Letterewe is remote by any standard with either a long approach from Poolewe or Linlochewe …or more directly across Loch Maree ! My Flytepacker packraft made this a realistic option.
With overnight kit all loaded into dry bags, I pushed off into the loch from the south shore to take a fairly direct 1.67km route onto the opposite shore. Took a while to get the hang of keeping the raft moving straight and forward but after an hour I climbed out and pulled the raft up onto the gravel bank. The original plan had been to carry the raft over Beinn Airgh Charr and to make another crossing over Fionn Loch but I reckoned it was quicker to simply use the stalkers path / causeway round to Carnmore.
The views north into the Fisherfield were as impressive as the reverse option. Happy to have the first summit under my belt, I enjoyed a run down to pick up the stalkers path and round the head of the loch. Nipped into the Carnmore barn for a bite to eat and left overnight gear so I could ascent the second Corbett of the day Beinn a Chaisgein Mor lightweight. From the summit, Poolewe looked a very long way away indeed. Again, I ran back down to the bothy arriving at the door just before 6pm.
Since it was only early evening and with the barn not looking all that comfy, I opted to continue over Beinn Lair and find a bivvy spot. Kinda weird being in such a remote location on my own …and yet feeling perfectly happy. Sitting around the summit it was satisfying to look over the days route before dropping off to the north and out of the wind. Tea and something to eat with my back against a rock and some tunes on the iPod.
Next morning was an early rise before a return to the packraft and back across the loch. Finished off the trip with ascents of Meall a Ghiuthais & Ruadh Stac Beag.
Absolutely brilliant! Love it!
ReplyDeleteCheers Al ...got a few more ideas for trips of this style in the head.
ReplyDeleteNice thing about solo, you get to make all the decisions which gives as much flexibilty as an imagination needs !