Well, I’m in Glen Nevis and I’ve seen where some of ‘Braveheart’ was filmed (all the ‘Lanark’ scenes, including Murron’s murder.) Not much to see, but I definitely recognised the area. I’m staying at the ‘Ben Nevis Bunkhouse’, a no frills place with self-catering, showers, loo, and bunkbeds. I must say I’m a little nervous about staying here with two strange men who just walked in. They’ve been keeping the place clean (I think), so it should be okay. Besides, my instinct isn’t telling me to run!

Glen Nevis is gorgeous and I’ve hardly seen any of it! I’m very glad that most of the Ben was shrouded in mist today; it looks high enough without seeing any further up! I’ve got my map, food, and gear, and the weather tomorrow looks okay (but definitely not great). Still, tomorrow is my only day to climb, so I’ll do the best I can. I’ll be crying coming back up the hill to this bunkhouse, though!!! I had to walk into Fort William; it took me the better part of an hour. Considering where I’m staying, and the name of the town, I feel like a pioneer or something! Coming back with heavy bags was no picnic, but about halfway ‘home’ a kind ‘Fort Williamer’ offered to carry my grocery bags. We started talking and all that, and I came this close to missing my turnoff. As though I didn’t have far enough to go!! The ‘nearest’ phone which accepts a phonecard is 15 minutes away. I’m in the boonies, baby!

It’s incredible up here. It’s a rather exposed area, so the wind is really gusting and the rain is scraping our cheeks. It’s the kind of place where you just want to wrap a woollen plaid over your head and walk for ever!