Sutherland Sands 2011

After oatmeal and bacon for breakfast, and starting to climb under menacing skies to the Bealach na-h-Uidhe, at over 2000 feet the highest point of the trip.

The view from the top is soon disturbed by descending clouds. Follows a long descent back to sea level, first over decent paths, but the last 600 feet without an path and more difficult, straight to the Abhainn a Ghlinne Bhig. The pathless trek along the burn is equally slow, but one is soon treated to a view of the Eas a Chuall Aluinn waterfall, the highest in the UK.

Further along the shores of Loch Beag, Glencoul is reached, a splendidly located settlement. The bothy is adjacent to a bigger house boarded up to protect it from the elements, this would make a splendid country lodge though. The bothy itself provides very nice accomodation, but due to its remoteness it seems very lightly used.

Glencoul remains a very special place however, well worth the trip. After enjoying the sunset I have some smoked haddock, and sit down for a dram (Clynelish, also from Sutherland). Walked eight miles today.