Central Fannichs, Sgurr a’ Mhaoraich & Creag Bheag – 1 Nov 2026
Meall a’ Chrasgaidh (Hill of the crossing), Sgurr Mor (Big peak), Beinn Liath Mhor Fannaich (Big grey hill of the Fannaich)
A high pressure weather feature had settled over the country promising a good day in the hills. With this in mind, May, Agnes, Gill, Stela, Kieran and Martyn met at the carpark at Lochdrum on the road to Ullapool (A835) and set off to climb these Munros, part of the Eastern Fannaichs.
Initially the path was good, then as the team progressed the ground become a lot wetter. Eventually the climb progressed up to Loch a’Mhadaidh and the ground became drier. On reaching the bealach first lunch was taken and then Meall a’ Chrasgaidh was tackled. The weather, despite the high pressure was mixed, some showers, passing low cloud and a cold wind made it quite atmospheric.
Next came Carn na Criche, a Munro Top, on the way we saw fleeting Brocken Spectre as cloud beneath us came and went. Then on to the highest peak Sgurr Mor where second lunch was had. A brief discussion was had on what we would do if all went wrong. Some items of kit were discussed.
The descent to the start of the climb up Beinn Liath Mhor Fanniach was pleasant, following a good dry path. The ascent whilst it had an easy start on a stalkers path became a slippery route through boulders.
From the top of the final Munro the descent posed some choices, either Coire Gorm with possible bog or stay higher and risk a steep descent. After some prevarication the steep descent was taken. Some Ptarmigan in white winter plumage were seen, but no snow for them. Greasy boulders and later some bog made the route less than the team were hoping. However, the track back to the start was gained and a quick pace led to the start.
Words: Martyn. Pictures: Kieran.
Creag Bheag
A compact team of six climbed the mighty Creag Bheag (487m) above Kingussie. Catherine P, Marion, Rosemary, Bob, Michael and Ewen enjoyed a wonderful day on the well constructed and waymarked tracks south of the village. Great views over Strathspey and the Cairngorms, and Loch Gynack on the way down.
Photos: Michael and Bob. Words: Ewen
Sgurr a Mhaoriach
The third route took on Sgurr a Mhaoiraich from the shores of Loch Cuaich. Beautiful autumn colours made for a pleasant drive, and sunshine accompanied the start to a stalkers path up Bac nan Canaichean with views into Knoydart. Discussion centred around a new hills list – the High Hills of Britain (HHBs) – that are over 838m on the mainland with a prominence. This means many of the Corbett-height tops of Munros are included, such as Am Bathaich and Sgurr Thionail, a rarely frequented summit to the North of Sgurr a Mhaoraich. Two ridge points on the ascent were also HHBs, which Hugh and Lukasz deviated to take in. A cool breeze and a touch of rain prompted the donning of water and windproof layers, before deviating around the rocky buttresses.
Visual tabs were kept on Lukasz and Hugh, who arrived back at the cars only 5 minutes after the main group. It was a lovely introduction to the IMC for prospective members Charlotte and Phil and a grand day out, making the most of the shorter days, for everyone.
Taking part: Charlotte, Hugh, Jan, Lukasz, Martin, Phil.
Words and Photos: Martin
A cap of cloud obscured the best views on the summit, and also from Sgurr a’ Mhaoraich beag, sadly. Splitting in two, Hugh and Lukasz headed for Sgurr Thionail, while Martin, Jan, Charlotte and Phil took in the Munro top and then climbed steeply to a second lunch in a hollow of Am Bathaich. Winter sunshine highlighted the South Glen Shiel ridge throughout the descent of a boggy stalkers path, with an assumption that the surrounding ground was worse!
