Ben More (Mull)
A Final Munro Double
At long last after all the talk here we were ready for another party weekend. Yes John MacDonald and Charlie Daily were to finally finish the Munros'. Ben More on Mull was the target and lots of Malts, Drambuie and Champagne had been packed. As we left Dundee the skies opened and the rain began to fall, which put a bit of a damper on our high spirits. On arrival at Oban ferry terminal we also found out that this was the Tour of Mull Car Rally weekend and all the ferries on Sunday were fully booked. We could get over to the island but we might get stranded until Monday at least. There was a chance however of catching the Fishnish - Lochaline ferry and this prompted us to board the ferry that night. After a few pints and some debate we alighted the ferry at Craignure and camped at the local campsite (Highly Recommended) which was quiet despite the Rally taking place. Soon we were enjoying the local pubs, supping pints and enjoying some fine banter. Back at camp we enjoyed a few nips which ensured an excellent nights coma.
8-00 am and we were up like larks with sore heads, however last nights rain had cleared and Heather the Weather proved tops again. A leisurely drive round the island found us at the base of the mountain, despite the time of year the mildness of the day allowed some of the gang to wear shorts.
Team photo as we prepare for the big day.
We elected to climb the mountain via the A'chioch ridge and this found us following a boggy path beside the river, the view out across Loch Na Keal however more than made up for the mud. Higher up we reached a wide col from where we enjoyed a bite to eat, whilst enjoying the sight of Mull's smaller more neglected summits. Above us a steep, rocky and ever narrowing ridge led us up to the fine summit of A'Chioch.
Looking from A'Chioch towards Ben More
John and Charlie's goal was now in sight and we descended down the ridge towards Ben More. This excellent ridge that leads to the summit of Mull's highest mountain is well worth the extra effort, as the ascent up the other side of the mountain is dull in comparison. A narrow path can be followed for most of the ridge but it is much more sporting to follow the crest (Give the mountain a chance as they say !!). Any difficulties on the crest are short and avoidable but some fine situations can be enjoyed, all to soon the Munro summit draws nearer but this final steep part is where the best bits of scrambling can be enjoyed. Out came the Saltire and Rampant Lion flags to add a bit of colour to the celebrations, Gary our club piper could not attend this weekend as he was awaiting to become a Dad for the second time (More celebrations).