Temperatures of minus 12 degrees with a bit of snow and ice and a fair amount of sunshine added up to two days of perfect ice climbing in Aviemore last week. I went up with Ian Wilson Young who dragged me up a couple of grade IV routes in the Cairngorms. It was the best weather (except when the above photo was taken!) and climbing that I’ve ever had in Scotland. We spent one cold night in a tent before moving into a B&B for the next two nights.

I then drove up to the Applecross peninsula for some walking in the Torridon hills. I walked up a few Munroes, coming out on a ridge above the clouds and was treated to the most stunning views. I came back today having stopped off on the way back with friends in Loch Tay and Newcastle.

I’ll certainly be back – it was well worth the long drive. Meanwhile it’s now back to work… plenty to be done!