SEPTEMBER 2009
Walk review from Dee Taylor 13th September 2009 Beinn Liath Mhor(926m) Achnashellach.
After the weeks of rain we had, it was a bright sunny morning that greeted us at 8am at Auchtertyre Business Park as 7 members set off on a 2-car share to Achnashellach. The walk -in started at the lay-by beside the telephone box, which is passed as you walk up the path to cross the railway line at the station. Forking left at the next junction of 3 paths, we had a very pleasant walk firstly through a wooded area with the River Lair running beside us and then the path opened up ascending into Coir Lair. During the walk-in, the cloud was shrouding the hilltops, but blue skies were in our favour. After about 1 hour, we arrived at the very grand cairn where we took the right spur for a very short distance and then a left spur onto he start of the steep climb up the eastern flank of the Beinn. After the initial hard slog (and a welcome tea break), we tackled the boulder field onto the east summit, which is marked by a large cairn with shelter. Drifting dark cloud hid the views again here so we continued onto the long ridge, which stretches out for a further 2km to the main summit. This is a varied interesting ridge walk with a bit of scrambling to be done, rough under foot in places and a short scramble descent before a final big pull up onto the summit cairn.
Luckily on the ridge walk, the cloud was now burning off rapidly and drifting away opening up a wonderful vista of the surrounding country. We were now able to see Loch Clair to the east, Loch Torridon to the west while Beinn Liath Bheag, Sgorr Ruadh and Fuar Tholl encircled us. The two small lochs that make up Lochan Vaine were sparkling deep blue in the sun. After drinking in the views, the drinking of the tea took place again, a magnificent picnic spot.
Don, our route adviser for the day took us on an " interesting" route off the Beinn at Coire Grandda, on a pathless traverse down grassy slopes to the path. (It now being 2 weeks since the walk, I think we have all forgiven him for his choice!!) Safely back on the path and heading off to the left, we arrived back at the large cairn and right forked back to retrace our inward path back to the station. Typical, now down off the hill, not a cloud in the sky and clear summits!
Refreshments of tea/coffee and delicious home bakes were very much enjoyed in the lovely garden of Achnashellach Station House tearoom where a warm welcome from Hilary and Dave always greets you. We arrived home at 6.30pm, content, sun tanned and a few pounds heavier...
