Today was one of those days that can go either way. Trekking across the Cairngorm plateau had the potential to be the chance to see the dramatic Scottish highland landscape that was one of my main anticipations for this trip. However, the downside was the likelihood of torrential rain at some point, and questions about health and fitness for such an endeavour.
We were picked up about 8.30 by our guide, Simon, his wife and pack-dog, and driven out to the ski facility that was our stepping off point. From there we climbed up to 1,200m up glacial carries and across scree fields and ridges. The scenery was spectacular, the weather the best we have had, and the climbs and distance were superbly managed by Simon to ensure we felt challenged, but never overextended. Our packs had plenty of snacks and sandwiches, and we were able to fill our filtering water bottles from the multitude of crystal clear and drop dead gorgeous creeks.
Simon had ambitions of getting further, but alas there were just too many photo opportunities… Aidan did a great job covering the ground, running up the early hills and enjoying the fact that the guides had taken seriously Justine’s comment that “he likes chocolate” when they put his snack pack together!
Tomorrow is another early start, as we head off to Fort William on the East Coast to catch the historic Jocobite steam train to Mallaig, near the southern tip of Skye. Sounds a lot like there could be more photos to come there too!
Everything in one place 