Sgurr a Mhadaidh & Sgurr a Ghreadaidh

Our second day on Skye saw us enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the lodge, with a nice drive round into Glen Brittle to meet Iain Mackay, our guide for the ridge. While in theory three Munros were planned today, I would be happy to do the two and I figured that would also suit Ayman. The weather was fine and without the midge, we waited for Iain to arrive at the car park. It was a fine place to rest and take in the Cuillins. Once Iain arrived, we had a chat about the theory and the practicality of what lay ahead. As we walked up the path, he pointed out An Dorus (the door) and discussed what the climb would entail. I could sense that Ayman was a bit apprehensive but Iain also was good at distraction by pointing out the fauna on the ground - blaeberries, bog myrtle, and some plant known to give off certain qualities for men who could not be turned on by the views before them. 

The cascading waterfalls were lovely and it was such a pleasure to be out walking in this environment. We eventually stopped on a grassy ledge to the side of the scree coming down from An Dorus and it was here, we adorned harness and helmet. Now, having walked upwards on scree many times, I was comfortable but as we climbed, I could see Ayman was struggling a little and breathing hard. I knew he was fit so suspected he was a bit stressed by the environment. Sgurr Thuilm sweeped away to our left and with the cliffs of Mhadaidh and Ghreadaidh immediately looming above us, it was understandable. As we made our way on to the final climb to Mhadaidh, Ayman was concerned at what was above us. We sat down and relaxed (well I did) before deciding to push on. About 15 minutes after some decent paths and climbs, we arrived at the summit cairn of Sgurr a Mhadaidh - what a place!

The view across the Sgurr a Ghreadaigh was stunning and Sgurr Mhic Choinnich and Sgurr Alasdair added a nice touch to the view behind. The Wart was impressive, just sitting off the main ridge to our 2nd objective.

Once we descended back to a safe place, Ayman had decided he was happy with his lot and would stay wrapped up just down and to the North of An Dorus. We came across a young lady and her guide who had been on the ridge since 0200 - she was going for the full traverse and still had a smile on her face. One could not fail to be impressed by her endeavour and energy. A superb effort. We left Ayman and said we'd be about 45 minutes so to rest up. Iain and I climbed to An Dorus and it was an enjoyable wee climb out of that and on Ghreadaidh. From here, it was relatively easy ground especially as it was dry and walking on the gabbro was a joy. The Eag Dubh was a fine slash in the rock with a super view. As we climbed past the Wart, we strode on to what i thought was the summit in the distance - Iain said I'd walked past the cairn! I was looking at the South Summit. Conscious of Ayman back at his resting spot, we returned quickly down the ridge and re-joined him for the walk out. He had enjoyed his time at the spot, relaxing and enjoying the moment. And I was elated at grabbing these two fantastic peaks with only Banachdich left to do on Skye.

The walk back to the car was very relaxing once off the scree and we had a fine chat discussing all things Skye and Scotland. It had been a great couple of days on this island - there really is nowhere like Skye. What it takes from you in skin and bruises, it more than gives back in memories.