Ardnamurchan 18th June 2012

We left Glasgow late Sunday evening and headed north towards Arnamurchan. The drive was very pleasant with views across Loch Lomond, Tyndrum hills then up onto Rannoch Moor and eventually the spectacular drive through Glencoe. Luckily we made it to Corran just in time to get the last ferry over to Ardgour.

The evening view from Camas nan Geall, Ardnamurchan. 17/06/2012 (Photo: A J Thorley)

We continued our journey to a view point over looking Camas nan Geall, Ben Hiant and with amazing views across the Sound of Mull. It was here we pitched the tent and enjoyed the views before turning in for the night.


Meal An Fhir-Eoin Beag, Ardnamurchan 18/06/2012 (Photo: A J Thorley)


The following day we woke early with the bright sun shine and that familiar pitter patter, not the pitter patter of rain, but that of the Scottish Midge. There was nothing we could do but dash to the car as quick as we could and escape! Mingary Pier was the chosen location for breakfast with stunning views across the Sound of Mull and a nice breeze. After a bacon butty and a coffee it was time to head off to the volcanic ring of Ardnamurchan. We parked at a small lay by at Druin Liath and walked out along the 4 x 4 track to the ruins at Glendrian, before heading northeast to Meall An Fhir-Eoin Beag. It was a glorious day and the climbs had been in our sight for most of the walk in and the excitement and anticipation was growing.




Me at the 1st belay stance of An Toiseach VD*, Ardnamurchan 18/06/2012 (Photo: A J Thorley)

After a pleasant 45 minute walk we were there, it was time to gear up and climb. An Toiseach VD* was our 1st climb of the day followed by Krakatoa S4b*, both climbs in a spectacular setting on wonderfully sound, rough gabbro. We then headed to Meall An Fhir-Eoin to climb Beth's Route VD*, again another delightful climb on excellent rock. On the summit of Meall An Fhir-Eoin, we had lunch, basked in the sun and took in the spectacular views out towards Rum, Eigg and Skye. 

The views from the summit of Meall An Fhir-Eoin Beag, Rum, Eigg and Skye in the background. Ardnamurchan 18/06/12             (Photo: A J Thorley)

Late afternoon we returned to the car and headed to Sanna Bay, where at our last visit we chanced upon a series of short walls that would be ideal for an evenings bouldering.


Vicks enjoying the bouldering at Sanna Bay, Ardnamurchan 18/06/2012 (Photo: A J Thorley)

As we expected the bouldering turned out to be great fun and we stayed out until sun down before heading back to the tent for a well earned bowl of pasta and a beer.


Me enjoying the bouldering at Sanna Bay, Ardnamurchan. 18/06/2012 (Photo: A J Thorley)

Unfortunately the following day the heavens opened and heavy rain signalled an early retreat to Glasgow. Our trip to Ardnamurchan may have been short, but it was certainly well worth it and I am very much looking forward to returning in the future.