10 varied routes in Scotland, England and Wales
We’ve talked a lot in this issue about big mountain challenges and reaching your personal peak. But adventure is about more than summit-bagging. These mini-mountains pack a lot of punch –from natural magic to sweeping views and sunset spots. They may not be the longest walks, but they are sure to hold the attention of big groups, big kids and littler ones, should they be joining for the adventure.
Adventure is out there, no matter age or ability. You just have to know where to look.
Our walks this month
1 Stac Pollaidh North-West Highlands
2 Windy Gyle Northumberland
3 Rannerdale Knotts Lake District
4 Sheffield Pike Lake District
5 Place Fell Lake District
6 Beda Fell Lake District
7 Holyhead Mountain Anglesey
8 Pen yFan Bannau Brycheiniog/ Brecon Beacons
9 Sugar Loaf Black Mountains
10 Devil’s Punchbowl Surrey Hills
Stac Pollaidh North-West Highlands SCOTLAND
1 4.7km/2.9 miles/2.5 hours
Ascent 564m/1850ft
Ian Battersby uncovers the plus side to being petite
MANY WOULD NOT consider 1850ft worthy of mountain status, but what Stac Pollaidh lacks in height is more than reimbursed by its surge from the banks of Loch Lurgainn. In addition the challenge conjured by an array of craggy pinnacles along its cocked crown is enough to convert most cynics, especially those who don’t make the true summit.
There are advantages to smallness: the mountain is super-accessible, and the climb short. This makes it great for kids: tough enough to entertain, but short enough to maintain interest. The approach curls round the back, offering an ever-changing panorama to chase too. So, as little lungs and legs falter, novel distractions can overcome moments of defeat. Once near the top, stare down from the saddle to relish in how far you’ve come. Fancy an extra challenge? Start with some hand-onrock to the eastern summit. The direct scramble to the western summit is likely too much, but there is a walkers’ way dodging the more formidable pinnacles if they enjoy scree.
Scrambling fun follows towards the true top, and every triumph will bring bright beams to conquer little frowns.
ROUTE
Start/finish car park S of Stac Pollaidh by Loch Lurgainn GR: NC107095
1 NC107095 Cross the road opposite the car park and go through the deer fence gate amongst the trees and bushes. A g
