Ben Nevis Trip

Due to the poor weather on the hill we set off early at 7am this meant an early start in order to miss the worst of the weather. With head torches switched on we set off into the darkness. Following which we were met with great views over the Glen. At 9.30am we reached half way lochain and stopped for a break. Continuing on we headed for the summit and in usual fashion as we approached 900m the clouds descended on us. On the approach to the summit the wind started picking up and visibility dropped. We stopped in the ruins of the observatory for a well earned lunch just before mid-day, after about 40 minutes on the summit we started back down as the clouds started lifting over us, sadly however they did not lift over the other peaks leaving a half view from the summit. On our descent the clouds continued to hang around but eventually began to clear leaving stunning views if you were quick with the camera. Reaching the zig-zags in the path we were held up by guided groups who would not let us past, however this gave us a chance to gather our energy a bit more. When reaching half way lochain, the wind increased as forecast, the low pressure well on its way in, making us glad we were on schedule. Reaching the bunkhouse at 3pm, we just missed the rain by a matter of seconds (as soon as we stepped food in the bunkhouse it started raining). Following the walk we went to Morrisons to buy a meal for the night (cooking and eating together). After our home-made Indian we made use of a pack of playing cards for the majority of the night. Sunday morning we cooked breakfast (a healthy selection of bacon, sausages (meat and vegetarian), eggs and toast) together before rushing to pack everything away before we had to go. After this we went for a wander in Fort Williams many many outdoors shops. After browsing through Cotswalds (where MCofS members get 15% discount) we returned to the van. On the return journey we stopped at a small car park in Glen Coe which had great views of Aonach Eagach and Stob Coire nan Lochan. Final stop before University was the unique Drovers Inn where we all enjoyed a delicious meal. Reaching campus we returned the van and put the gear back in the store before saying our good byes after a trip that everyone thoroughly enjoyed.