November Laggan Village Hall

4 11 2022 - 6 11 2022

October Lochearnhead, Scout Centre

7 10 2022 - 9 10 2022

The venue for the October meet was Tyndrum. We were scheduled to try the Lochearnhead Scout Station but as  it’s  currently closed for refurbishment we were based at the By The Way hostel & campsite. Ian, Maggie, Julie and Rhonda stayed in the hostel with Sue, Colin and Jim in their camper vans. It was a good base - the hostel was comfortable and spacious, certainly worth using again. On the Friday evening we met in the Tyndrum Inn for a bit of food, drink and chat and some walk planning. 

Saturday’s forecast was a bit mixed with clear spells, some rain and the tops often clagged in. We all headed roughly in the same direction going west from the campsite towards Ben Lui. Rhona, Maggie, Julie & Jim all headed towards the gold mine at Cononish and had a fine day despite nobody finding any gold. Ian, Sue and Colin headed in the same direction with Ian going up Ben Lui which posed a few navigational challenges in the poor visibility promised by the forecast. Sue & Colin were Corbett bagging and went up Beinn Chuirn above the gold mine. The cloud and rain came and went all day with some fleeting glimpses of Brocken spectres near the summit.

Returning to Tyndrum, the gold mine party took advantage of the proximity of the Green Welly shop for afternoon tea and a bit of shopping. Apart from Ian, who cooked in the hostel the rest of us had a meal in the hotel. 

Sunday’s forecast was bad. 70MPH winds on the tops with heavy rain coming in. This was enough to send almost everyone heading home. The exception was Ian who had a bold attempt at Beinn Challuim, He made it to the South top before being turned back by conditions.

A fine weekend and nice to catch up.

September Achnasheen, Invercroft.

2 9 2022 - 4 9 2022

August Kintail, Camping

5 8 2022 - 7 8 2022

CDMC August 2022 Meet Report

The venue for the August meet was the NTS Outdoor Centre in Kintail with eight people occupying space for twenty. 

Friday - first to arrive were Alan, Janet, Jim and Vania who travelled at leisurely pace through summer traffic, stopping only for coffee and lunch.  Meanwhile Iain took a detour to Kinloch Hourn to tackle the twin Corbetts, Buidhe Bheinn & Sgurr a Bhac Cholais using the stalkers’ path from the lodge at Kinloch Hourn.  Iain returned to Glen Quoich over the Bealach Coire Sgoireadail, enjoying a mixture of sunshine and showers with good views most of the day.  Derek and neighbour Fraser paused to cross the Aonach Eagach Ridge, managing  to get a space in the Three Sisters car park by the skin of their teeth. They followed the burn up Coire An Ruigh to reach the bealach between Am Bodach and Sron Gharbh, with an easy walk then to Am Bodach and great views of the Three Sisters, pinnacles and ridges.  After the climb down from Stob Corie Leith towards Sgorr nam Fiannaidh they made their way back to the bealach and the very steep chute towards the A82, joining the rest of the group by around 10 pm.   Colin was the last to reach the centre, arriving after lights out and finding a spare bunk while the others slept.

Saturday - was forecast to be a drizzly day with some heavy gusts, prompting some swithering between Plans A and B amongst some in the group.  Not to be deterred by the weather, Iain drove to Arnisdale, parking at the road end at Corran carpark, to enjoy a circuit around the Corbetts Beinn nan Caorach & Beinn na h-Eaglaise.  Cloud level was around 700m for most of the day, so the summits were in the clag, but it stayed dry all day. Iain returned to Corran in time for a bowl of soup and a coffee at Sheena's Tea Hut (which he highly recommends for future visits).  

Alan and Vania parked at Attadale and cycled (or mostly pushed) the long and very hilly estate track to Bendronaig Lodge, parking by the adjacent bothy (with flushing toilet!!).  From the lodge they headed up into the mist with little visibility, relying on compass and GPS to route-find before finally reaching the trig point on the summit.  The return was for the most part via the outward route, with an earlier descent to gain some visibility.  Unfortunately this meant an improved view of the long track that had to be cycled back to the car park.

Janet, with support part-way from Jim, headed off towards A'Ghlas-bheinn. The walk up the glen was a bit humid and damp especially through the birch wood near the start.  The wind picked up closer to the bealach and the temperature dropped, with Janet going solo from that point.  Despite the lack of visibility, the path was good the whole way with a few small scrambly sections.  The strong wind eased closer to the summit but it was so cold that Janet took a picture of the cairn and immediately turned-tail. 

Derek & Fraser’s Saturday plan was for Sgurr nan Gillean and Am Basteir via the corrie. The wind was strong and they heard a couple of large boulders tumbling down as they gained height after the lochan. Just before Bealach Am Basteir, Fraser was picked up by the wind and planted two-feet to his left. The decision was made to reach the bealach and descend from that point with no chance of a safe ridge walk that day.  Colin’s Saturday involved a trip to Skye to explore the sights of Portree, keeping well-clear of the hills.

Saturday night was Fish ‘n’ Chips Van night at the Morvich Campsite, for those returning early enough to get a slot in the booking system (one to be aware of for future visits!!).  A leisurely evening was had by all, relaxing in the centre’s comfy sofas while Colin provided the background music on the centre’s guitar, minus one string.

Sunday - Iain nipped up the Corbett Sgurr Mhic Bharraich from Shiel Bridge Campsite. Again the top was in the cloud, so no view from the summit, but it stayed dry all morning apart from a bit drizzle just at the outset. Iain was back at the car for 1.30pm and home in time for tea.

Jim said his farewells and headed in the direction of Glenelg to do some exploring, while Colin’s intention was to climb the Brothers, weather dependent (with Plan B being a full-Scottish…is that a decision??).  Alan, Janet & Vania went in the opposite direction to the Otter Hide at Kylerhea with all Otters in the vicinity going into hiding on their approach.  The wobbly ferry was crossed to Glenelg with Grey Seals peeking out of the water and being swooped by Gulls for their catch.  Lunch stop was at the ferry café with great views and some tasty pastries, before a look round Glenelg and a later stop-off for afternoon tea by Spean Bridge. 

Derek and Fraser’s Sunday involved a long drive up to Braemore and Loch na Bhraoin. The target for the day was Meall a Chrasgaidh across a decent but wet path with a tricky burn crossing. It was steep on the way up and to cut back on the time they decided to go off the east side which looked good from above but was pretty craggy on the way down. They managed to get off safely and crossed the Abhainn via a wee island to then head in the direction of home.

Overall, it was a successful meet enjoyed by those attending.  General agreement was that the venue is in a great location with good facilities and lots of space for cooking, eating, showering and socialising.  One for future use!!

July Mull, camping

1 7 2022 - 3 7 2022

Phil and Jojo’s Big Adventure – Friday to Tuesday, 40 miles round the north-west of Scotland 

Featuring: Days of sunshine, a cooling breeze – sometimes too cooling! Spectacular sunsets, fantastic coastline and some great wee hills. 

Varied and interesting camp sites, amazing bothies. Frogs, lizards, a stag sunbathing on a sea-cliff and an angry adder. Birds, including skylarks, puffins and (sea) eagles. About 15 minutes of midges the whole weekend – 10 one night and 5 next morning. 

Places including Cape Wrath, Kearvaig Bay and Clo Mor, Sgribhis-bheinn, Fashven, Creag Raibhaich and An Grianan. 

June Walkthrough Sandwood to Durness

3 6 2022 - 5 6 2022

May Glencoe - Lagangarbh Hut

6 5 2022 - 8 5 2022

Attendees : Ian Joy, Jojo Neff, Philip Blackwood, Colin Harris and Iain Dow

Jojo and Ian Joy arrived at the hut just after 18.00 to find everything spic and span. As expected, the hut was very comfortable for the weekend. There was a surprisingly large number of cars already parked in the vicinity when we arrived at 18.00, and when Philip arrived he counted 50 parked vehicles!

After Iain, Colin and Philip arrived we had the usual chat about plans for the weekend.

Iain was planning to head off at the crack of dawn to catch the 07.45 pedestrian ferry from Fort William across Loch Linnhe to climb a Corbett whose name I cannot remember. A return trip and drive back home to undertake dog sitting responsibilities meant he would not be joining us on Saturday evening.

Colin announced an even more ambitious plan! He also was heading out at the crack of dawn and planned to drive to Glen Shiel and attack Am Bathach and Ciste Dhubh. These objectives were achieved, with subsequent pit stops at Clachaig and the Kingshouse before returning to the hut.

Jojo, in his inimitable style set off to do the Aonach Eagach having hitched a lift with Colin for an early morning trip to Glencoe Village. Over to Jojo’s own words.

