Day 12: Fort William

Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in UK, was our destination today. We had been preparing for this hike since the trip planning started months ago. Hiking boots, raincoat windbreakers, sturdy umbrellas, bug spray, etc. all bought for this hike. We are grateful for all these preparations throughout the trip since all had been very helpful, but today is the big day!

We had planned to hike to the summit, which would’ve taken 8 to 10 hours, but since we had dinner reservation and an evening cruise planned, we simply didn’t have the time to do so. Furthermore, the peak was shrouded in thick layers of clouds, we didn’t think we could see much from it. So we revisited our plan to 4 to 5 hours of hiking.

Compared with our hike yesterday, this one was actually easier, because there is a clear path to the top, most of it are steps. There are spots that are very rough and harder to pass especially with two way traffic, but honestly not too bad. Easier path doesn’t mean the hike is not hard though. After climbing thousands of steps, legs do get tired and knees start to ache. However, I am proud to say that my fitness has passed the test. After about three hours of climbing, I could continue without an issue. However, we had to turn back due to time constraints. So after a lovely picnic by a waterfall, we turned back. As always, the return trip is faster. But due to the wet conditions of the path, I fell down twice!! Fortunately I landed on my bottom, and didn’t hurt my tailbone, or scrape my hands too bad. A nice British guy who saw my fall offered me chocolate to make me feel better. I thanked him but declined.

The views along the hike were breathtaking.

After a nice dinner at a local restaurant, we boarded our evening cruise, and had a lovely time on the water.

We are heading to Isle of Skye tomorrow!Read more