Grampian Club Hut; Inbhirfhaolain, Glen Etive

15-17 October 1999

Present:

Both nights: Gordon C, Jo L, Martha W, Rob W

Saturday night only: Robin B, Valerie C, Mark L

Friday

After a dull week, Jo with Rob and Martha set off early to the cottage tonight with the intention of arriving early, to get a roaring log fire going and to just relax with a chilled glass of wine. That had been the intention. And may well have been pulled off if the key hadn't inadvertently been left on the forecourt at the Green Welly. Whether this was to test the honesty and integrity of the locals (as if we need to), or to determine the durability of the hut key to 1 tonne loads (as if we care) shall not be discussed here! - but, best laid plans and all that!?! The stags were out in full voice, pretty eerie as their 'roars' echo through the valley!

Saturday

Valerie and Mark, although having danced Friday night away at H's 40th birthday ceilidh bash, still had the energy to climb a couple of routes on Buachaille Etive Mor, namely Curved Ridge and East Crowberry Tower (with Robin) before summitting the hill (in the cloud, doh!). Rob, Martha and Jo, who'd enjoyed great views up and down Stob Coir' an Albannaich and Meall nan Eun at the southern end of Glen Etive, were also plagued by cloud on the summits and along the connecting ridge. Gordon set off to do his own thing after arriving late last night from Manchester.

Sunday

A glorious morning with a wonderful light shining through the trees reflecting on the river which runs along the back of the hut. Perfection would have been the delivery of a Sunday newspaper in order to make the most of the very thoughtfully placed dry stone walling armchair by the river!!! The trio in the yellow peril (Robin, Valerie and Mark) bombed up Beinn Trilleachan whilst the rest of us headed more sedately back to Edinburgh.

JL