“I was on my way up the Pap before 07:00. Great views from there across the very calm water towards the West. In the east the Aonach Eagach ridge disappeared in the low cloud. It pretty much stayed there for most of my time on the "juicy bits", so exposure to the exposure was somewhat limited by the poor visibility.

Interest was added by the not-quite-bone-dry rock but it was enjoyable and surprisingly quickly over when I found myself emerging from the clagg onto Am Bodach after just 2.5 h (from the Pap bealach).

A leisurely walk along the hills and Devil's staircase saw me back at the hut before 14:00. Way too early to stop on a fine day like this, now that the clouds had lifted off all tops and given way to some blue sky and sunshine.

After a brew, I headed off again to the obvious local choice of Buachaille Etive Mor. Up the grassy slopes on the right to avoid the crowds coming down the corrie. Half-hour snooze on the "wee" top to let crowds clear off the summit. Final jaunt up to the grand 360° views. It was only 16:20 now so time for another hour long break taking in the scenery and the inside view of my eyelids.

Down the corrie, now deserted, to join everyone else at Lagangarbh for a well earned dinner. Great day ! ”

That left Phil and myself rather bleary eyed, having breakfast at around 06.30 which was a bit earlier than expected. Phil volunteered to drive down the glen to start our route up Coire nan Lochan following the well established, and surprisingly high quality path up into the coire. When we reached the lochan we turned SE to ascend Stob Coire nan Lochan via the east ridge. Several others headed off to the west side of the glen heading for the same objective.

A pleasant coffee break at the summit without any need for extra layers or sheltering from the wind was only disturbed by the man with the (very noisy) drone taking videos of himself on the summit. Unfortunately the three of us reached all our subsequent summits at the same time for him to repeat the process.

We then leisurely traversed the ridge over to Bidean, reaching the summit at 11.30, far too early for lunch which was delayed for an hour till we reached the summit of Stob Coire Sgreamhach.

Our original plan had been to descend into the Lost Valley, but there was a fair bit of steep snow to descend, so we looked at an alternative route off via Beinn Fhada, but that did not look any easier. Headed back NW down the ridge to the Bealach Dearg and descended the steep snow carefully. Kicking steps as we descended was straightforward enough in the relatively soft spring snow, and provided nice firm steps for the various “trainer clad” folk who were getting a bit agitated by it all.

Nice comfortable descent via the Lost Valley and back to the hut at 16.15 for a brew. We had chatted about Jojo on the descent. Would he be in the hut eating cake, or would he have headed off to another route after completing the Aonach Eagach. As described above, he was already back out on the hill!

With Colin and Philip heading off on Sunday for various birthday celebrations, Jojo and I had a very pleasant and quite leisurely (for him) ascent of Buchaille Etive Beag. We climbed up to the summit ridge from the east side and then descended steep scree slopes off the south end of Stob Dubh back down to return via the path in the Lairig Gartain.

Weather over the two days was defined as “great”. No wind, no rain and decent visibility, especially on Sunday. Not a normal Glen Coe experience!

April April - Camping, Resipole

1 4 2022 - 3 4 2022

March Rucksacks Bunkhouse, Braemar

4 3 2022 - 6 3 2022

February February - Braedownie, Glen Clova

Braedownie Hut

4 2 2022 - 6 2 2022

December Bridge of Orchy, Ski Club Hut

Glencoe Ski Club Hut

3 12 2021 - 5 12 2021

November Glen Etive, Inbhirfhaolan Hut

5 11 2021 - 7 11 2021

October Glen Feshie

1 10 2021 - 3 10 2021

September Torridon

3 9 2021 - 5 9 2021

August Mabie Forest Park, Dumfries and Galloway

6 8 2021 - 8 8 2021

July CIC Hut, Ben Nevis

2 7 2021 - 4 7 2021

June Inverie, Knoydart

4 6 2021 - 6 6 2021

April Isle of Harris

30 4 2021 - 3 5 2021

April Lagganlia, Kincraig

2 4 2021 - 4 4 2021

March Loch Linnhe Campsite

5 3 2021 - 7 3 2021

February Braemar Village Hall

5 2 2021 - 7 2 2021

January Braedownie Hut Glen Clova

Braedownie Hut

8 1 2021 - 9 1 2021

December Kincraig Village Hall

4 12 2020 - 6 12 2020

November Glencoe

6 11 2020 - 8 11 2020

October Braemar

2 10 2020 - 4 10 2020

September Club hut work meet

18 9 2020 - 20 9 2020

September Walk through

4 9 2020 - 6 9 2020

August Contin Camping

7 8 2020 - 9 8 2020

July Club hut weekend

Braedownie Hut

17 7 2020 - 19 7 2020

July Elphin Cavers' Club Hut

3 7 2020 - 5 7 2020

June Glen Affric Cancelled

5 6 2020 - 7 6 2020

May Isle of Jura CANCELLED

1 5 2020 - 3 5 2020

April Inverie bunkhouse CANCELLED

3 4 2020 - 5 4 2020

March Club Hut weekend

Braedownie Hut

13 3 2020 - 15 3 2020

March Aite Cruinnichidh Hostel

6 3 2020 - 8 3 2020

February Inverardran (AGM)

7 2 2020 - 9 2 2020

January McIntyre Hut

10 1 2020 - 12 1 2020

November Bridge of Orchy Christmas Meet

29 11 2019 - 1 12 2019

November Nethy Bridge Hostel

1 11 2019 - 3 11 2019

October Lake District Patterdale

4 10 2019 - 6 10 2019

September Ardgour Strontian Camping

6 9 2019 - 8 9 2019

August Braedownie Hut (CDMC 70th birthday)

Braedownie Hut

2 8 2019 - 4 8 2019

July Cannich

5 7 2019 - 7 7 2019

Hi everyone,

The September meet was attended by eight from the CDMC – Alan Dow, Dave Duncan, Ian Joy, Vania Kennedy, Jojo Neff, Jim Place, Colin and Sue Semple. While the original intention was to sleep under canvas, only two in the party braved the cold weather, the rest opting for luxury motor homes or the nearby bunkhouse. All gathered at the campsite lounge on Friday night to plan walks and catch up.
Saturday was a cold start but the sun came out mid-morning allowing great views towards Mull, Rum the coastal communities around Loch Linnhe, Ben Nevis …….and many more hills:

• Alan, Dave, Jim and Vania Kennedy climbed Creach Bheinn starting in Carnoch in Glen Tarbet, following a good path at the start of the ascent, experiencing a bit of a slog in the middle, with sunbathing / snoozing at the top. The descent passed through the remains of an old camp with some stone walls intact (web suggests it housed early surveyors), down Coire Leacach back to the starting point.
• Sue and Colin walked from the campsite up Strontian Glen to Sgurr Dhomhnuill. They climbed the hill via Druim Garbh. a fairly bumpy ridge with quite a scrambly final climb up to Sgurr Dhomhnuill, enjoying panoramic views from the top. The completion of the horseshoe involved a 9 hour / 27k walk leading back to the campsite by early evening.
• Ian and Jojo also opted for a mega-walk over the Garbh Bheinn horseshoe starting at Inversanda ascending via Sgor Mhic Eachama, Beinn Beag and then descending down the west side via Sron a Garbh Choire Beag.

Sunday was a mixed weather day with little opportunity for any views:

• Alan, Dave, Jim and Vania climbed Garbh Bheinn in the opposite direction taken by Ian and Jojo the previous day. They opted not to try to complete the full circuit in the mist (legs wouldn’t have allowed anyway!!) and escaped down scree to join the stalkers path at the head of Coire Iubhair, followed by a long walk back to waiting vehicles.
• Colin, not put off by his long day on Saturday, decided to run the Glen Coe half-marathon following part of the West Highland Way, while Sue passed time following a bit of the Ben Nevis path.
• Ian pottered around some of the nearby forest walks recovering from Saturday and Jojo headed for the hills again starting from the campsite over Creach Bheinn to be picked up by Ian on the south side of Kingairloch.

All headed home after a good weekend with only a few aching limbs….some more than others! Sorry to those who sent me photos, iPad troubles and I can't attach but will keep for the newsletter.

June Glen Dessarry

7 6 2019 - 9 6 2019

May Glen Brittle, Skye

3 5 2019 - 5 5 2019

April Ling Hut Torridon

Ling Hut

5 4 2019 - 7 4 2019

March Steall Hut

1 3 2019 - 3 3 2019

February Laggan Raeburns Hut

Raeburns Hut

1 2 2019 - 3 2 2019

January Laggan Meet - AGM

11 1 2019 - 12 1 2019

We had 20 members attending the first meet of 2019 - a good turn out. The venue was Laggan Village hall. 

