Windy days in the hills

Although the weather wasn't great, we decided to head out into the Mourne Mountains. We headed off to Slieve Binnian, aware that the wind and rain weren't the best conditions to hike in, but still thought we'd give it a go.

Starting just above Annalong, we walked up the path passing some lonely houses and this horse which seemed less than impressed with the weather conditions! The grey sky and gusts of wind should have been a good indication of what was in store further up the mountain.

The snow and ice at the top of the Mournes had melted and the ground was thick with mud and slush which made progress slow. The wind gusts stopped us in our tracks but we were out so seemed crazy to turn back.

At points we were forced to hunker down in a bit of shelter. This photo of Oonagh Thompson might give some idea of the strength of the wind. Being somewhat more diminutive than the others out this time, it's not surprising she had to find shelter, but even the larger of us (no names) had to find cover.

The highest peak in this photo is Slieve Binnian. You may be able to see the pass between the two rocks.  As we climbed over this we were met with winds in and around 90 miles per hour. We didn't last long on the other side before having to turn around and head down the way we came. We lasted just long enough to get this photo which doesn't come close to doing the conditions justice. 

We were all pinned down and had to wait for a break in the wind and make a dash for shelter. Still time for a cup of tea before heading down and back to a warm house! Also the turkey and stuffing sandwiches were exceptional! 

The Mourne Mountains 10th December 2011

After an week of rain, howling winds and a bit of ice on the roads Saturday came and with it a day make for hiking.

A bit cloudy and not exactly warm but even sun shine to make it worth while getting into the Mournes. The wind had dropped a touch but it was still strong and cold enough to chill the face when it peaked out from the coat.

We started walking through thick woodland which sheltered us from the worst of the wind. The generous rain and melting ice further up the mountain swelled this little waterfall which we passed early on. The woodland finished pretty quickly and the extra layer that had been discarded gradually got put back on.

Apparently the Mourne Mountains were the inspiration for C. S. Lewis' Narnia and reaching the saddle between Slieve Donard and Slieve Commedagh you can see why. The layer of snow which covered the ground really did make the place look magical.

Of course not everyone was savoring the moment and soon snowballs started fizzing through the air. Luckily we're all terrible shots and not a single one landed, must do better next time!

As soon as we left the shelter of the Mourne wall we found that the wind hadn't in fact dropped and was pushing pretty hard. A few sideways steps and with the cloud closing in shortening visibility to a few meters we decided to head down.

Ruud decided that he'd had enough of walking and when the grip on his boots failed he let gravity take over. He zipped past on his backside, arms flailing and giggling like a kid in a sweet shop. Seemed like a good idea so I quickly followed. It was all fine and good until Ruud's giggles turned to a howl of pain. Turns out the snow not only makes the place looks great, but covered sharp rocks which Ruud has a habit of finding with his elbow and arse. I started walking after that.

Great to be out in the mountains again and looking forward to getting out there again!