Stac Pollaidh

In a burst of enthusiasm this morning I announced to James that I would have a go at climbing the small but steep Stac Pollaidh on our way to Lochinver. First we said our goodbyes to our friends who would be remaining in Torridon, most of whom were planning to climb Ben Alligan. Steven and Hilary however had just received a phone call to tell them that their daughter had gone into labour with their second grandchild, so they were setting off home a day early.*

We arrived at Stac Pollaidh and it looked much bigger than I remembered. I was soon regretting my earlier optimism about the walk; I'm fitter than I used to be but steep hills always make me overheat. It was a lovely sunny and warm day so I overheated extra quickly and half way up I announced to James that I could go no further. However after some coffee and a Picnic Bar I gave it another try and soon we were on the saddle of the hill. The views were absolutely amazing - turquoise blue lochs, Suilven and lots of other mountains. I scrambled the last few feet to the east top and had a lie down in the sunshine. Walking down was steep but not a problem. 

We continued on to Lochinver and checked into the Albannach Hotel. Our room was gorgeous and after a jacuzzi bath I got ready for dinner, which was a delicious six course tasting menu; we enjoyed identifying all the combinations of flavours. Although each course was appropriately small it all added up to a very substantial meal, and we felt very full as we relaxed with coffee and petit fours in the lounge.

* Abigail Lily was indeed born later in the day!