The forecast for the weekend wasn’t encouraging and Saturday dawned as a very windy day with a fair bit of rain. Undeterred, we had a range of ambitious plans. 
Vania, Alan, Davie, Sue & Colin headed up the Corrieyairack pass from Melgarve then on to Corrieyairack Hill and Gairbeinn. The decision to do the route clockwise proved wise with a tailwind for the bit over the tops. Jojo hitched a lift to Melgarve and headed back over the tops to the South.
Katie & Jon met up with Dau & Gintas for some Munro bagging from Drumochter. Jim Whitehead & Jim Plaice went further west for their Munro of Beinn Teallach. Peaks were bagged but nobody enjoyed much of a view! Lawrie & Janet had planned Carn Dearg but modified plans to head to Eilich Bothy & Loch Dubh. Phil went up Carn an Fhreiceadain from Kingussie. Paul & Jane drove up from Edinburgh and walked up to the monument above Laggan Bridge on the way.. So, a range of activities but we were a fairly wet bunch on returning to the hall.

Saturday evening saw the Club AGM taking place with Alan, Colin, Scott and Kenny coming up for the evening.

Enthusiasm levels were somewhat lower on Sunday with some heading home but the more dedicated still got out. Alan, Janet, Lawrie and Vania walked from the car park at Moy and took the forestry track towards Corrour on a circuit to the southwest round Meall Luidh Mor. Some decent views north to the Creag Meagaidh hills and the snow showers sweeping in covering the tops. Kenny headed further South for an enjoyable circuit of Loch Errochty. On a less active but more social theme, a number stopped off to visit John & Catriona in Bankfoot.

December Christmas Meet - Braedownie Club Hut

Braedownie Hut

7 12 2018 - 9 12 2018

18 people came along at some point to the Christmas Meet at Braedownie Hut. Good weather and good company meant we had our usual great Christmas party.

On Saturday, Colin S, Sue, Paul, Katie, Jon, Iain, and Stuart and Hannah from the Nissen Hut had a really fine walk up to Bachnagairn, Sandy Hillocks, and over the high ground back to the Capel Path. The day was relatively mild with lots of rainbows and it was fun to see familiar hills from unfamiliar viewpoints. Alan Clark enjoyed a jaunt up Jock's Road.

On Saturday evening the hut got decorated and the Christmas Feast was prepared. Many thanks to Jim P for coordinating the food offerings (there was enough!). Kenny dropped in to say hi on the way back from beating and several other people turned up in time for the meal. Stewart B, Phil, Jim P, Jim W and his son Andrew, Moira and Tony, Colin H and Graham Davie all descended ready for food and were not disappointed. The kitchen facilities and seating space were more than adequate to feed us all. After dinner a Christmas band (Paul, Jon, Katie) played some carols, and some whiskey was sampled.

On Sunday many folk had to head home but Colin S, Sue, Paul, Iain, Katie and Jon headed up Ben Tirran, a corbett hear the hotel. The temperature had dropped and this was quite a wintry walk, but excellent visibility gave us good views.


Merry Christmas to everyone and hope to see many of you at the AGM meet in Laggan (Village Hall), 11-13th January.

November Rannoch Moor

Blackrock Cottage

2 11 2018 - 4 11 2018

Some early winter colds and a rubbish weather forecast cut a swathe through the initial enthusiasm for this meet, but a "full house" was still achieved.

Myself, Janet, Rhona, Maggie, Alan Dow and Jim Plaice met at the Green Welly about 3.30 on Friday. We then went on to open up the cottage in daylight and dry weather. Once we had negotiated the various chains and padlocks we had a pleasant surprise. the coal shed has now been converted in to a very stylish shower block, drying room and toilet very Grand Designs. Iain Dow arrived shortly afterwards followed by Angus Morrison one of our Meetup finds.

More in hope than anticipation plans were laid for the following day.

Saturday (it was wet, very wet)

Iain went and explored Invermallie Bothy on the south side of Loch Arkaig.

Rhona and Maggie set off to walk the West Highland Way down to Bridge of Orchy, but hit a snag in discovering that Rhona's waterproofs were no longer waterproof, they beat a soggy retreat to
the Ski Centre Café.

Alan, Janet and Jim P set off to do Ben Hiant on Saturday but decided to park it for another day. They stopped off at the viewpoint Camas Nan Geall which looks down on a Bronze age standing stone and Neolithic chambered cairn and other ancient monuments. On the way back they stopped at the Hide at Ardery and managed to catch an otter feeding.

Angus headed for Glen Nevis intent on some photography.

I decided to check out some dive sites at Ballachullich and Loch Creran, didn't see any otters but did see lots of divers and wild swimmers, clearly rain didn't bother these guys.

The cottage though provided a cosy retreat, and a very sociable evening was spent their with Katie, Jonathan and Jim Whitehead joining us.

Sunday (much better day)

Iain went into Glen Etive and did Stob Coir'an Albannaich and Meall nan Eun.

Jim P, Alan and Janet did Sgor na h-Ulaidh, parking just past the Clachaig turnoff.

Jim W, Katy and Jonathan had a great day out in the hidden Valley lots of stags roaring on the hill and great views over to loch Etive from the top.

Maggie, Rhona, Myself and Angus headed home early.

All in all a good meet in a great location despite the wet Saturday.

October Kintail - Morvich Campsite

5 10 2018 - 7 10 2018

The above meet, held over the weekend of 5th 6th and 7th and based at Morvich Caracavan and Motorhome Site near Shielbridge was attended by ten members. What follows is a resume' of the activities which the members got up to.

As is usual members arrived at various times on the Friday evening some of the more wealthy opting to eat out at the local hostelry whilst those on more meagre resources spent the evening in the campsite common room, fortified by nothing stronger than tea!!

For those familiar with the dickens novel “A tale of two cities” might wish to read this report as a “Tale of Two Venues” for some members decided to slum it in a caravan some six miles away ~ so much for having a club meet!!!!

That said Saturday dawned fine and reasonably clear with Jim plaice and Derek Tasker heading off up Strath Croe to the Bealach na Sgairne before ascending A'Ghlas Bheinn. Not satisfied with bagging this Murphy(Munro) they returned to the bealach and climbed Beinn Fhada or to give the bump it's due respect Ben Attow. A second return to the bealach was effected before a return to the campsite. Both reported having a good time on the hill.

Next away were Lindsay, Janet and Lawrie intent on “bagging” Beinn Sgritheall by the Bealach Arnasdail and returning to Arnisdale by the mountain's west ridge. In addition to experiencing a short snow shower they were serenaded, on the summit, to a rendition of “Highland Cathedral” by a fully kilted highlander. 'Fraid it wasn't in recognition of their achievment ~ merely another “Murphy Bagger” being commemorated on summiting, to use the modern vernacular, his last munro.

Last of the campers, me, headed off up into the wilds of Inverinate Forest before descending into Glen Elchaig before returning via the quite spectactular Falls of Glomach to the campsite. All in all an almost humanoid free day.

Colin and Scott also made a forage, this time on bikes, into Glen Elchaig hell bent on going for Iron Lodge as the start of their stravaig up onto Mullach na Dheiragain, and not content with this Scott went on to do that great Affric peak, namely Sgurr nan Ceathreamhnan. His comments upon his return lead me to conclude that the said Scott may suffer from a temporary haluncinating affliction possibly named after that well known Scottish Burn ~ the Allt Zymmer!!!! for he was adamant that he saw a couple of “tweeded gentlemen” who came and went from oblivion whilst he was going onto the latter top. As for Colin's activities 'fraid I don't know too much 'cos I never saw the poor lad!! So much for split venues.

Lastly, Dave and Alan, being somewhat senior in years to Colin and Scott elected to go for a much smaller hill, namely Beinn nan Caorach above Arnisdale. At only 774 mtrs. I wonder, by sticking to the smaller hills will Dave still be able to climb high enough to bag his last 3000 footer??

After everyone had had an enjoyable hill day on the Saturday it was with a bit of trepidation that we looked forward to the Sabbath ~ we were not dissappointed!!

Now with the Dearg being, in the main a bunch of heathens, the Good Lord and Mother Nature delivered to us a 5 star dreich day which resulted in members giving the tops a muckle great body swerve ~ you couldna' see them anyway!!

Sunday – from Lawrie

Sunday was pretty foul as you know. Alan and Scott had an outing to Plockton for lunch. Janet, Lindsay and myself braved the elements for a while and suitably waterproofed set off up the glen to Glenlicht House. The house was locked up of course but the storeroom to the side was open and provided a dry refuge for us to have lunch (Our thanks to those who have provided this welcome haven in the glen). On the return the flood waters coming over the track had risen considerably and the rapids in the river were a sight to behold but other than slightly damp feet and soaked waterproofs we survived unscathed and had of course the comfort of the excellent drying room to look forward to.

The river had risen considerably and the wardens were checking from time to time as the high tide was impeding the flow but all was well and Monday morning saw the rain cease and we were able to pack up and be on our way without too much bother, there were even a few brave midges taking to the air.

