Vrackie bealach on a stunning Winter's day

After watching the Banff mountain film festival yesterday it was our day to get out and enjoy Scotland’s great outdoors. Pitlochry was shrouded in mist this morning but being familiar with the town you don’t normally need to go too high to clear it and today was a case in point. As the good lady was with me today we opted for the Vrackie bealach circular, demanding enough for her, but should have great views if the blue skies came through.

Misty Pitlochry Kirk

After a tasty cooked breakfast it was time to work it off. We walked from the town and by the time we reached the Vrackie car park it was already the overspill park in use, a busy hill.

A straightforward, short, but pleasant woodland climb brings you to the moorland where the views begin to open out. Snow covered Ben Vrackie has been drifting in and out of view. The bright white snow contrasting with the autumn/winter coloured bracken and trees, just stunning. We had came out of the mist and pristine blue skies were now above.

Vrackie peaks out

Onto the moor to head for the junction of the bealach and also take in the views back to Pitlochry which was still shrouded in its blanket of mist.

Pitlochry & the Tummel still covered

Up here it was spring conditions, no need at this stage for hats and scarves. Indeed most other walkers we could see had jackets off as well but I knew when we soon crested the ridge it would be cold again.

Vrackie track

At the junction we decided to go anti clockwise so headed up the Ben Vrackie route. The snow and in particular ice was now prominent hence a bit of extra care needed. Vrackie was rising up and looked magnificent. Small dark figures could be seen both climbing and descending.

Frozen Loch a Choite

When we made the final turn around Stac an Fheidh the picturesque scene was stupendous. Loch a Choite was mainly frozen with occasional uniced patches of water, the sun was catching sections, surrounded by the snowy hills, quite beautiful. 

Vrackie was so tempting. In fairness the good lady did say I could go up but she could not do it and it was not fair to leave her behind. I have seen the view from the top twice but never in the snow, another day.

Into snow line again

We crossed the icy dam and headed north along its far bank, slushy, icy and boggy. Then we followed the path climbing to our highest point, 633 metres, Meall na-h Aodainn Moire, and then spent some time taking in the northern views. The Atholl glens prominent, particularly Glen Tilt, and the surrounding broad white hills just more great views.

Looks like smoke from a volcano

Now it was just a case of following the bealach back round to the junction and following the route back to Pitlochry. The fog was now burning off which also gave us nice views on the descent.

Follow the markers home

An excellent winter walk with magnificent views, just what the doctor ordered.
Time for a coffee and a large slice of carrot cake.

Time: 3.41
Ascent: 532m  
Distance: 11.88km