Mullardoch Munros; A’Ghlas Bheinn and Ben Rinnes - 14 September 2025
Mullardoch Munros
We set off early from Inverness, leaving at 6.30 am and reaching the Torvin Car Park at around 7.30 am. Conditions looked promising – sunny skies, light breeze, and temperatures around 16–18°C.
The first stretch brought us some of the best views of the day as we gained height towards the first Munro. Spirits were high and the ridge ahead looked inviting. However, the forecasted weather soon caught up with us. By the time we reached the higher ground, the wind had picked up significantly – easily 60 km/h gusts, maybe more, making progress slow and occasionally unnerving.
The ridge itself offered a mix of clear views and moments when we were completely engulfed by cloud. It took us about 17 km to cover the four Munros, leaving a long descent of around 13 km still ahead.
Then came the real challenge: driving rain and relentless wind for nearly four hours. We were soaked through, and the wet ground made underfoot conditions treacherous. Despite this, the group kept steady progress, sharing jokes to lighten the mood while battling the elements.
As daylight faded, we still had a long way to go. The last three hours were done in complete darkness, with headtorches guiding us across boggy ground. The final major obstacle was a fast-flowing river crossing. After some searching, we found one calmer spot – but even then it required going in up to the knees. Cold, tired, but determined, we managed it safely.
At last, around 11.00 pm, we stumbled back into the car park – wet, battered, but with that unmistakable sense of achievement only a truly tough day in the hills can give.
Statistics: Distance: 32.5 km; Ascent: 2,839 m; Moving Time: 10h 34m; Total Time Out: ~15.5 hrs
A real epic outing in Mullardoch – one that won’t be forgotten soon!
Adventurers: Lucasz, Sharan, Graham
Words & Photos: Lucasz
A’Ghlas Bheinn
The meet started at the National Trust for Scotland Centre in Morvich, the car park was busy, so some creative parking was required, car sharing made this possible. The forecast was good till 4 when rain was promised. May, Jan, Liz, Chris and Martyn; prospective members Duncan and Kessia along with guest Dawn set off up the glen to Bealach an Sgairne along a foot path which if continued would take you into Glen Affric. Some chat about the map and other navigation issues was had. A sharp left turn at the Bealach led to the summit of the Grey Mountain (A’ Ghlas bhienn).
Lunch was taken after finding a sheltered spot from the cold wind and after much discussion a route down was selected via A’ Mhic and through Dorusduain Wood to the start. The team made it back and were driving home before the rain appeared more or less on time.
Taking part: May, Jan, Liz, Chris, Martyn; with prospective members Duncan and Kessia; and guest Dawn
Words: Martyn; Photos: Liz and May
Ben Rinnes
It was a lovely clear sunny day when six of us set off to climb the Corbett Ben Rinnes. We discussed the possibility of some of the group doing the traverse but then decided we would all go up and back down the main path. We made very good progress on the ascent and were rewarded by great views from the top, where we had a leisurely lunch in a sheltered spot as the breeze was picking up.
The trig point had been recently restored with a stainless steel casing fitted over the top of it. A circle of granite was inscribed around the edges, with a brass plate on top which showed surrounding distilleries, but not many hills, so unfortunately it wasn't very helpful in our discussions about which hills we could see in the distance!
It clouded over a bit as we walked back down and didn't take us long to get back to the cars. We were in good time so went on to the Cosy Coo cafe in Dufftown for a cuppa and sampled their extensive cake selection. I think we all felt that it had been a lovely walk in the sunshine with good company.
Taking part: Catherine, Ewen, Gina, Hazel, Helen, Michael.
Words and Photo: Helen