September Hut Work Weekend

Braedownie Hut

28 9 2018 - 30 9 2018

The weekend of 29th-30th September several of us gathered at the hut for the annual work weekend. The weather was good and we had a very productive Saturday giving the hut a good spring clean and fixing lots of odd jobs. The log box got a new lid and the logs beside the stove got a new home to be stacked on. Jim Plaice and others put in a stalwart path weeding effort. Jojo arrived mid-afternoon and set to work re-compacting the paths, which now look very smart again.

We welcomed our new member Jim Whitehead, and his son, Andrew. Claire Cumming also officially joined the club during the meet, having initially come out with us via MeetUp. Moira and Tony also popped in, as did Scott (who was helping out with the BB). Alan Clark's pies and cakes were relished. By Saturday evening we were bulging at the seams having done our best to eat through two apples crumbles.

On Sunday Iain, Jim W, Katie, Jon and Claire headed up the Capel path and looped round over Cairn Dearg. We enjoyed excellent views of Broad Cairn and Lochnagar. Jojo and Phil stayed at the hut pursuing further improvements.

September Arran Lochranza Hostel

7 9 2018 - 9 9 2018

It was hard getting onto Arran and just as hard to get off, due to road closures and train and ferry cancellations etc. The meet was attended by 10 members and one guest. With Roland, the barking dog and Lara, it all made for a fun filled meet.

Alan, Lawrie, Janet, Lindsay, Jim, Vania and Dave arrived Friday on the same ferry and all stayed at the Lochranza Hostel. Trish and Richard came over on the small ferry from Claonaig later on the Friday and were staying at Lochranza campsite. Phil and JoJo were last to arrive late on Friday, Phil camping at the Lochranza campsite (being entertained by the Farting Stags) and JoJo camping further up Glen Rosa. A birthday cake was enjoyed as we discussed the next days plans.

Saturday walks. Dave, Alan, Lawrie, Janet, Phil, Lindsay, Vania, Jim all set out from Pirnmill for Beinn Bharrain and Mullach Buidhe circuit to Thunderguy. The weather was wet and visibility not that great. Had one person suggested calling it a day we would of gladly went to the coffee shop. Thankfully no one did, the weather turned in our favour and it was the most enjoyable day. We had a nice stop at the Lochan shore and met some guy called Larie writing his name in the sand. Bramble picking on the way back, only those passing quality control made it in the bag. Sitting on the bench without a care in world waiting on Lawrie and Vania coming along in the cars to collect us. We even had a nice wee sing song. You wouldn’t get any of this on a Rabbies tour.

Trish and Richard went for Goatfell from the brewery at Brodick.

JoJo went for Goatfell from Glen Rosa, round the ridge to Cir Mhor past A'Chir and onto Beinn Tarsuinn and Beinn Nuis. 

Scot joined us at the Hostel on Saturday. We had two chocolate cakes on Saturday night celebrating birthday just past and birthday to come. 

Trish and Richard went back on the Ferry to Claonaig on Sunday.

Sunday walks. Dave went from Lochranza, Laggan cottage, Cock of Arran, Fairy Dell back to Lochranza.

Alan, Janet, Lawrie, Lindsay, Phil , Vania, Jim, Scot went for Goatfell from the Brewery at Brodick. It was another day of two halves. The morning was wet and windy and the afternoon was lovely. We treated ourselves to coffee, cake and scones in the Little Rock at Brodick.

JoJo enjoyed some coastal walks from Blackwaterfoot North along the coast, berry picking along the way. Having a wash in the sea at Kings Cave.

Alan and JoJo were to leave on Sunday night on the 1640 ferry to Ardrossan from Brodick. Due to a ferry being stuck at Ardrossan they didn’t leave Arran until about 1800 and were taken to Gourock. Alan was bused to Ardrossan and JoJo caught the train to Glasgow.

Due to lots of cancellations on the ferry we all changed our plans and got off Arran early on the Monday using both the ferries.

Another enjoyable meet. See you all in October at Morvich.

August Lairg - Crask Inn bunkhouse

3 8 2018 - 5 8 2018

The meet in August was Lairg in Sutherland but with no coordinator I volunteered to post what the team got up to.
All 7 had pre booked to stay at Dunroaming Caravan Site before the venue change to Pondside and found Alan, Lindsay, Vania, Jim and Janet in a static caravan joined by Trish and Richard in the 'Happy Van'.

On Saturday Trish and Richard headed South to tackle the Corbett Carn Chuinneag just to the north of Ben Wyvis and had a successful day with a little smir of rain.

Lindsay, Jim and Janet went for Ben Klibreck going via Cnoc Sgrodain and A'Chioch. With low cloud there was no view from the summit and a lot of strong wind but the views opened up on the descent so they took in Creag an Lochain to extend the day a little.

Alan and Vania had an adventurous day Corbett bashing. They went for Cranstackie followed by Beinn Spionnaidh. Having the worst of the weather in the far north they had poor visibility making navigation difficult and got a total drenching. Comparisons were made to Ben Starav's north west ridge as a slightly dodgy route was taken (no surprise!) encountering large very loose boulders. Copious quantities of gin and wine were required back at the caravan to stop them seizing up completely.

Sunday
Vania headed for home on Sunday to try to dry out her gear and Alan (wet gear festering in the van) had a day pottering around after declining the offer to join Lindsay, Jim and Janet on Ben Hope.

Trish and Richard had a coffee with Alan and then had a civilised day touring north to John O'Groats.
Lindsay, Jim and Janet had a dry day but again a cloud base below the summit prevented the extensive views hoped for. They had a wee stop off at the Broch Dun Dornaigil on the way back.

Monday
Jim headed home and Alan, Lindsay and Janet went to visit the Bird Hide at Dalchork and only saw a rainbow before hitting the road for home.

Hope to see you at Lochranza in Arran for the September meet!

July Invergarry Saddle Mountain Hostel

6 7 2018 - 8 7 2018

June Glen Derry Camping / Bothy

1 6 2018 - 3 6 2018

Hello everyone

Braemar hosted the club at two locations, Linn of Dee and Braemar SYHA. The weekend's weather report was for thunderstorms. Flashflooding in Ballater and elsewhere on Friday meant only the intrepid 7 who had taken up Braemar SYHA's offer of lightening and rain proofed accomodation attended.

The meet stretched to four days, with some of the club arriving early Friday leaving Monday. Allegedly not all of that extra time was/will be spent in tea rooms.

Friday - Alan, Janet, Lawrie, Lindsay and Vania met and completed Monamenach at the head of Glen Isla. They reported that from the summit there are good views towards the Caenlochan Glen. Scott and David met up with them on Friday evening. Take note everyone - eating options in Braemar at the moment become very  limited after 19.30. Thankfully the Scotmid is open late.

Saturday - This was a big day for everyone. We all sensibly ignored the weather forecast, elected against lightening conductors because of weight, but took good waterproofs just in case. Thunder rolled around the mountain tops and in the glens throughout the day, but nothing too exciting. It was exceptionally warm so when it did rain, it was a welcome relief.

Alan, Davie and Vania set off for Sgur Mhor and Sgurr Beag, Corbetts located between Glen Luibeg and Glen Dee, renowned for their fine viewpoints and outstanding. It took me a little while to realise that Davie talking about the magnicent Chest of Dee was not just him boasting. 

Scott took on Ben Avon and Beinn a'Bhuird from Invercauld no bikes just shanks' pony. He did not do the whole Beinn a'Bhuird ridge walk as the combination of lingering low level cloud and threat of thunder and the numerous corries eating into the ridge was a little too much for his nerve. That said North Top and Ben Avon combined to give a 45k walk made, a very satisfying day out.

Lawrie Lindsay and Janet took off to Beinn Bhreac and Beinn a Chaorainn. This pair of Munros lies between the Beinn a'Bhuird/Ben Avon massifs and the main mass of the Cairngorms. The pinewoods of Glen Derry provided them with a fine approach whilst the paths are excellent. Travel was by bike and foot. This lead to Lindsay telling a tale about cycling and storm drains.

Saturday evening saw us all happy having achieved our various goals for the day. The evening meal was happily sociable, plans were laid for future meets, and Mr Dow happily accepted cake which he shared to mark a chronological event that ought to be marked. The hostel users too were sociable with many nationalities  represented, and unlike Callender, all guests were able to sleep as soundly as one can expect after an exceptional hill day

Sunday - Lawrie Lindsay and Janet tackled Ben Avon but from Linn of Quoich, hoping to enjoy the magical tors. I wonder if they would have seen just to the south east on the smooth heathery dome of Culardoch and Ben Liath the spritely forms of Alan, Davie and Vania? Or were those three too busy admiring the views of  Aberdeenshire to be seen? All six completed their goals. Scott took a successfully managed to stroll to the mountain gear shop and resisted the temptation of the tea room.

