After 10 days of almost continual testing weather, a perfect dawn promised a fine day ahead. Mindful of the need to return home we needed a short outing so opted for an ascent of the monarch of Glencoe – Bidean nam Bian. We were the first up to Coire nan Lochan which I have never seen looking batter. Clothed in a deep blanket of snow under an azure sky, the buttresses looked spectacular and as the snow seemed stable, I was inspired to take Ben up his first gully climb – Broad Gully. Kicking steps was an exhausting process in the deep fresh snow, Ben mounting my steps just a sling’s length behind. With the corrie to ourselves, brilliant sunshine to warm our bodies, and pristine snow, I think that we both felt a real sense of wonder and privilege. These moments when everything comes together don’t happen that often and I told Ben that if he lived to be 99 he wouldn’t have a better day in Glencoe than this. On unblemished snow we travelled like Gods in an Alpine heaven. On the ridge to Bidean the way became an exquisite wave of snow that required the placing of one foot on one side and one on the other. With no tracks or sight of anyone else this was a truly special moment that I hope I never forget. On the summit we just stared at the galaxy of snow-bedecked peaks all around. It was reluctantly that we descended and even an uncomfortable breakable crest on the steep descent to Coire nam Beith couldn’t spoil our exhilaration. Ben didn’t break through the crust so I struggled to keep up with him as I plunged through the icy crust up to my knees. The sunshine continued to beat down and it was Springlike when we arrived at the Clachaig where Alison was lapping up the rays. A perfect day.
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