Over the last few days I’ve been joined in Scotland by returning client Darren. Darren is fairly new to hillwalking but he is building up a considerable number of quality days in a very short time and is one of the most enthuistic hill goers I’ve ever had the chance to work with. Luckily, the last couple of days have shown him some of the best winter conditions and weather Scotland has enjoyed in ages.

Yesterday we headed up to Bidean Nam Bian via Coire Nan Lochan and Georr Aonach in beautiful sunshine and brilliant winter conditions. Despite only trying them briefly last year Darren took to using an ice axe and crampons in no time and we covered some key skills as we travelled. The skies stayed blue all day and we had amazing views across to Skye as well as the northern and southern ranges (I’ll post some photos ASAP). We completed the loop by dropping into the Lost Valley (which has a special place in Glencoe history).

From the top of Lochain Darren had spent some time talking about the Aonach Eagach Ridge and what a fine winter challenge it presents so today we left a car at the top of Glencoe and a car at the bottom and made an early start on what is one of the very finest Scottish ridges. Darren’s confidence grew with each tricky step and narrow ridge traverse and we completed the ridge in time for a celebratory beer in the Clachaig. Another day of great company and the most amazing weather - just what the mountains are all about.