Monday - Can I write this up before it happens? Well anyway the plan of the team currently is the corbett Morven.

All in all a corbett and munro success of a weekend

May Borders - Moffat St Mary’s Loch

4 5 2018 - 6 5 2018

The start of the bank holiday saw club members heading down the M74 in the direction of Moffat, the venue for the May meet. Accommodation was in the form of a static caravan, tent and des-res on wheels, all located at a caravan park in Beattock.

Friday - Alan, Dave, Janet, Lawrie, Lindsay and Vania met at Wanlockhead to climb Lowther Hill and Green Lowther. It may well have been a lovely walk although low cloud meant that even the giant golf ball on top was barely visible. The aforementioned were joined by Scott and Jim at the caravan park on Friday evening and Michael dropped in for a short spell but didn't stay to walk.

Saturday - the Friday walkers plus Scott and Jim headed out to Grey Mare Tail car park to be joined by three from the Helensburgh and District Ramblers. The target for the day was the Corbett White Coombe, following a stone path up by waterfalls into low cloud. The group crossed the burn (by a group of wild goats) to take a clockwise circular route from White Coombe to Firthhope Rig and Donald's Cleuch Head, following a stone wall most of the way to the crags above Loch Skeen. The ramblers having seen the progress of CDMC members, took advantage of the misty conditions to lose main group at the first top and set off at pace.....so much so that they weren't seen again. The plan on descent for the remaining CDMC members was to stop at a boat hut for afternoon tea. After much searching in typical CDMC style, the boat hut was found crushed half way up a hill, having no doubt lifted during a storm. The group made its way back to the caravan park to be joined by Richard and Trish who had ascended Tinto earlier in the day.

Sunday - all club members set out to climb the Corbett Hart Fell, although Richard and Trish decided to tackle it from a different side giving time for a coffee stop. The main group parked by Moffat Water and headed up the side of Hang Burn to Nether Coomb Craig, Swattie (aka Sweaty) Fell, on to Hart Fell to then follow the horseshoe over Hartfell Rig. An encounter with an electric fence saw Lawrie doing the gentlemanly thing, acting as a conductor to let the ladies through unzapped. It was a beautiful sunny day although strong winds meant Richard and Trish turned back....strongly suspect towards the coffee shop. The rest battled on....with Ken Dodd hairstyle being the result for one person. Surprisingly the walks on Saturday and Sunday were both 24,000 steps (according to the Fitbit) and took the same length of time.

Monday - Scott, Jim, Richard and Trish headed for home and other places leaving the remaining group to take advantage of another fine day. The starting point was the small car park at the end of Meggett Loch with a climb up via Craig Head and Lamb's Knowe to the Corbett Broad Law. The descent was over Porridge Cairn (with an encounter with an unfortunate sheep) and Wylie's Hill down to the head of the loch and a short road walk back to the car.

Although the weekend started with misty conditions the weather greatly improved providing really good walking days. The hills around Moffat were beautiful with views including Arthur's Seat to the North and the Lake District to the South. It was a good location for the meet and one for a return visit.

April Dundonnell - The Smiddy / Sail Mhor hostel (overflow)

6 4 2018 - 8 4 2018

March Mull - Craignure bunkhouse

2 3 2018 - 4 3 2018

February Laggan Village Hall (AGM)

2 2 2018 - 4 2 2018

January Hut Open Weekend

Braedownie Hut

19 1 2018 - 21 1 2018

10 people gathered at the hut for an excellent winter weekend.

We had a number of last minute cancellations due to the snowy travel conditions and illness, but in the end 5 guests came along: Jill and Bridget (both via DMFF), Cat (via MeetUp), Migle and George (friends of Dau and Gintas). Phil, Katie, Jon, Dau and Gintas formed the welcoming party.

On Saturday we had a great walk up Dreish and Mayar via Corrie Fee and the Kilbo path in excellent conditions - hard snow, visibility all the way to the Pentlands, not much wind.

After some homemade banana bread (thanks, Gintas) Jill and Bridget headed home then George arrived on Saturday evening, so we went out for a night walk beneath the stars. The light off the snow meant no head torches were required for much of it and we got great views of the constellations.

On Sunday heavy snow was forecast so we headed for a short day at Loch Brandy. One of the lochans was frozen so we had a game of ice-axe hockey and human curling (my ribs are kind of bruised today).

All in all a very enjoyable weekend - and a great start for our newest member, Cat Tennant from Glasgow, who hopes to meet some of you on Mull

January Callander Hostel

12 1 2018 - 14 1 2018

The first meet of 2018 was at the Callander Hostel and was well attended with 14 members.

On Saturday the group spread out and covered a variety of walks. Snow (iced up paths) was lying to fairly low levels with poor visability and snow falling later in the afternoon, turning to rain at the cars.

Davie, Alan and guests Sarah and Jane headed for a low level walk through Glen Ample from north to south and ended the day having tea and scones in the Roman Camp Hotel. The rest took to the hills with Scott heading off solo for Beinn Chabhair from Inverlochlarig. Philip climbed Beinn Each and continued on to Stuc a'Chroin, returning safe despite losing his map on the way. Neil and Sandra tackled Ben A'an on the recently rebuilt path. Lawrie, Lindsay, Jim and Janet headed for Ben Vorlich, a new tick for Jim and Lindsay. Katie and Jon joined the group on Saturday evening after a run round Loch Venachar and later headed back to Katie's Mum's for a home cooked dinner.

On Sunday Neil and Sandra headed for home. Scott took a run to the Fairy Hall before heading off and Philip went for a circular walk to the Bracklinn Falls. Alan, Davie, Lawrie, Lindsay, Sarah, Jim and Janet walked up Stank Glen and turned back near the top when the weather started to worsen. Jim headed off home and the rest went for a walk to Bracklinn Falls leaving Janet to have a kip in the car.
A wee reminder that the next meet is the AGM 2nd - 4th February

December Christmas Meet

Glencoe Ski Club Hut

1 12 2017 - 3 12 2017

Firstly, many thanks to all who contributed towards the Christmas Dinner. Special thanks to Jim Plaice for coordinating the menu list and to Neil Cameron the clubs chef for the preparation and cooking an excellent dinner, and last but not least the servers.

Well done to Julie Walker for getting the floor cleared and ready for the dancing to Kenny's CD of Scottish dance music. "" MAN FIT AH GRAND NICHT OH JIGS AND REELS WE HID""

Those who arrived on Friday night spent the evening "catching up" and reminiscing of meets gone by, while others were tasting different "Uisgeachan beatha".(Waters of life)

Saturday awoke to a rather "dreach latha ( dreich day in gaelic) low cloud with drizzle, this did not deter the following heading for the hills.

Jojo's day was Beinn Achaladair.> Bienn an Doithaidh and on to Beinn Dorian
"The ladies " ie Maggie,Julie, Rhona and our guest Sarah set off for Inveroran / Forest Lodge along the W.H.W and back.

Alan's group Lawrie, Lindsay, Janet and Jim, had a fine day climbing the hill above the Lodge>> Beinn Inverveigh.

Neil, Sandra and Colin drove Dave and Brian round to Forest Lodge for a nostalgic visit to the Loch Dochard Stables, however Brian had to return with Neil and Sandra due to the lack of gaiters needed to cross the Allt Ghabhar below Clashgour, Dave and Colin having crossed the Allt made the Stables.

Dave's first visit to the Stables was with Brian Clark Jimmy Ross and Tony Viveash and his dog Jim back in 1970, that's 47 years ago, O'my where has all these years gone.

Kenny drove to Inbhir fhaolain the Grampian Club's hut in Glen Etive to assist in the clubs working party. Kenny's second club.

Josse decided to have a relaxing day in the lodge.

The following - Trish, Richard, Michael, Stewart, Iain, Phil, Colin, Charlie and Ronnie arrived in the afternoon giving a grand total of 26, who were treated to a first class, 5 course Christmas dinner.

Sunday saw most of the party leave for home with walks en route. Sorry to say the walk into Gorton Bothy had to be abandoned due a vehicle breakdown.
Jojo headed for Ben Lui >Ben Oss>Ben Dubhchraig. Dave, Brian and Kenny locked up after making sure the lodge was left clean and tidy to CDMC standards.

Merry Christmas and a Guid New Year to you all

November Club Hut

Braedownie Hut

3 11 2017 - 5 11 2017

Hello,

7 members and 4 guests enjoyed using the hut this weekend. The weather was excellent and great days were had on the hill by all. On Saturday, Colin, Stewart, and Stewart's friend visiting for the day headed up Driesh and Mayar. Iain enjoyed a tramp to Loch Muick before heading back to Dundee for a charity ball. Jon and Katie were brewing up colds but the day was so good for walking that a wee stroll to Bachnagairn turned into Broad Cairn and Cairn Bannoch.

