My Ramblings

In Brief

Footprints Across Scotland

Why not make a few of your own!

14th and 15th April 2007

It felt a bit like the lazy, hazy days of summer this weekend. Made the relatively short journey to Auchavan at the top of Glen Isla North West of Kirriemuir (about 80miles). It was a bit foggy leaving Aberdeen early Saturday as the Harr had rolled in of the sea and was blocking out the sunshine. It was only after heading inland past Kirriemuir that we escaped into the hazy daylight. There are a couple of flat grassy areas just of the track at the top of Glen Isla suitable for parking and later to pitch the tent. Myself and Stephan headed of up over Monamenach to the Munros Creag Leacach and the Glas Maol. I have been up these two Munros before but previously from the Glen Shee side. Dropping down of Monamenach we spotted a large group of deer, they must have numbered nearly two hundred. It was quite a sight as they ran off down the glen. We also spotted a couple of pairs of Ptarmigan on the top of Creag Leacach. They blended in well with the surrounding rocks but the males gave the game away with thier amorous calling. They didn't take flight as I tried to photograph, but just kept enough distance to probably feel secure and just too far to get a good close up. There was still a little snow on the northern slopes but I shouldn't think it will be long before it all disappears with the present temperatures. The views into the corries on the return route were good despite the hazy weather and lack of green vegetation. Some of the views had more a look of dried out savannah than Scottish countryside. The last of the few cars that were parked at the roadside were just leaving as we ended the walk leaving plenty of room for our tents. A nearby stream provided washing facilities and despite it being April the water didn't feel to cold while freshening up. After setting up camp and enjoying our evening meal we finished the wine while watching the stars appear, a nice end to the day.

Creag Leacach

Got up about 7.30 on Sunday and had a leisurely breakfast before heading off to the Backwater reservoir. We made a circular walk taking in Corwharn hill. Saw plenty of Buzzards and Kestrels on the walk and also spotted a couple of Lizards. It was only recently I realised we had them here in Scotland. I had spotted one about three years ago on Cul Mor in Sutherland and at first thought it was a newt until I did some checking later. There were loads of lambs about as well and some sheep with rather fetching pink hairdos. The walk back took us across open moor land and then through some nice pine woods, a nice pleasant day. The reservoir was looking inviting for a swim on our return to the car but we managed to resist.

Pink Rinse

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