Raven 7

Race: Raven 7 fell race (12k/580m)

Time/Position: 65.07 (9th from 29)

Although a predictably slow and plodding performance, I really enjoyed this new course, a much longer extension of the old King John's Castle fell race. I have done that race three times, finishing 2nd, 3rd and 4th! So this was a marked decline, but having hardly raced recently (my last two races were the short Ponderosa, and the Castles relay back in June), or run much at all, it was inevitable. The hills above Llanarmon yn Ial are perhaps the nicest in the Clwydians, and the race started on the familiar haul up towards Moel Gyw, which we then climbed via the tiny heather trod. I was in 6th place at this point, quite blustery and cloudy, and then really enjoyed the fact and familiar descent towards Moel y Plas. I knew I would struggle on the brutally steep climb up the front of this, and I did, losing two or three places. I felt reasonably good on the new section, contouring round to the mast and back along the main OD path, then down to the finish at the pub itself.

PitP parkrun

'Race': Park in the Past parkrun

Time/Position: 18.43 (1st from 169)

After all the long but slow mountain travel over the last few days, it was good to increase the pace here at the local parkrun. Given that I have hardly run for a couple of weeks, and my mileage generally is very low as I struggle with the heel injury, I was fairly pleased to be able to sustain a respectable pace in rather wet conditions underfoot (albeit nowhere near as bad as it got last winter). This was my third 'win' at the PitP 'timed run'.

Besseggen Ridge

Peaks: Bandet, Besseggen, Vestfjellet (1743m)

Area: Jotunheimen, Norway

Almost certainly Norway's most famous mountain day, this attracts large numbers of tourists from all over the world. As such, it is the kind of thing I would usually studiously avoid, but there was obvious potential to do it on my own ahead of the crowds - partly because, not to put too fine a point on it, most of those doing it take a very long time! The usual time given is 6-8 (or even more) hours, so I thought I'd trot along and set a not-too-terrible geriatric time for it, with sub-3 an obvious basic target to aim for. It worked a treat. I got the first ferry from Gjendesheim across the lake to Memurubu, which was lovely and something I wanted to do anyway. Then it was back up the steep climb I'd done yesterday (and descended two days ago) despatching it in 28 minutes (for the 2k/440m climb to the tourists 'warning sign'). Then came the ridge, which was sheer delight. I was completely alone, miles ahead of the tourists from the very beginning, so could just enjoy it without prejudice. It is undeniably stunning, albeit so much lower than Besshoe that I would have found it very frustrating and unsatisfactory to have done it without first doing that dominant peak. The lake of Bjonblitjonne is the first feature, and the ridge begins to cohere here, just above it - whilst on the right, the stunning shimmering Gjende. The walls above the latter begin to steepen at this point. A broad rocky ridge then leads down to the most famous section, a little narrow neck of land between Gjende and then Bessvatnet on the left (the lake I had walked alongside yesterday). This is a really stunning spot, and it is entirely understandable that thousands of people want to see it. The cliffs plunge down to Gjende on the right, with Friday's peak Knutshoe far below. Bessvatnet is closer and higher on the left, with Besseggen looming as an impressive black peak, reminiscent of Skye, directly above. Then comes the scramble, up excellent rock, and for a short while this recalls Crib Goch. Very enjoyable, albeit a little short. At a platform, the steepness eases and the ridge loses some of its coherence. At a subpeak, the mist came down and I trotted across the now much broader plateau to Vestfjellet, the main summit in a light snow flurry (2c!). I got here in just under two hours, which didn't seem too bad. The descent from here is a bit trickier than I'd expected and still superb, albeit less spectacular that what had preceded it. It hugs the walls above Gjende with views down to Gjendesheim, which now becomes visible still far below (essentially the reverse of the view from the hut's lounge, which looks up to this point). A few little rock walls are surprisingly steep and there are a few chains at this point. A quick traverse gains the main path down to Gjendesheim which I was already familiar with. I ended up with a time of 2.45 for the 14k/1150m traverse, which I was quite satisfied with given that the pace was fairly relaxed and the terrain entirely rock underfoot. I was back well before midday, giving plenty of time to relax at Gjendesheim drinking coffee looking back at the ridge before my bus to Oslo at 3pm. It got very cold in a bitter wind later on.