Stewart made the mistake of checking his email on the hill and had to head back early for work reasons. Colin also left on Saturday night in order to go sailing the next day. Fortunately reinforcements arrived later on Saturday night in the form of guests Fiona and Richard Maguire. Jon baked some apple crumble to celebrate.

On Sunday, the group walked back up Jock's road to Davy's Bourach. Heather Morning has left an interesting account in the hut of how this shelter saved her life in 2013. By the time we got back to the hut Moira and Tony Viveash had arrived and we had a nice catch up.

Looking forward to the Christmas meet already - fingers crossed we get such good weather again.

Katie
CDMC Secretary

October Glen Etive

Inbhirfhaolain Cottage

6 10 2017 - 8 10 2017

September Work Meet

Braedownie Hut

22 9 2017 - 24 9 2017

A wee update on activities at the hut at the weekend.

13 people came along to the work meet on Saturday – Jojo, Jon, Katie, Colin S, Sue, Alison, Hannah, Colin H, Iain, and guests Sonal, Ally, Alistair and Fiona. We got through all the jobs on the list and some more – all done by mid-afternoon. The hut now has hooks in the shower-room and a few other improvements. It is also extremely clean. We enjoyed the excellent pies and desserts courtesy of Alan Clark, with the enormous multi-layer strawberry and cream cake being my favourite.

The next day those of us remaining put up some posters in the ranger centre car park to advertise our “open hut” afternoon. Printer problems meant the posters were hand drawn with the aid of some wine the night before. Fortunately Fiona had brought along a pencil case full of colouring pens.

Katie, Jon, Jojo, Alison and Sonal enjoyed a walk up to Loch Brandy and did a little yoga after the climb under Sonal’s tuition. Iain, Alistair and Fiona also went for a walk nearby.

By mid-afternoon reinforcements for the Social Meet were beginning to arrive – Moira, Tony and Ken. Unfortunately unforeseen circumstances meant we had a couple of cancellations – but they still baked cake for us, couriered by Moira and Tony. True commitment to the club. This was scoffed down by the 6 guests who were lured in by our posters and are all
potentially interested in becoming members.

All in all an enjoyable and relaxing weekend. Very different to the work meets some of you will remember from the early days of the hut – now the hut is up and running the time pressure is off and all the heavy work is done. Not one rock was moved or a shovel lifted!

Best wishes,
Katie

Secretary
CDMC

September Loch Ken Campsite

1 9 2017 - 3 9 2017

This month’s meet was held at the Galloway Activities Centre on the eastern shore of Loch Ken (www.lochken.co.uk).

Five club members attended the meet for the weekend: Alan, Janet, Lindsay, Vania and Jim (coordinator and author). Six places in two rooms had been booked by Alan but there were also other types of accommodation available within the centre grounds; Yuts, camping, eco-bothies and lochside cabins.

The bunkhouse was a modern affair which could accommodate twenty people in five rooms. The rooms were split either side of a central open plan area where the lounge and kitchen was located. Toilets and showers were available but there were additional ablutions in the centre’s main building. A TV, microwave, electric cooker and small fridge with a freezer compartment were provided but it was hard to see how potentially twenty people could function here. The centre has a café so it looks as though they would prefer it if people ate there. We booked a table on the Saturday evening to enjoy the Galloway Gourmet Burger Night.

Alan, Janet and Lindsay stopped off on the way down to climb Cairnsmore of Fleet arriving at the centre around 1730. Jim arrived shortly before with Vania arriving around 1000.

The next day’s plan was that Alan, Janet, Lindsay and Vania would climb Corserine but I opted to not climb due to an Achilles tendon problem. Instead I brought my mountain bike and planned to ride around the SE section of the Galloway Forest Park: this area was south of the A712 and west of Loch Ken. Our Burger Night sitting was time restricted so it was in everybody’s interest to get back in time!

A beautiful morning set us off. Alan’s group route was from the Forest Lodge parking area, skirting Loch Harrow to Summit Corserine then follow the ridge SSE (Rhinns of Kells) to Meikla Millyea then trek back through the forest to the Lodge car park. Lindsay had been thinking about her burger and timing all day so when a slight dispute arose about the choice of the route back she made the executive decision and all made it back in good time. I drove round to the west of Loch Ken to the car park at Mossdale and cycled a short
distance down the dismantled railway to the shore of Stroan Loch. Turning north I visited the Secret Cages of the Red Kite project and to the Bennan Hill view point before following the forest trails north running parallel to the west shore od Loch Ken. The route took me west at Cairn Edward then back south to the Raisers Road then east to the picnic area at the the otter pools. I opted to follow the Raiders Road to the Chatteringshaws Loch Dam Visitors Centre for a coffee and cake before my return south on the No:7 National Cycle Route to the Big Water of Fleet Viaduct. I crossed the viaduct and picked up the old
railway line to head back to Mossdale. Unfortunately the old line here was heavily overgrown in places but passable with caution. At one point I was up to my knees in swamp and had to manhandle the bike off the line but made it to a point where the trail surface was good and headed back to the van in good time for the burger dinner. All in all, 5½hrs riding and some 55km covered with two tics found the next day.

I had a bit of saddle soreness so I headed home on Sunday while Alan’s group opted to climb The Merrick. Somebody mentioned (no names) that this hill was close to Selkirk. Janet found a brochure and pointed out the geography of southern Scotland. I hope they all got home OK! There are other stories to tell about this weekend but will save them for another day, another meet.

Regards,
Jim Plaice

August Galloway

Steall Hut

4 8 2017 - 6 8 2017

A small gathering of 7 attended the meet. Janet, Alan, Lindsay and Jim met at the top car park and walked in to open the hut on Friday night. Much later they were joined by Katie, Jon and Sonal, who lost her bottle of Rum on the walk in (thankfully her Tia Maria made it!!)

Saturday
Jon wanted to climb Sgurr a Mhaim, his last Munro to bag in the area. So Jon, Katie and Sonal completed the ring of Steall – An Gearanach, Stob Coire a’Chairn, Am Bodach and Sgurr a’Mhaim – at usual speed only taking 8 hours. They encountered rain, hail, rainbows and a couple of ravens. The rest of the bunch headed for Sgurr Choinnich Beag and Sgurr Choinnich Mhor on the opposite side of the Glen. The day started with factor 30 being applied then waterproofs on, off, on and off again. Great views all round.

Sunday
Katie, Jon and Sonal ended up climbing Stob Ban. The ascent was fine, with views on the top, then it rained the whole way back to the car park. Janet, Lindsay, Alan and Jim opted for an easy day, but got a Dow adventure instead, looking for Samuel’s cave further down the glen. After a lot of scrambling around the cave was found and explored. A successful weekend and looking forward to Loch Ken in September!

July Fannichs Aultguish Bunkhouse

7 7 2017 - 9 7 2017

June Fisherfield Shenavall

2 6 2017 - 4 6 2017

Friday

Alan, Lindsay, Janet, Trish, Lawrie, and Dave arrived at Corrie Hallie as arranged 16:00. Before the 7ks walk in, a birthday was celebrated, Alan joined the “SEVENTIES CLUB ” a cake and wine to wash it down was produced plus cards and “presies” of a Tee Shirt with the Gaelic wording CUIR EASBSA ANN AM, and a Baseball cap to match, Alan was fare tickled PINK !!!! Translation: ask Alan the next time you see him.

We arrived at Shenavall in brilliant sunshine with views of the Fisherfield hills in all their glory

Saturday

Lawrie, Janet and Iain ( who arrived in the small hours on Saturday) had an early start (5ish) their mission was the “Big Six” – Beinn a’ Chaidheimh, Sgurr Ban, Mullach Coire Mhic Fhearchair, Beinn Tarsuinn, A’ Mhaighdean and Rhuadh Stuc Mor. Alan, Lindsay, Trish and Dave left sometime later – their mission was the 2 Corbetts Beinn Dearg Mor and Beinn Dearg Beag.

The days forecast was pretty spot on, bright sunny spells with heavy rain / hail, thunder and lightening, amazing the groups got back dry.

Sunday

After a late start and leisurely breakfast, the group broke camp and walked out to Corrie Hallie by the longer route via Achneigie.

A most appreciated cup of tea/coffee was served to the stragglers by Lawrie who with Lindsay were the first back getting the kettle on. “Brilliant”

Another memorable weekend. “MISSIONS ACCOMPLISHED”

May Knoydart Inverie Bunkhouse/Camping

5 5 2017 - 7 5 2017

April

Invercroft

7 4 2017 - 9 4 2017

The venue for the April meet was the Jacobites’ hut at Invercroft, Achnasheen, attended by Alan, Colin, Dave (Sat only), Iain, Janet, Jim, Ken, Lawrie, Lindsay, Stewart and Vania. Despite a Jacobite-warning of wellies being required to access the hut, all arrived dry-footed courtesy of a raised wooden walkway across Loch Gowan.

Friday evening saw the early birds opening up, lighting the fire, and a few made their way to the Ledgowan Lodge to work on an invite to Saturday night’s dance (finding later that walking legs and dancing legs don’t mix). When most of the group were catching up in front of the fire, two unexpected guests appeared at the door asking……’is this the Ling Hut?’ After advising them in the nicest possible way that their navigation skills had gone awry, they were last seen heading into the night, hopefully in the direction of their friends at the Ling.

Saturday turned out to be a good day weather-wise. Stewart was first out heading to Sgorr Ruadh and Beinn Liath Mhor; closely followed by Iain in the direction of Slioch. Colin had Moruisg as his target for the day; and Ken (practicing solo walking for a big day coming soon) made his way from Achnashellach via Glenuig Lodge and Scardroy back to Invercroft. The big group of six – Alan, Janet, Jim, Lawrie, Lindsay and Vania – parked at Coulags walked up by Fionn-abhainn for a tea-break at the bothy. They then disappeared in three different directions to An Ruadh Stac, Maol Chean Dearg and Meall nan Ceapairean, managing to regroup in time for a second bothy stop. Saturday night, as usual, saw group members sharing their day’s experience, Iain having declared sight of one golden eagle, only to be trumped by Dave, newly-arrived from an expedition up Strath Rushden, claiming sight of two on his day in the hills.

With Sunday’s weather not looking too promising, Colin, Iain, Jim and Stewart headed for home, while Dave and Ken were last seen still deciding what to do next. Alan, Janet, Lawrie, Lindsay and Vania made a half-hearted attempt to reach Fuar Tholl (or to look at in anyway) with skies darkening at each step. The path up the glen has been adopted by the local walking group and members were out digging ditches (for anyone looking for a new project!). By 1pm all had turned back, the final few managing to get a soaking before the car park. Refuge was taken at the Ledgowan, joined by the ditch-diggers, before heading for home.

All in all an enjoyable weekend only partially spoiled by the weather.

March Glencoe Lagangargh S M C Hut

3 3 2017 - 5 3 2017

The March meet was held at the Lagangarbh hut in Glencoe with allocated bed spaces for 14 persons. This is a popular venue which attracted 16 people wishing to attend. Although we had a couple of withdrawals for overnight accommodation the club broke even by filling the full 14 slots.

One of those attending the meet was Sieglinde Bucher, a guest from a ramblers group. Jim met her at Stirling railway station and travelled up to Glencoe in the camper van. On approaching the hut, Jim noticed what appeared to be, two shady characters that seemed to be casing the joint but these turned out to be Rhona and Maggi who had arrived 10 or minutes before. After introductions, it was hugs and belated New Year kisses all-round. The weather on Friday was good but it deteriorated overnight resulting in a miserable Saturday morning which had an impact on individuals climbing plans.

Rhona and Maggi climbed the Devils Staircase to Kinlochleven and met up with a few others at the Ice Climbing Centre café in the afternoon. We were not sure how many slices of cake had been consumed but when one hears the comment, ‘I shouldn’t have that last piece’, one must draw one’s own conclusion.

Colin was going to Ballahulish and would drive the girls back. Neil and Sandra tackled the main street of Fort William for a bit of retail therapy.

Ken walked to Kinlochleven, via the devils Staircase but also visiting the Black Water Reservoir graveyard for the workers who lost their lives during the constructing the dam. (The hydroelectric scheme was constructed in the early 1900s. The dam was built using hand tools, without the benefit of mechanical earth moving machinery, and has been
described as the last major creation of the traditional ‘navvy’ whose activities in the construction of canals and railways left an indelible mark on the British countryside. (Wikipedia)).

Phil climbed the Graham, Beinn na Guraig, from Inchree and was rewarded with good views in the afternoon. Sieglinde was happy to do a low level walk and teamed up with Jojo to walk the Lairig Gartain and Lairag Eilde round the Buachaille Etive Beag.

Alan, Dave, Lindsay, Lawrie, (arr. Saturday morning) and Jim set off for Kinlochleven to climb Glas Bheinn but access across a weir at the west end of Loch Eilde Mor was under construction for a new water pipe line and therefore impassable. A crossing point was found further downstream but too late by then to tackle the hill. Photographs of the construction and ground disturbance are posted on the group website.

Scot arrived late Saturday evening but was bright eyed and bushy ready tailed for a Sunday climb. Sunday weather was very good so some groups decided to go for a tick.

Alan’s group climbed Beinna Chrulaiste and was rewarded with magnificent views of Stob Dearg and north up Glencoe and surrounding area but the icing on the cake were the two para-gliders presumably launching themselves off Stob Dearg. It was intended to come off the hill via the Kings House Hotel but a small issue about keys for the vehicle to be used for
the return cropped up!

Jojo and Sigi planned to tackle Sron Gharbh and if time permitted Am Bodach. Sigi was planning her return to Glasgow via Crianlarich railway station.

Ken planned to move to Inbhirfhaolain via Lairig Gartain then onto Cadderlie Bothy

February Roy Bridge Aite Cruinnichidh Hostel

3 2 2017 - 5 2 2017

Despite a less-than-perfect weather forecast for the weekend, some twelve souls made it to the ‘Àite Cruinnichidh’ backpackers hostel near Roybridge. After the usual uming-and-ahing on a dreich morning, we set off in three groups.

Jim Plaice, Janet Sinclair, Alison Todd and Lawrie Wilson set off eastwards with the intention to do a round of Beinn a’ Chaorainn and Beinn Teallach. Due to the inclement weather conditions they did just the first top. Jim Plaice put a few photos on the Yahoo group website, including one of the snowman they built (or is it a “snowperson” :)).

Dave Duncan, Vania Kennedy, Alan Dow, Sandra and Neil Cameron headed south up Lairig Leacach aiming for Cruach Innse and Sgurr Innse. Again, wind and weather cut those plans short with just one top completed.

Scott Moncur, Phil Blackwood and Jojo Neff drove up the road to Glen Loy for a low-level walk up towards Glen Sulaig bothy. The bothy was in a good condition and we stopped there for an early lunch. Scott and Phil then headed back down the glen whilst I went up the way to Druim Fada. At this time, it started snowing in big fat flakes and it turned more wintery as I ascended. My compass took me along the ridge heading eastwards and down the other side through recently cut woods to Corpach. Once below the clouds the snow stopped and there were some clear views across the water to the base of Ben Nevis. By bus
and train I returned to Roybridge and from there on foot to the hostel. Dinner was followed by the usual knees-up in the comfy dining kitchen at the hostel.

The forecast was somewhat better for Sunday with higher clouds, less wind and precipitation. I can’t recall all activities for this day but a few folk went home. Janet and Jim (I think) returned to complete yesterday’s mission of climbing Beinn Teallach. Dave, Vania and Alan went for one of the Carn Deargs in Glen Roy. Phil and Jojo went further up Glen Roy to climb two other Carn Deargs and Glas Bheinn before visiting Luib-chonnal bothy. A very spacious and well equipped place, including wood burning stove and a ready supply of wood.

Glen Roy with its many Carn Deargs made me wonder whether it is time to draw up another tick list of “The Deargs” for those running out of Munros, Corbetts, Grahams, Marilyns and molehills. I would include all tops of that name regardless of height. Any volunteers ?

January Crianlarich

13 1 2017 - 15 1 2017

AGM Hosted

December Christmas Meet

2 12 2016 - 4 12 2016

The CDMC meet to Woodlands House, Kingussie, went very well with great attendance, accommodation, food and weather.

28 people rocked up over the weekend and many hills were climbed. Apologies if I make some errors in matching hills and people in the following! Jon, Katie, Sonal, Jojo, Alison and Gintas climbed Sgor Gaoith and did yoga at the summit (photo attached shows the “Tree” position). Colin, Sue, Iain, Innes and Vania (I think) went up the corbett at the back of Kingussie (Carn an Fhreiceadain I think) (photo attached). Ken and Stewart Bryne also went up this corbett, I think. Dave, Alan, Janet, Sandra, Neil and Lawrie went up Carn Dearg Mhor. Colin Harris visited Aviemore library (west side). Michael the Drumochter hill path and Moira and Tony visited Loch Morlich.

We had a very tasty dinner on Saturday night (photo of gathering attached) and a carol singing session (Jon on ukulele, Katie on fiddle).

On Sunday we enjoyed the leftovers for breakfast. Some folk went home, Scott went up the nearby corbett, myself, Jon, Sonal, Alison and Gintas had a great day on Geal Charn and I’m sure a lot of other people went up hills but I left without noting down the destinations – sorry.

There wasn’t much snow up high but we managed to find a few solid patches for practicing ice axe arrests on – whoopee.

