East meets west

For some inexplicable reason, the Fannichs were among the last of the Scottish hills that I came to know. Undoubtedly I passed by on too many occasions, fixed on the hills of Assynt or Sutherland, only occasionally pausing to consider the ridge which lies almost hidden from all aspects except the north.

I approached first via Loch a’ Bhraoin, and taking a steep line on the northern flank of Sgùrr Breac.

It would have made a fine winter route, following a ramp cutting obliquely across the face to emerge directly beneath the summit, but under a fierce June sun it was nothing more than thirsty work and I took in A’ Chailleach to the west before returning and dropping to the col that divides the eastern and western Fannichs.

On Sgùrr nan Each the clag descended temporarily, giving short lived relief from the heat, An Teallach briefly framed within the shifting mist…

…until the sun burned through once again approaching the summit of Sgùrr Mòr. It is one of the most shapely summits in the Highlands, rivalling even Knoydart’s Sgùrr na Ciche in conical symetry, and I stayed awhile, staring over the vast space Beinn Dearg to one side and Torridon to the other.

Returning via Meall a’ Chrasgaidh, swimming in the river below, I had already resolved to return, intent on running over those summits that remained, joining all in one long day from east to west.