Besshøe

Peaks: Besshøe (2258m)

Area: Jotunheimen, Norway

Besshoe is the giant peak that I had spent the last few days circumnavigating, in fact my route had been a kind of 'Tour du Besshoe'. So whereas logic demanded that I do the famous Besseggen Ridge this morning, as the weather was perfect and I was already in position at the start in Memurubu, my brain went for an alternative option. This was partly because I pride myself on that kind of flexible thinking, and (related) because I wanted to get up another of the Norwegian 2000ers after Glittertind. Besshoe actually dominates the landscape here, despite the fact that almost all of the global tourists have eyes only for the much lower Besseggen Ridge. Anyway, after breakfast surrounded by schoolkids, it was back up the zig-zag climb I'd descended from the final pass yesterday. This is also the start of Besseggen and there are dire warnings about timing all the way up (ie, if you've taken longer than two hours to reach this spot, turn back). The weather was superb, by far the best of the trip, and this was another reason why my plans started to change, because the high peaks were clear for the first time. At this point I still hadn't decided what to do with the day, but when I reached the 'three hour warning' sign for Besseggen in around 45 minutes my mind was made up. I would have been down from the Besseggen Ridge too early, it would have been a waste of a day, so I decided to plot my way up Besshoe, which was looming attractively to my left. Behind me, the even more impressive Surtningssue, a crystal clear glaciated peak against a deep blue background. At the top of the first rise, I took a lumpy moraine ridge heading towards what seemed to me to be the most obvious route up from this side, the SW ridge. There was no path, and this was really satisfying. It was over boulders but they were fairly solid and eventually I spied a cairn or two a little further right, so somebody had been this way before! I picked my way up and the ridge, although broad, was nicely defined. I still hadn't fully decided on my plans, as I originally intended to bag the peak then return to do Besseggen. It eventually dawned on me that this was a pointless scheme, and also a potentially problematic one given the complexity of the route and nature of the bouldery ridge. Once I gained the summit plateau (Besshoe is a giant dome of a peak, steep and well-defended on all sides but with a shallow, rounded summit) my plans had changed decisively - I was definitely traversing the peak then coming back to do Besseggen tomorrow morning. I checked I could book the boat from Gjendesheim (I was committed to spending the night there as I had booked), had a bite to eat on the atmospheric summit and took in the magnificently huge view. This stretched for miles in the perfectly clear morning air. The plunging western cliffs of Besshoe lent definition to the valleys I had recently traversed, and then Glittertind, Galdhoppigen and a galaxy of peaks further west across wild upland scenery. I think I could see Hurrungane and other rockier peaks in the distance, as well as mountains like Eggen across Lake Gjende. A superb and memorable few minutes, after which I found the normal route which I planned to descend - this takes a broad and fairly shallow ridge between cliffs on one side and a glacier (rapidly receding) on the other, the Bessbraen. It was a very nice way down, again fairly complex, with Besseggen to the right and the beautifully clear lake of Bessvatnet directly below. With the glacier on the left, it became a classic moraine with dusty boulderfields and gravel, until it eventually gave way to a sun-dappled green meadow, complete with babbling stream, below the black bleakness of the moraines. I had lunch here, absolutely delightful, revelling in the situation (I had the entire mountain to myself and saw nobody). Then came a long but easy walk out along the shores of Bessvatnet to a lonely hut and then the bridge at the outflow that I'd crossed on the walk to Glitterheim. I hadn't seen any of this terrain on day one as it was so misty, so it was an enjoyable trot up to the pass and down the final descent to Gjendesheim (18k/1300m/4.40) where we dined on local pork and sauerkraut. I spent the night in the old dorm hut right next to the river.

Glitterheim hut-Memurubu hut

Peaks: Sjurgurdtinden (1305m)

Area: Jotunheimen, Norway

This was a wonderful route through magnificent terrain. The scenery evolved constantly and every step was enjoyable, in weather that gradually improved throughout the day. From Glitterheim I had to retrace steps back up to the Hesterlaegerhoe pass, but this was no bad thing as the high plateau is such a magnetic, atmospheric place. The cloudbase was gradually lifting as I crested the pass and moved quite quickly over the boulder fields eventually branching off decisively down Blatjonn for Memurubu, with Russvatnet shimmering below. Ahead, Besshoe with its gigantic western rock ramparts still draped in mist. A superb fast flowing river (the Blatjonn I assume) was crossed by a bridge, and then the path gradually descends to the lake shore and follows this inexorably towards a superbly alluring narrowing of the valley which is blocked by the foot of Gloptinden, a low but impressive pyramidal peak that I had mild designs on. A burst of sunshine lit the narrow valley opening as I approached it near the isolated hut of Blackwellbue (named after an English climber I think), a huge waterfall coming down from Surtingsue on the right. This gave access to Nedre Russglopet, the narrow valley, although there was no obvious way up Gloptinden from here sadly. After a drink, the route climbs to a high col, the climax of the route, and then sudden spectacular views down to Lake Gjende. At that point the sun came out, alongside a light shower, creating an incredible play of light. I was looking down at the ridge that forms a continuation of Besseggen to the end of the lake at Gjendebu. I wondered about taking in another peak up here, but eventually decided to descend to Memurubu, which nestles in a stunning location on green meadows half way along Gjende. Good job I did, as another massive school party was taking up all the rooms again, the same as Glitterheim last night! I did eventually get a bed in one of the original (C19?) wooden buildings well away from the main hut, which was perfect and hugely atmospheric, with views over the lake and up to the peak of Eggen and a giant waterfall coming down from a hanging valley. The weather was now decisively clearing for the first time so I made my way up to the obvious mini-peak of Sjurgurdtinden which towers above, and is highly reminiscent of the Lake District. I was up it in no time, a lovely extension of the day, and spent a memorable half hour on the summit enjoying a genuinely stunning panorama across the lake, up to Besseggen and Besshoe, and down to the Memurudalen valley.