Thanks to everyone who came and made this a great meet.

Katie

President
Carn Dearg Mountaineering Club

October Cannich

7 10 2016 - 9 10 2016

The meet was attended by 10 campers arriving on the Friday evening. Dave arrived first to guard the area of the campsite that had been set aside for us by the warden. Alan and co. arrived soon after and Alan widened the access a little by brushing the side of the van against the fence post. We were soon joined by Angus, Ken and Alan Forrester with son Fred.

Our camp was well sheltered on the windward side by a group of stored caravans and Dave found a quiet ‘glade’ formed by caravans on three sides. Lindsay having tried a few places which were a little low lying and damp opted to lift her tent and disappeared completely amongst the throng of caravans. It did not take long to set up camp and thanks to Ken and Angus a picnic bench found its way through the adjacent stand of trees, climbed the embankment and relocated itself conveniently in the middle of our camp. This formed the hub of the camp as kitchen, dining table, bar and social centre and was much appreciated by all.

Lawrie, John and Janet were trying out new tents at this meet and Angus was also trying out a ‘new’ 30 year old tent before making an offer to purchase it from its owner and boosting his collection to four.

Saturday morning was heralded by Ken rousing the campers bright and early and in no time kettles were boiling, breakfast prepared and gear made ready for the day’s excursions.

Alan (D) and Dave set out to add to their tally of corbetts by tackling Beinn a’ Bhathaich Ard from Glen Strathfarrar. Ken and Angus were joined by Alan (F) and son Fred on the ascent of two munros, Tom a’ Choinich and Toll Creagach, via Gleann nam Fiadh off Glen Affric. Lawrie, John, Lindsay and Janet set off to tackle the munro, Sgurr Fhuar–thuill by way of the stalkers’ path from Glen Strathfarrar then along the ridge to the second munro, Sgurr a’ Choire Ghlais, descending south and west to contour below Gob a Chairn and back to the path. The weather stayed dry for most of the day with only an occasional shower. Cloud base was high and visibility good but the wind was stronger than forecast making the going more difficult at times on the tops. All returned safely and pleased with the day’s work. Soon preprepared meals were being heated by the chefs and contents of tins heated by the others while Alan (F) put us all to shame by producing full steak dinners on his camping stove. Thanks of course to Janet for her lemon drizzle cake which was enjoyed by all.

November Glen Etive

The Smiddy

6 11 2015 - 8 11 2015

The venue for the November meet was the Smiddy at the bottom end of Glen Etive. We had a full house with 15 members & guests attending for the weekend. Great to see so many new members on the meet – welcome to you all!

After a bit of a struggle to get the hut water supply working we settled down with the usual Friday evening banter augmented by some intensive work filling in forms to assist with a research project looking at the effects of outdoor exercise on emotional well being. This exercise was aided by some excellent cakes supplied by Janet & Josee and a few drinks.

With daylight hours being short in November, Saturday saw an early start. A large group – Lindsay, Lawrie, Alan, Davie & Janet – headed for Meall nan Eun. They were joined by Josee, Scott, Sue & Colin who then headed onto Stob Coir an Albannaich and just about managed to return in daylight. Katie, Lucy, Dau & Gintas were seen to be analysing climbing guides over breakfast but elected to head for the Starav group and an even longer day. Gav headed for Beinn Trillechan while Colin drove back to Crianlarich to climb Beinn Chabhair. Despite a fairly pessimistic forecast weather was pretty good – mostly dry and mostly clear summits. We returned to the hut to complete part 2 of the survey (it isn’t clear if we were more positive after a good day on the hill but it can’t have done any harm!)

Sunday was a beautiful day. Katie & party headed to Agag’s Groove and Curved Ridge on the Buachaille (the previous day’s analysis of guide books was clearly just very advanced planning!). Janet, Alan, Lawrie, Davie & Gav headed a bit up the glen to Beinn Maol Chaluim. Sue & Colin did a bit of low level wandering & the others headed home. Good weekend!

March Roy Bridge

6 3 2015 - 8 3 2015

15 CDMC-ers gathered in Roybridge this weekend. The weather on Saturday was pretty grim (incessant rain and high winds) so Alan, Janet, Laurie, Scott, Wendy, Josee and Jude battled their way to a bothy. Shaun, Katie, Dau, Gintas and Lucy attempted to run to the same bothy but had to beat a retreat, finding the wind too strong to run into. Nonetheless we had a good time getting thoroughly muddy and wading along flooded tracks. Colin headed to Aviemore and Neil and Sandra to Steall. The lack of hill bagging meant everyone had plenty of energy left for playing board games in the evening. We were also entertained by the other guests at the hut: some students who played strip poker before progressing to the sauna (the bunkhouse is very well equipped). On Sunday the weather was much improved so Alan, Janet and Laurie headed up Carn Dearg and Dau, Gintas, Lucy and Katie headed up Stob a’ Choire Mheadhoin and Stob Coire Easain. This was a great day with a few squalls, but plenty of rainbows and two cloud free munros. Despite the thaw on Saturday there was still plenty of snow and ice underfoot and we enjoyed a couple of hundred metres of bum sliding on the descent.

February Braemar

6 2 2015 - 8 2 2015

A group of 14 arrived at various times on Friday at the Shieling, between 4pm and midnight, those who arrived early were handed a peeler to prepare the tatties and neeps for the Saturday night Burns Supper.

Saturday>> Awoke to a cold and clear sunny morning .  Kenny was first to set off to catch the 08:20 bus for Inver, being the starting point for his days walk over Culardoch and Cairn Liath, returning to Invercauld for the afternoon bus back to Braemar.   Dave, Alan, Lindsay, Scott, Wendy, Phoebe and Christine drove round to Auchcallater then headed up the Callater Glen and traversed over Sron Dubh to the summit of Creag nan Gabhar, from the top they decided to head down the broad ridge to Lochcallater Lodge Bothy for a late lunch, as there was little shelter from the cold wind on the tops.   It was a pleasant surprise to meet Brian in the bothy, who had walked up the Callater Glen.     Grant made his way round to Glen Quoich for a days photograghy ,   Angus was to head for Ballachbuie Forest but changed his plans due to the road walk instead had a fine day on Morrone above Braemar. Colin, Sue, Paul and Phil headed to Glen Ey for a day’s ski trip over Carn Bhac, but found at times ski-ing over grass as well as snow, as at places the tops were wind swept of snow, same conditions were found by all parties.   There was probably more snow in Braemar than on the tops.

Ian, Innes and Colin joined the group for another grand Burns Supper on Satuday night , Angus gave the “ Dressing of the Haggis” and his Tam o’ Shanter was full of passion and actions ”” Well done Angus, great stuff””

Sunday >> Dave, Alan, Lindsay, Christine, Kenny, Angus and Phil had a great day on Carn na Drochaide, the views were amazing, especially looking out to the Cairngorms, it was one of those days you were reluctant to come off the hill, “Brill”.  As those were the only names in the Meet Book for Sunday , I can only assume the rest of the group headed for home or “gone walk abouts”.

December Glen Feshie

Mill Cottage

5 12 2014 - 7 12 2014

This weekend saw Mill cottage inundated by CDMCers. 23 people at least (there were a lot and I may have lost count) enjoyed a great weekend. Saturday was windy and clagged in on the higher tops but we dispersed undaunted to many summits: Phil headed off to Ben Rinnes (where the sunshine was), Alan, Janet, Lindsay, Tony and Moira headed up Meall a Bhuchaille, Neil and Sandy up Geal Charn Mor, Gavin up Carn Dearg More, Colin up Cairn Gorm, Brian and Angus bagged Ryvoan bothy, and Dave, Morven, Rhona and Maggie went for bike rides. I headed up Braeriach starting from Achlean, which was quite hard work navigationally in the poor visibility and relatively featureless landscape. I staggered back shortly before Christmas dinner was served, which as ever was amazingly tasty, copious, and well prepared by Neil and his army of kitchen elves.

After dinner we were wowed by two new musicians in the club: Gavin on the guitar, banjo, and unexpected lyrics, and James Moncur on the small pipes. Incredibly James managed to play Christmas carols beautifully on his pipes, and we managed to sing along without putting him off. Tony, Brian and Dave also lead a few tunes, backed up lustily by the Carn Dearg Choir.
On Sunday we woke to windows caked in snow, with an inch or so of soft snow in the car park and more falling gently throughout breakfast. This struck fear into my heart and I resolved to move my car to a major road asap. Less skittish members headed down smaller roads to enjoy the scenery: Scott and James going up from Achlean towards Carn Ban Mor and Alan, Lindsay and Janet going to appreciate the views at Loch an Eilein. Once I had my car safely stashed at Coylumbridge I went for a gentle run through Rothiemurchus forest and round Loch Morlich. Lovely Christmassy forest scenery.