Wednesday 2 July 2014

The Swords of Gideon

Spent the weekend over on The Applecross Peninsula. The tiny village of Applecross itself is tucked away on the far side of the highest mountain pass in the UK just about clinging to existence. Its on of the most stunning drives you'll find anywhere in the world (that must explain the hordes of bikers at least!).

Looking out from the south side of Sgurr a'Chaorachain
As far as climbing is concerned the centre-piece is the Cioch Nose on Sgurr a'Chaorachain. This huge VDiff is a massive undertaking and defiantly on the bucket list! Instead we opted for something a bit quicker and did the Tom Patey classic - Swords of Gideon. This 5 pitch mountain VS is rather unusual as it may sit at an altitude of 600m but is in fact only a 5 minute walk from the road!

Just after the 'delicate' traverse on the second pitch
The central pitches are absolutely fantastic and you wouldn't feel short changed even if you had walked the normal amount for a route of similar situation and character! Definatly worth the minor detour if you have time (and the weather!).


The crag in all its glory showing just how close to the road it is!

Applecross on a sunny day looking towards the Black Cullin

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