Assynt & Coigach 2012

Stac Pollaidh

Whilst the rain fell incessantly on most of the UK during the past week (and for countless weeks before that), warm sunshine was the order of the day in the far north-west.  That said, I only have one true hillwalking day to record: the ascent and circumnavigation of that wee jewel of Coigach: Stac Pollaidh.

The Way Up......And Down!

Danielle was new to the Highlands - and to mountains in general - so this seemed to be the ideal place to start.  One of the many joys of this walk is the ever-changing view as you circle the peak.  The path is easy and well-engineered and it only takes about an hour to complete the rising traverse around the eastern end of the hill and gain the skyline.

Ben More Coigach & Loch Lurgainn

Here, the view abruptly changes again and today the complex pattern of the peaks, corries and buttresses of Ben More Coigach could be clearly seen across the shimmering waters of Loch Lurgainn almost 2,000' below us.

The Coigach Peaks From Achnahaird

Having paused to experience the enjoyable view and not-so-enjoyable banal chit-chat of 2 young ladies behind us, we descended on the north side of the peak and regained the circular path which we followed back to the upward route and then down to the car.

Cul Beag & Loch Lurgainn

Further (loud) vocal accompaniment was provided by an American lady member of a guided group in front of us who continued to assail her group, without pause, all the way down!  She was from New Jersey and I know everything about her - as does everybody else who happened upon Stac Pollaidh that day...

Cul Mor

So, no more hills this week, but plenty of opportunities for some great photos of these amazing peaks.  Hope you enjoy them!

View From the Hoose!

Check out my plans for similar walks at: http://www.hillways.co.uk/summer/summer.htm

Ben More Coigach