We rose early, threw down some breakfast and headed out for one of the best local mountains, the 2000 foot Buachaille Etive Mor.

We climbed the 3 star classic scramble ‘Curved Ridge’ and aimed at Agag’s groove, a rock climbing route on Rannock wall, that was far trickier than it should have been so I think we had drifted too far left and did something else! From there we gained the summit and had an early lunch.

The weather was glorious and I was very happy to be sat on one of my favourite mountains with excellent friends. The views down onto and across Rannock moor are always huge but I cannot remember having such clear far reaching views .

Despite over 30 years of climbing experience and having been on top of ‘the buckle’ many times we took an embarrassing amount of time picking our way around the summit looking for the down route! Eventually we found it and dropped down to our cars in an hour.

…its all about the landscape…

When you choose to stay at Glencoe Independent Hostel, you know its going to be all about the landscape. They have a beautiful gallery of photographs on their website to browse through and whet your appetite.

Precipitous mountains, broad valleys, wild rivers, moorland and deer – you might already be dreaming the big dreams. The owners offer guided walks through the area or you’ve got immediate access to amazing cycling, walking, climbing and kayaking. They are only 20 minutes from Glencoe Ski Centre and the West Highland Way and 40 minutes from Nevis Range.  So much to do!

You can then retire back to their converted croft or choose from caravans or cabins. Look at the picture of the Eco-cabin, I’m tempted.

Their user reviews echo my opinions, unsurprisingly everyone talks about the amazing location.

“Stayed in an Eco cabin during June. Loved it! The cabin is beautiful and very cosy! Not to mention the views!!! It was a perfect start to our Highland tour! Wish we could have stayed longer!” 

Glencoe Independent Hostel, just 20 mins walk from the Clachaig, has availability for new year

Glencoe Independent Hostel is only 20 minutes’ walk to the Clachaig Inn, where New Year is legendary with live music every night over the New Year Period.  Very unusually our alpine bunkhouse is still available  for new year.  For New Year we offer a minimum 4 night stay with sole use booking of the bunkhouse. Arriving anytime from 27th December to 30th December. The alpine bunkhouse which sleeps 16 in 3 bedrooms is £225 per night.   The bunkhouse has access to the site drying room and is  only 20 minutes’ walk to the Clachaig Inn.