Braemar

So now I’ve walked my first Corbett.

After the Wainwrights I have no intention of embarking on another list.

Morrone, the hill, which just happens to be on the list of Corbetts, was conveniently placed by Braemar.

An easy walk up from the hostel.

We’d arrived in Braemar the previous afternoon.  A weekend of walking planned over Easter.

I forgot to order the weather and though Friday was fine it was not due to last.

Taking advantage of the lull on arrival, a quick afternoon hike round, then up Creag Choininch.

Braemar from Creag Choininch

By 5pm the trees were howling above us.  An ominous taste of the morrow.

Pine forests on Craeg Choininch

Saturday and the trees round the hostel belied and eerie calm.  Nothing appeared to be moving. Except the rain.  We set off up the valley, getting wetter by the minute, then headed up Morrone.

Morrone

Rounded. Heather covered. Grouse squawking and mountain hares skirting between the odd, remaining, patch of snow.

Morrone Summit

Wind and more wind.  Blisteringly so by the rounded top was reached.  Huddled in the lea of the radio mast for a five minute tea break then down through a cloying mist.

Relieved of the rushing wind into an ancient birch forest. Gnarled trees decorated in lichen green. And drips.

Time to retire to a tea room.