Five of the best part 2

Beinn na Caillich

Number 4 in the best 5 runs ever.

September 2010

Having been invited to a friends wedding on Skye we (wife and I) decide to make it a long weekend. We must have been the luckiest people ever as the weather was perfect for 3 days. After the wedding on Saturday we headed to Elgol on Sunday after which I had a few hours to spare. Our B&B was at Old Corry so a trip up Beinn na Caillich seemed almost compulsory.

Taking our landlords advice I did not head straight for the summit as might seem normal but went into Coire Fearchair and onto the North East ridge.  A good choice. The direct route is covered in shattered boulders and very tough going. I was however very soon aware of how isolated I was despite being only a mile or so from the B&B. A boulder I stood on rolled over and gave me a nasty scratch. Not expected back for 3 or more hours I would have had a long wait for help with a broken leg.

The ridge was steep but with the frequent stops to take in the views it was worth it. However reaching the summit was even better giving a distant view if the Cuillin Ridge.

Here I am.

There was a cool breeze so keeping moving was essential. And after taking these photos my phone ran out of battery. More alone now! The run to Beinn Dearg Mhor was pure pleasure and more great views. Stop for biscuit. I had read about the descent to Bealach Coire Sgreamhach so set of down with some caution. Obviously the authors of those articles do not appreciate the finer points of scree running. I was brilliant!! On to Beinn Dearg Bheag. Then follow the ridge east to Coire Beithe. The running became very technical. A rocky twisting path with intermittent bouldery bits and bog. A twisted ankle here would not be good. Soon down into the heather and bilberry covered lower slopes the path disappeared and intermittent trods led me to Coire-chat-achan. The B&B and a hot shower.

This was special because there is nothing like a solo run on new ground. And I didn't see another soul. It holds the concentration to the exclusion of all else and makes you very aware of your frailties.

If you head to Skye don't just go for the Cuillin. You will be missing out.

Russell