Due to the inspiring Saturday weather forecast of 80mph winds, persistent rain and
chance of cloud-free Munros only 6 participants decided to make their way to Blackrock Cottage on Friday night. The hut belonging to the Ladies Scottish Climbing Club bravely withstood the strong and howling winds, even though some of the wall panels were literally moving.

On Saturday, only Chris Wo was braving the elements and climbed Beinn a’Chrulaiste and walked all the way to Kinlochleven where he met up with Keith, Duncan, Ben, Claire and myself who spent the day climbing at the Ice Factor.

Saturday evening saw the arrival of the remaining 4 EMC members, which was celebrated with a sausage and marshmallow sizzle over the coal fire in the hut.
On Sunday morning all wind had died down, but ice rain had covered cars and roads. Claire demonstrated her unhuman strength by tearing off a door handle of her car. Blackrock Cottage was surrounded by tripod men taking photos of the picturesque hut with Buachaille Etive Mor in the background, spoiled by us entering and exiting the hut as we prepared for departure.

Rebecca went off on a solo adventure on Binnein Beag, her last Munro it this area.
Chris Wo, Claire and myself summited Beinn Fhionnlaidh. An attempted link-up with Sgor na h-Ulaidh unfortunately didn’t work out, as the steep north-east ridge (“interesting in summer” according to the guide book) turned properly vertical about 100m before reaching the bealach, forcing us to turn around.

Tim, Ben, Keith, Duncan, Ned and Clare had a stunning day climbing with rope, ice axe and crampon action on Sron na Lairig and also summited Stob Coire Sgreamhach.

Martha