For the last two years this hill has had a weather jinx over me and today was no exception. Three times on the planned date the weather has been so foul that I didn't even leave the mainland, no fun walking in that stuff.
Today was different as I was already on the island, my final day of the Arran Mountain Festival. The plan was a group walk to the Graham category, Beinn Bharrain and continue to the Sub 2000 of Sail Chamadale.
After the blue skies of Friday today's forecast was for rain and strong winds gusting to 40mph.
It was just a drizzle when we left Brodick but heavier when we started the walk at Pirnmill, full waterproofs donned.
There was a lovely woodland walk before reaching the moorland. The conditions were so tough that one walker decided it was going to be too hard for her and another escorted her back down.
As we climbed higher the winds increased, the gusts were living up to the forecast. The rain was driving into us and everyone was well and truly soaked through despite the gear. Camera put away early to avoid damage so just a few phone snaps.
At the top the visibility was down to a few yards. The windchill factor had brought the temperature down to close on freezing. No fun so group discussion decision was to just head back down. The jinxed hill but at least I got to the top. The bad news is that I will need to climb it again to see the view from the top.
Despite the weather a good group, plenty of chat and gallows humour. At least I will get the early ferry.
Time: 3hr 46m
Distance: 5.12m
Ascent: 2258ft
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| Looking back from the first climb |
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| The group climbing the mid section |
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| The view ahead before we entered the clouds |
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| Still smiling despite the weather |
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| Snack Time |
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| Moorland to Beinn Bhreac |
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| Beinn Bharrain in foreground but summit cannot be seen |
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| Decision time for one of the walkers to abandon |
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| Nice gully |
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| Good flowing waterfall |
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