Carn Liath: First Walk of 2025

Having kept a watchful eye on the weather forecast, Bruce decreed on Thursday morning that Friday looked the most promising day for the hills. The rucksacks were therefore packed with winter kit, prepped and ready to go for the morning. With some snow having fallen overnight the road from home was a little sketchy, nothing … Continue reading Carn Liath: First Walk of 2025

My Legs Are Seeking A Divorce!

I woke up feeling pretty fresh, something of a surprise given the efforts of the last couple of days. In contrast to previous days it was really quite windy, rather than a light breeze, and checking the forecast for the hills it appeared that the wind would be strong with mist on the tops and … Continue reading My Legs Are Seeking A Divorce!

Morrone: Another ‘First’

It was a driech start to the day. Waking up to wet ground and dull skies, I opted to have a lie in starting my day later than usual with breakfast in The Bothy. I opted for a rather decadent porridge with cream and maple syrup. I then had a browse in Braemar Mountain Sports, … Continue reading Morrone: Another ‘First’

Derry Cairngorm: My 1st Solo Munro

With another beautiful day there was no option other than head for the hills. I set off with the intention of picking up a sandwich on route, only to discover that the delivery had not yet arrived at the local shop. This caused a short delay as I instead bought buns, cheese and ham, popping … Continue reading Derry Cairngorm: My 1st Solo Munro

Clais Fhearnaig Circuit: Beautiful Day in Braemar

Summer is definitely here with sunshine again! A bit breezier than last week when we were in the west, but that’s welcome when the sun is beating down. Yesterday saw me ‘running’ the Clais Fhearnaig circuit, a wee gem from Walkhighlands. The intention was to run but heat, some of the terrain and the stunning … Continue reading Clais Fhearnaig Circuit: Beautiful Day in Braemar

Around Craig Leek: Recovery Run

Having finished our long walk last week I followed up with Aberdeen parkrun on Saturday. Ignoring my watch and running by feel I didn’t feel too bad, although the finishing time was slower than I’d usually expect for the perceived effort. That aside, it had been the best part of three weeks since I’d last … Continue reading Around Craig Leek: Recovery Run

Sgòr Mòr, showcasing the Cairngorms

With the winds gone and the Sunday golf finished for the season, I was willing to forgo my usual social Sunday run in favour of a hill day. That said, neither of us were filled with enthusiasm as we drove out the road, in two minds as to whether we stop in Tarland for Pressendye … Continue reading Sgòr Mòr, showcasing the Cairngorms

Winter’s Here: Creag nan Gabhar

With a perfect looking forecast earlier in the week, for the hills anyway, the decision had been made to head out in favour of running and golfing; Bruce was quietly confident that the winter eclectic would not be going ahead due to the cold snap we’ve had, while I was happy to get out anywhere! … Continue reading Winter’s Here: Creag nan Gabhar

Creag nan Gabhar – first time this year

One of our favourites, today saw us return to Creag nan Gabhar. We were unsure what to expect as the snow appeared to have shifted quite a bit. Mildly optimistic that we might find some on the descent towards Loch Callater, we set off fully loaded with crampons, ice axe and Kahtoolas! Looking back, you’d … Continue reading Creag nan Gabhar – first time this year

A Stunning Winter’s Day on Morrone

Having initially thought it would be a day for Aberdeen parkrun, I was easily swayed when advised that there was not a breath of wind on the hills. Having checked the forecast last night it was apparent that Lochnagar, a winter favourite, was not the best idea due to the direction we’d be heading up. … Continue reading A Stunning Winter’s Day on Morrone