07-08/12/12 Activity: FVMC members arrange a stay at Calluna Hostel, Fort William

A great weekend was spent at Calluna hostel in Fort William despite poor weather predictions.

3 members of the FVMC braved the icy road conditions and threats of high winds and heavy rain to attend this meet.

Accommodation was very good. Due to so few attendees due to cancellations, we got a room each.

An early start on Saturday to make the most of the daylight, and we all headed out to Mamore Lodge for an ascent of Sgurr Elide Mor. Light morning drizzle and an icy track were soon left behind in the valley as we ascended snowy slopes. We were even graced by patches of blue sky. Up the path to Coire an Lochain, avoiding the recent debris of small avalanches and we reached the foot of the hill.

Frozen Coire an Lochain

Once onto the ridge the gusting winds took effect and occasionally made standing up difficult. However after a wee struggle (especially from the female of the party) we all made it to the summit and were graced by views of the surrounding hills and loch below.

The winds, although strong were far from cold and a distinct thaw was noticed on our descent. The quickest way down was using the occasional bum slide. Luckily neither ice-axe or crampons were required and the track down to the lodge was negotiable if running with water. Made it back just before sunset from our monochrome world.

Sunday, a short morning jaunt was proposed to ascend Beinn Bahn in Glen Loy. This time the weather forecast offered us sunshine so we set out hopeful.

Heavy rain shower gave way to higher cloud and if not exactly sunshine, glimpses were seen. A straight forward ascent from the east side of the burn to the summit and back was executed. Although a circumnavigation of the corrie would have been nice, the northerly summit winds made spending anytime on the summit plateau uncomfortable and standing up difficult. Still we spotted a reasonable large herd of Red deer enjoying the summit.

Marian 9/12/12