Over The Hill

Ben More has gained a formidable reputation for being a "relentless" slog up its steep grassy slopes; one possible reason that this was the first time I, and quite a few others in our group, were attempting this particular climb. The weather was fantastic, blue skies with just a few whispers of light cloud around, a light breeze, at least on the lower slopes, which turned to quite a strong, cooling wind as we reached the exposed summit area. A great day for a challenging mountain.

Departing the layby it was only a few steps beyond the trees before we joined a good farm track which zigzagged uphill away from the farm and towards a gate into open hillside. It was here that we left this fine track to join a fairly obvious path which now headed almost directly up the broad, open hillside towards the distant skyline. And yes, the climb is "relentless"; however, not quite as formidable as was expected and, with the fine weather offering the opportunity for a few short breaks en route, we were soon passing through the 750m height and making our way along the north side of the short stretch of old wall that ensures you stay well away from the rather precipitous crags and headwall of Sloc Curraidh lying to the west of the summit plateau. A short, rocky section of path winds its way up through a few crags before emerging in a sweeping curve up the final few metres of this broad, stoney summit plateau, topped with a mighty cairn and adjacent Trig Point.

Among our local Munros, it is rare to find one that is a new conquest for anyone in our group; but today it was quite the opposite, for 10 out of our group of 15 it was a new tick in their Munro tally, so it was congratulations all around, and, even for the other 5 who had been here before it was a notable day as they recalled a conquest from the distant past. And, our conquests were not yet done. With the fine weather and plenty of daylight left, Ian decided to split the group so that those who wanted yet more of the day, could take the opportunity to summit Ben More's neighbour, Stob Binnein. So, we split into 3 groups, one of 8, who immediately set off en route to Stob Binnein followed a short while later by Janet, Alan and myself, also destined for Stob Binnein, and finally, Ian led the way for the remainder down to the bealach before swinging westwards on the descent towards the Benmore Burn for a leisurely return to Benmore Farm.

From Bealach-eadar-dha Bheinn, a clear, rocky path winds its way up the 300m ascent of the north ridge of Stob Binnein, near the top of which we encountered our group of 8 as they descended back to the bealach, leaving we 3 to gain the grassy summit shortly afterwards, yet another new Munro for Janet, her second of the day. We settled down for a leisurely break on this fine mountain summit, and to take in some spectacular views, with Ben Nevis just visible through a sunny haze - Brilliant.

Eventually we made our descent back to Bealach-eadar-dha Bheinn and from there, westwards down a broken but distinct path to join the Benmore Burn and eventually pick up the fine estate track for a leisurely walk back to our starting point at Benmore Farm.

A fantastic day, wonderful company and brilliant weather - Just amazing - Thanks Ian.