by Keith
Six hills in the great wilderness country of Fisherfield and Letterewe was too much to miss, so a very “select group” (Pam and Keith) set off from Edinburgh in a hire van- the car hire company had run out of cars! We had decided to avoid Shenavall Bothy because of its reputation as being very busy and camp 3K upriver where access to the hills was by an easier river crossing. The area was nice flat grass near a stalkers cottage and some ruins (?sheilings). A small dram, and then off to sleep.
Much debate was had on the best way to cross the substantial rivers- one at the start of the day, the other two near the end of the walk. Pam opted for wet boots, Keith for carrying lightweight “crocs” and drying his feet.
Unfortunately the long drive up and walk in precluded an early start so we set off at 10.30am. Despite the late start we were still able to cook an evening meal in daylight!! The route details are below - suffice to say; we packed plenty of water, food and a headtorch (just in case - for the 1hour it actually gets dark! - PK).
Having waded the river near our tents, we set off straight uphill and managed the first four hills with relative ease. Normally this would have been the end of a long day with a walk out to a nice hot shower (but couldn’t fit it in the rucksack- PK). However, two more hills were calling - and it avoided that long walk back in on Sunday. A brief discussion as we crossed the boggy area between the two groups of hills - go for it! By now we had company – two who had two who intended bivvying up high and a third who was pressing on at speed.
The final hill gave interesting views into the set(ting) sun - and we started the long walk out, eventually finding a path. Progress was now slow, at times we felt like stopping to sleep in the heather! We weren’t alone- unseen animals (?deer) were making strange noises nearby.
Headtorches now came in useful as we hunted for a crossing point over the river – although I’m sure Pam’s torch should come with a Class II laser warning labeI. (I needed it!! – PK). A final long tussocky bog trot and back to the tents over the river we had crossed in the (previous day’s) morning. With the sun now shining bright, we had a much simplified meal with celebratory small dram.
Up late on Sunday, feeling “jet–lagged”, Pam recommended a short walk up the glen to re-orientate body clocks and back for a damp evening’s cooking. Monday was not wasted - the interesting local hill of Carn Nam Faithearn (554m) was climbed up through ancient trees and long grass.
Fish and chips in Aviemore rounded off a good weekend. Just remember to pack a headtorch if out walking with Keith and Pam!
Walk Facts and Figures: