From Tarf to Beinn Dearg

Having had little sleep, copious Highland Park and a good breakfast, we cleared out of the Tarf hotel at 0900. Initially, we weren't sure what we all wanted to do. I should have insisted that Janet and I head out along the glen as it had been a tough day the day before but the lure of a Corbett or a Munro tempted me on with the rest of the group. We walked a good bit along the Tarf river and with Graeme deciding (wisely) on the Corbett, the rest of us pushed on up to Beinn Dearg. It was going to be a long day. It was bitterly cold but would only get more petrifying. The ascent was slow and eventually the going got easier as we hit the snow line. Views back across to An Sgarsoch and Carn an Fhidleir were excellent and as we got on to the plateau before the summit, we could see as far as Braeriach. John B was a godsend through this day, all encouraging us with his pleasant demeanour and bonhomie. We eventually summited on Beinn Dearg - the wind from the North was about 25-30 mph and it really dropped the temperature. Again, we didn't hang about and we made off for the land rover track out. A good 5-6 mile walk ensued with heavy feet, tired muscles and we were walking on fumes. It was headtorch time once again as we walked down to Old Blair. John opted to get the car while we looked after the packs and that man came and picked us up. It had been a long, long two days but deep down it had been a worthwhile experience. Cheers to John Burgess for his encouragement. I was just glad to be warm and eating anything that wasn't dessicated.