Glittertind

Peaks: Glittertind (2452m)

Area: Jotunheimen, Norway

Once upon a time, Glittertind competed with neighbouring Galdhoppigen for the title of the highest mountain in Scandinavia (and northern Europe). Now, however, it is decisively second, as the summit ice-cap has melted in recent years. It made an obvious objective from the Glitterheim hut, which lies below it, although the weather this morning was much worse than the forecast (unlike yesterday, which turned out better than the dreadful forecast suggested). It is a vast, bulky peak, and the cloud base was low although views over the atmospheric lake of Nedre Steinbuvann were superb, with mist draping the high mountain cwm that contains it. Glittertind is a fair old slog up bouldery moraine material, and the wet weather didn't help. It was never especially heavy though, and higher up the SE ridge becomes better defined with misty views over the northern and eastern glaciers which remain pretty extensive. I wasn't feeling as sharp as usual and it took two hours to get to the rather bleak summit, marked by a couple of wooden planks. An unusual experience followed, as I had to do quite a lot of admin and route planning (because I had a signal for the first time since Gjendesheim, there was nothing at the hut). This took a while, and I was pretty cold by the time I'd finished! After all the logistics, I stuck to 'plan a' again, and descended back to the Glitterheim hut rather than traversing to Spiterstulen. Also, because of the weather, I opted not to extend the route to Riggehoe, which was definitely the right decision as, if anything, the weather worsened as I descended. By the time I reached the lake it was raining fairly heavily, which was a shame as I really wanted to explore it and have lunch there. I did this anyway, but it was a bit soggy. Still a spectacular location though.

Gjendesheim hut-Glitterheim hut

Peaks: Vestre Hestlaegerhoe (1758m)

Area: Jotunheimen, Norway

After yesterday's aperitif, the main business began here in light rain and low cloud. This was always forecast to be the worst day of weather, to the point that I seriously considered changing my plans and just getting the boat to Gjendebu. In the event though, I stuck to 'plan a', as some kind of clearance seemed likely after midday. After a very nice breakfast, I started from Gjendesheim in light rain: the route starts to climb immediately up to the first pass and junction with the very popular Bessegen ridge. Some stunning views over Gjende and the cloud-draped walls of Besseggen, until I entered the clag at the pass. Even this was atmospheric though, with crags looming out of the mist on the left. The rain was fairly light, and there was very little wind (and it was quite mild) so my weather 'rules' complied. Quite suddenly, the outflow of Bessvatnet lake appeared just below the cloudbase. I crossed a little bridge and then the route gently descended through wild terrain until a spectacular clearance saw Nautgardstinden appear above the clouds. A wet descent led to the huge lake of Russvatnet, which would become quite familiar over the next few days. Another suspension bridge crossed the rapids of Saubue which led down a beautiful valley to the east, and two or three huts along the shoreline (Russvassbue). The route hugged the banks of the lake for a while before starting to climb up a shallow stream valley to a rickety monkey bridge over a small gorge. I had a snack here, and a tiny hint of sunshine peeked through the clouds as the ramparts of mighty Besshoe across the lake appeared through tendrils of mist. Above this, I made the biggest mistake of the trip, opting to follow the marked Blatjonn route to Glitterheim rather than the steeper Tjonnholae 'shortcut' which would have made for a more satisfying tour (because the marked route took in more of the terrain I would have to repeat on the return journey). It wasn't a big problem though, as this takes in some memorable and spectacular terrain. I contoured the hillside as the rain began again and eventually gained the vast bouldery plateau with huge views up to the eastern peaks and cwms of Surtningssue, a massive and complex massif. The plateau is an extraordinary place, high-up, awkward underfoot and very atmospheric. No doubt the standard route comes this way because there isn't that much elevation gain required to access the key pass, the Hestlaegerhoe. It is tiring through, because of the rocky terrain, and I suspect some people really struggle here (conversations at the hut suggested that was indeed the case). I felt OK, although I'd covered 20k or so, and decided to nip up to the side peak of Vestre Hestlaegerhoe which was just above, partly because the weather was clearing again. This was the lower of two rounded, minor summits either side of the key pass. The rock was mossy and untravelled but I got to the cairn easily and then descended back to the pass: it was, as ever, satisfying to take in a summit, even a minor one. The terrain continues rocky and awkward down Hestbekken to the stunning valley of the Veo river, the Glitterheim hut nestled at the base. Above, Glittertind itself was emerging from the mist, my target for tomorrow. To the left, at the top of this magnificent wild valley was Leirhoe, still glaciated. It was now brighter again, and in some ways I didn't want to reach the hut! It is highly circuitous to get to anyway, because of the amount of water and braided river channels throughout this valley (24k/1100m, just over five hours). A relaxing afternoon and evening followed before a stupendous meal of cured trout, reindeer heart sausage, carpaccio, and much more. It rained all night but I was cosily ensconced by then.

