Over The Hill

The original plan for today was to climb Beinn Dubhchraig from Dalrigh. However, recent snowfall on the higher hills and a forecast of more snow, icy conditions and winds in excess of 30mph had us rethinking our options. And so, we stayed local, and headed for Tullich Hill, a hill I had done on a number of occasions, but never from Invergroin, in Glen Douglas, our chosen start point for today.

Ian and Mike took the lead, having done this route a few month ago, and were therefore familiar with the need to hunt down the gates and stiles to see us through or over the fences that align the lower slopes above Invergroin separating the grazing land from the newer plantations around the base of the mountain.

There is no defined path or track up this hillside, rather, it is a matter of finding the path of least resistance through the mound of rough grass followed by the usual uneven and rutted ground common to newly developed and young plantations. But, it was a beautiful day and we were in no hurry, so we just took our time working our way from gate to stile as we progressed up the hillside. And here I should mention the rather unusual “budget” stile to be found at the deer fence. Simply a length of sturdy rope anchored to a stake with a loop to hook your boot into and hoist yourself over the fence. I had a go, but even with my reasonable long legs it was not to be. Thankfully, Ian and Mike were aware of a fine wooden stile just a short distance along the fence which offered a much easier means to cross this barrier.

The final fence line is crossed at the 300m height, and immediately there is a change underfoot. Gone are the mounds of rough grass and bracken to be replaced by a pleasant grassy hillside with even the appearance of a faint track leading up the now steeper hillside. The day was not for rushing, so we settled on this fine hillside to enjoy a mid-morning break and enjoy the ever expanding views.

On our way again, we were soon taking the final steps towards the small cairn that marks the 632m summit of Tullich Hill where we paused just long enough to take a few summit photos before heading off to visit the slightly lower north east top from where we made the short descent to the fine, and almost hidden, un-named lochan which is nestled between two craggy bluffs, a small gem on this wee hill.

There are a couple of options for the descent from Tullich Hill and return to Invergroin; a fine round can be completed by heading for Ben Reoch and then onto Beinn Bhreac, or to retrace our steps back down the hillside, and it was this option we settled on; after all, it was a beautiful day, and an easy, leisurely descent was what was called for. Although, we did put the descent to good use by surveying the possibility of yet another more south westerly descent route skirting the crags and returning via the new plantation. But, that’s for another day. A fine day, great company, and a beautiful little hill. Thanks everyone.