Schiehallion

Today we took up our Christmas gift from B & S, a Mountain Safari from Dull. After a few days of drizzle the weather dawned clear, bright and cold, perfect for the event. 

We drove up to Aberfeldy in time for coffee and a wander round the town then a light lunch before meeting Cameron, our guide and chauffeur and the other two couples for a pre-drive briefing about the area.

Once aboard the Land Rover Defender we drove westwards almost as far as Foss, before cutting up into the hills, passing the Foss Baryte quarry. All along Cameron regaled us with information about everything from wars with the English, clan loyalties to local geology.

Eventually we reached a 360° view all round, even far away in the distance (though not clear in the photo) we caught a faint glimpse of Ben Nevis and this view of Schiehallion (our map position approximate). 

Driving a little further, requiring all 4-wheel-drive, we stopped at the bothy, to be refreshed with coffee, shortbread and a nip of whisky before a short walk for an overview to see red deer through Cameron's telescope (too far for photos). At this point we were walking on frozen ground, patches of snow and where icicles hung on the dripping peat hags.

Although the weather was deemed perfect for eagle-spotting we saw none, only a lone raven - and a Hercules performing exercises overhead.

Then it was straight back to base, the option of refreshment in the cafè and a browse round the shop but we had our own snacks in the car before returning home the pretty way - via Kenmore, over Glen Quaich, Amulree to the A85, east to the M90 and home.

What a super day out, thanks, kids.