Due to a very mixed weather forecast as we left Edinburgh we did not really have an idea about what we were going to do the next day, other than something in the north west of Scotland. On the drive up, we decided to head all the way up to Lochinver with the aim of climbing Suilven the next day.
As the weather was best in the morning we had to set a very early alarm, which was not appreciated after the late drive. In the morning the weather looked beautiful, and there was even some unexpected sun. Unfortunately, as I was looking outside the van window in the morning I could also see a swarm of midges, which took delight in eating me as I sorted the bikes out.
We attempted to save some time by cycling along the track, but we ended up dumping them fairly early as the track was hard going and we didn’t think they were helping much. Unfortunately the track soon improved and we were regretting our decision!
The climb up to Suilven is very steep, but thanks to the new path was over fairly quickly and with feet which were still dry! The views from the first col were spectacular.
Due to the poor forecast we headed to the more technical but lower peak first, and enjoyed some easy scrambling on the way there. It was very straightforward apart from the final step up the summit, which was easy but very exposed.
After having some lunch at the col, we made our way up to the main summit, with yet more spectacular views. Due to the impending rain we did not hang around on the summit, but instead made hasty retreat back to the van. On the way back we did get a little bit damp, but thankfully we just got back to the van before the worst of rain hit.
