Wednesday 5 August 2015

Circuit of Applecross Peninsula 31 July – 02 Aug 2015


The pictures in no way describe this trip accurately!





With wet and windy conditions there was much thought and discussion on Friday evening as to whether we should even attempt this trip or not. However, as time passed the wind abated slightly so we decided to set off. Conditions were fairly lumpy and wet, but we all made it. The advance party arrived at the Uags bothy at about 10pm, but the later party arrived in the dark with a head torch light from the bothy guiding them in. Conditions were much the same on Saturday with a spell of spectacularly heavy rain and a strong tail wind. A very welcome stop was made at the Applecross Inn for lunch, where we were welcomed despite all being dripping wet. The afternoon was much the same and with a few capsizes in the difficult conditions (all expertly rescued by Gillian and Brian) and so we decided to land and camp slightly short or our intended location. Tents were erected quickly and people were able to change into dry clothing and warm up. Constant showers interrupted our attempts to socialise so an early night was had by all. At last we saw some sunshine on Sunday. The wind was lighter so the sea much calmer – but we had to head into the wind now so the paddling was harder work. We were rewarded with spectacular views of the Torridon hills as we made our way to Shieldaig. One final haul of all the kit and boats up to the shore, collection and loading of the cars and, after refreshments in the hotel we were ready for the long wet drive home.
This was an exhilarating and challenging weekend for many of us but a great time was had by all. Many thanks to the organisers and to the more experienced paddles for looking after us.
Left to right in the group photo are Colin, Naomi, Chris, Oliver, Elizabeth, Charlotte, Peter, Gillian, Ken, Steve and Brian. 

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