So the time finally came. After passing this way a few years ago on the Highlander MM DW and I had planned to return and do the Fisherfield 6. It has taken a while but now it's happening. At that time there were 6 munro's in the round but one has been demoted (by about a metre). Nevertheless anyone doing the round should not miss it out. It is part of the round regardless.
I am not going to go into too much detail about names and route taken. That would spoil it. There is plenty of information out there if you want it. Our plan was originally to camp and avoid any crowds at Shenavall Bothy, however on the walk in from Corrie Hallie it rained a lot so the bothy was a welcome sight. And quiet. Just a couple of Cape Wrath Trail walkers going in opposite directions. They also got a fire going which was great.
We planned to stay in the bothy the next night before walking out so no need for an early start. The first climb of the day is inevitably the biggest and typically Scottish. Towards the summit we were greeted by a strong breeze and a bit of rain that felt like hail. No views. We press on donning waterproof trousers. The weather was forecast to improve and did so throughout the day, ending in a beautiful evening.
So one down (not now a Munro) and five to go. It was quite a long way to the second summit and a bit of a bouldery climb. The breeze turned to a vicious wind on the top and through the decent but did not bother us after that. The second Munro is the highest and the climb steep but it went well. I had been concerned about my fitness but so far so good. We take a break on the summit. Views improving. 3 to go.
A couple of the descents are as bad as the climbs, bouldery and care needed. But the climb to the third Munro is mainly grass and pleasant. We don't linger here but take a few photos on the way to the 'Tennis Court'. Now comes a big drop to a large col and the lowest point of the round. Inevitably followed by a big climb (which I strangely enjoy) to what is regarded as the remotest Munro and one with possibly the finest views. I cannot argue with that. Only 1 to go.
The Tennis Court
On the descent we have to negotiate a snow patch. It is soft and no real problem. Decision not to carry spikes and ice axe just OK. The final climb is the shortest but a bit scrambley and rocky, we are soon on the summit and feeling good. The breeze although slight is still cool so after the obligatory photos we start the long descent. And it is long.
Final summit
Back at the bothy new residents are in and eventually we have another fire. Next day again a leisurely start and walk out. Drive to Avimore and a well earned all day breakfast. A very good trip.
Oh and they were DW's last Munros.
Russell
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