in an office — culminating in a successful operation 12 years ago to insert two titanium discs. It flares up now and then — this time due to
Day 319: Carn Liath (Bienn a’Ghlo) Read More »
At 1,345 metres, Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the UK. Cal and I are hiking up via the Càrn Mòr Dearg Arête, one of the finest ridge-walks in Scotland. The weather could not be better — the sun
Day 299: Ben Nevis Read More »
Bidean nam Bian is the highest mountain in Argyll. It’s a tough seven-mile circular hike, including a second Munro, Stob Coire Sgreamhach. To add to the challenge, I must walk six miles down Glen Coe to the start and return
Day 296: Bidean nam Bian Read More »
A new year begins. There was no need for resolutions — my challenges multiply happily on their own. The further north I push, the more difficult the logistics, especially without a tent or a car. Oban offers a perfect base,
Day 288: Ben Cruachan Read More »