The Great Wilderness Challenge ("GWC")

This challenge is less than four weeks away now and I am not sure I will be ready for it. I hope the other members of the "Cadogans Grouse Beaters" feel more confident. The Cadogans Grouse Beaters has previously successfully completed the Caledonian and Rob Roy Challenges.

The GWC is a 25 mile walk (we are not running) between Dundonnell and Poolewe, which takes place on 18 August 2012. We will be raising money for the following principal local charities.

Highland Hospice    

Skye & Lochalsh Young Carers Project 

CLIC Sargent

Archie Foundation - Raigmore Appeal

Children 1st

Ross-shire Womens Aid         

All donations would be gratefully received.

I will of course let you know how we get on.

Pine martens are elusive members of the weasel family, and sport a creamy yellow throat bib. Found throughout most of central and northern Europe, this once heavily persecuted marten is now extinct from most of England and Wales. Their last remaining UK stronghold is in Scotland. They favour well wooded areas where they can nest in hollow trees and old animal homes. Pine martens eat small mammals and seasonally available produce such as autumn fruits and berries. They are also treetop hunters that can race skillfully along branches, leaping from tree to tree in pursuit of squirrels.

Pine Marten Siting 28 June 2012

Having alighted from the Westerbus last Thursday evening to walk the 15 mins to the house, I saw a Pine Marten. It crossed the main road and hopped up on the stone wall where it proceeded to walk towards me. I got a very close view before it jumped down and disappeared in amongst the rhododendron. A great bonus to the weekend.

This was a five star walk, which starts and ends at Greenhill. We set off at about 3pm and arrived home just before 10pm.

We followed the route from the Slioch car park to Loch Maree and then up Glen Bianisdale to Lochan Fada. Walk round the shore of the Lochan to find the good path down to the Heights of Kinlochewe. From there to Greenhill. You know you are almost home when Ben Eighe comes into view.

Lochan Fada

Slioch and Lochan Fada