An Epic Day in the Cairngorms: Munros Conquered and Fears Overcome!
What a Sunday we had in the Cairngorms! Our group of 19 set off bright and early on the bus to Auchallater, buzzing with anticipation for a day of spectacular Scottish scenery and challenging hikes.
Upon arrival, our crew split: 2 opted for a leisurely 7 Bridges Walk in Ballater, while the remaining 17 geared up for the main walk. And what a main walk it was! With perfect conditions gracing the hills, one of our main group headed towards the majestic Lochnagar.
The day was filled with incredible sights. We spotted plane wreckage at Carn an t-Sagairt Mor, a poignant reminder of the raw power of these mountains. Lunch was a picturesque affair, enjoyed with stunning views overlooking Dubh Loch.
Our ambition didn’t stop there. We pushed on, making our way to Cairn Bannoch, successfully bagging our second Munro of the day. The momentum carried us to our final Munro, Broad Cairn, where we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Loch Muick.
The descent began with a challenging traverse through a boulder field, followed by a well-deserved break at “Sandy’s” seat. We opted for the steadier path down the side of the hill, giving the infamous “streak of lightning” a miss this time around. The final stretch past Loch Muick felt like an endless journey, a truly brutal walk that tested our endurance.
But despite the arduous trek, everyone made it back to the bus safely, arriving in Aberdeen by 8 pm, tired but triumphant.
A very special shout-out must go to Sharon, who absolutely smashed it by completing her first three Munros all by herself! Knowing her fear of heights, her achievement on Sunday cannot be overstated. We are all incredibly proud of her determination and courage. Here’s hoping she’ll be adding many more Munros to her tally in the future!
What an unforgettable day of camaraderie, challenge, and incredible personal achievement in the Scottish Highlands! Have you ever pushed past a fear to achieve something great in the outdoors?
Paul