Over The Hill

A mixed weather forecast with some areas having a clear, sunny day and others, with mist and cloud lingering for most of the day; and as we drove through a dull grey Glen Fruin it looked like we were destined for the later. Oh! How wrong we were.

Grey and murky it was as we tramped up the lower slopes of The Strone into the mist where the grassy slopes gradually began to disappear under a covering of fine snow which steadily increased in depth as we gained height. Ahead, the outlook still looked gloomy, until suddenly we emerged from the gloom into a wonderland of crisp white snow and clear blue skies - quite breathtaking. And so it remained for the rest of the day.

The cloud inversion was complete, as far as we could see, with only the tops of the surrounding hills breaking above the thick layer of cloud - as was commented more than once, it was like looking down from an aeroplane. Regarded as our local hills, being a few minutes drive from either Helensburgh or Balloch, these "little hills" are full of surprises, and today was no exception, as our first winter snow walk of the season, this one has set the bar very high; it will take a lot to surpass such wonderful conditions.

Great walk - outstanding beauty, and fine company, what more could we ask for - Thanks Trish.