Newtonmore, 23rd March 2013

We set off around 9:30am from Newtonmore with the aim of bagging A' Chailleach (Monadh Liath). A fairly easy walk ensued which didn't feature the conditions warned of by MWIS (initially).

High winds on the summit of A' Chailleach (Brett Gregory)

We came across an interesting bothy / tin hut where we stopped for a lunch break. The wall was covered with writing - some with 1920s dates on.

The tin stalkers' hut (BG)

Inside the bothy (BG)

Some of the writing on the wall (BG)

As with all premises of this type, there a few basic rules to be aware of...

"It is not permitted for beggars, vagrants, itinerant musicians, women of doubtful reputation or anyone without visible means of support to enter these premises or loiter in the vicinity thereof. Any such person or persons found to be in contravention of this order will be prosecuted with the full rigour of the law.

In addition, all legitimate users of this bothy must ensure that the stove is out, the door is closed and that all sheep shite is swept from the floor. Remember, "if you see it, you own it".

In the event of a fire, alert all other residents, evacuate the building and gather at the assembly point (that big boulder five yards from the door).

These are no smoking premises. Anyone observing a breach of this resolution should report the incident immediately to the relevant authority. No alcoholic beverages must be consumed on the premises. Singing, dancing and inappropriate relationships between the sexes are also prohibited.

A copy of the New Testament is provided for your enlightenment and may be found on the top right hand corner of the shelf, that you may read the word of the Lord. Though if you're depending on him for help, you're probably in more trouble than you think. By order M.B.A"

The rules (BG)

We set off towards the summit - 1 or 2 layers down. We were soon scrambling to re-apply these when the wind came. As forecast, the gusts were around 80mph. It was a struggle to stand near the summit.

Heading up A' Chailleach (Michael Graenitz)

Worsening conditions (MG)

Summit cairn of A' Chailleach (BG)

View from the summit (BG)

After a short time at the cairn, we made our way down - walking into the wind (but bum-sliding where possible). A nice day out - will be remembered for lunch in the curious hut and the crazy winds on approach to the summit.

Monadh Liath range from near Newtonmore (MG)

Report: Brett Gregory. Photos: Brett Gregory (BG), Michael Graenitz (MG)