Morrone: Blustery breeze and drifting snow

Having so much enjoyed being out on Hogmanay we decided to have another bash today, initially thinking Balmoral Cairns. Alarm’s set, we got up and out at a reasonable time and contemplated our destination as we drove out the road. Par for the course, I was just happy to be out and not too bothered … Continue reading Morrone: Blustery breeze and drifting snow

Conachcraig: A Very Relaxed Hill Day

Those who know me will know our hill days have been getting shorter over time due to a deterioration In musculoskeletal health (his, not mine). It was therefore a bittersweet day as we set out for either Lochnagar or Conachcraig, settling for the latter as the pain was too much. However, the bionic man is … Continue reading Conachcraig: A Very Relaxed Hill Day

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

Carn Liath & Carn na Moine from Inverey

Having had a taste of the great outdoors a few days ago we were keen to get out again. Somewhat constrained for time at present, we needed to find a shorter walk, and as usual, Bruce came up trumps! Inverey: unusually quiet! With access to a couple of munros, the large parking area at Inverey … Continue reading Carn Liath & Carn na Moine from Inverey

Final Walk of 2021: Pannanich Hill

Having hoped to be out lots over the festive season, unfortunately we’ve not really managed. The weather’s been changeable and the prospect of fog on the tops has not held much appeal. We were happy to have a clear day on offer today, although the blustery conditions higher up led ‘us’ to make plans for … Continue reading Final Walk of 2021: Pannanich Hill

Creag nan Gabhar: in the summer?!

One of our regular winter walks, except this year due to being locked down in Aberdeen, it’s been a while since we were last here; more often than not it’s been in the snow. Driving out it was very still, the windsock at the glider field hanging vertical to the pole, and the temperature looked … Continue reading Creag nan Gabhar: in the summer?!

Wall to Wall Sunshine on the East Glenshee Munros

Now that I’m home, I’m so glad I didn’t go with my gut and turn off the alarm this morning! It was relatively late compared with the times I’ve been running this week but it was a thought, probably as I have had so many early starts. We made it out of the house around … Continue reading Wall to Wall Sunshine on the East Glenshee Munros

Ballater Weekend featuring Hillgoers Winter Skills Training

Lazy Saturday in Ballater The ideal Christmas gift, a Winter Skills Day with Hillgoers, led us to Ballater at the weekend. Not being ones for doing nothing, we enjoyed a gentle stroll around the Seven Bridges, my favourite being Polhollick. Polhollick Suspension Bridge, Ballater Aside from this the walk was gentle and easy, a fine … Continue reading Ballater Weekend featuring Hillgoers Winter Skills Training

Sgor Mor: Blowin’ A Hoolie

Taking advantage of a decent forecast we decided to head for the hills. Driving out to Braemar the skies looked clearer than expected. Despite being winter there also appeared to be very little snow on the horizon. After a quick pitstop in Braemar conditions did change as we drove out to Linn of Dee, the … Continue reading Sgor Mor: Blowin’ A Hoolie