Knutshoe

Peaks: Knutshoe (1517m)

Area: Jotunheimen, Norway

Knutshoe is a perfect miniature mountain which gave an ideal start to my Jotunheimen trip. This was my return to the Norwegian mountains after 35 years away. My university expeditions to Okstinden in 1989 and 1991 had an enormous impact on me, it's probably not an exaggeration to say that in many ways they changed my life. I assumed I would return to Norway regularly, but I suppose I was lured away by many other (cheaper) mountain ranges worldwide. So the return was long overdue, particularly as it is so easy to get to the Jotunheimen, making it ridiculous that this was my first visit. After weeks of glorious weather, I was unlucky in the sense that the weather changed when I arrived. In fact persistent rain was forecast from around 5pm, so as soon as I saw Knutshoe from the Oslo bus, free of cloud and sitting in the landscape as a perfect little ridge, I asked the driver to drop me off at Vargebakken, and then it was straight into it at around 2pm. Cloud draped the higher Bessegen ridge across Lake Gjende and was very threatening over the bigger peaks to the west, but Knutshoe remained clear. The little birch trees, lichen and juniper immediately bought memories flooding back and I immediately felt at home in the landscape. The route is level for a while and then comes the first rise to gain the long ridge which forms the mountain. This is the steepest part of the entire route and actually has a couple of tricky scrambling moves, perhaps even grade 2 or 3, up a sort of open book groove below a steep wall. It doesn't last long and gives way to a broad ridge up which I made quick progress, trying to get up before the rain, which now seemed inevitable. It goes up and down a bit to gain a final forepeak before a descent. Then comes the last steep scramble on good rock, really enjoyable, to the true summit. Extraordinary views down to Ovre Leirungen, a turqouise lake and valley which feeds into the famous Lake Gjende, which I could also see. The ambience was stunning with black clouds draped around the higher peaks, plunging waterfalls, the two lakes, and across to big interior peaks like Storend. The modern description for this is 'epic', probably apt in this instance, and I couldn't believe it has taken me 35 years to come back. It started to rain as soon as I started the descent but never developed beyond light showers, meaning the tricky downclimb was fine with a bit of thought. At the base I had to get to Gjendesheim so took a side path through boggy birch woodland and a path along the eastern banks of Nedre Leirungen with perfect views back to Knutshoe. I had to regain the road where the Sjoe river feeds into the Gjende, exhilarating meltwater, to loop back to the packed Gjendesheim hut where I had to spend the night on a sofa in the lower lounge after feasting on superb reindeer stew. It rained heavily from 5pm, incredibly atmospheric views from the hut across the black lake.

Bochlwyd climbing

Crag: Clogwyn Bochlwyd

Routes: Wall Climb (HS 4b:sec), Arete and Slab (D:led), One Pitch Route (VS 4c:sec), Chimney Climb Direct (HS 4b:sec), Two Pitch Route (S:sec)

A venue I have visited many times, but even though I was largely just a passenger again today I did a couple of variations I don't think I've done before. Peter kicked off with Wall Climb in disappointing weather: cool, almost cold, and unexpectedly windy. It gives a great pitch, quite stiff for the grade, which I remembered fairly well although it must be decades since I led it. A ramp goes left to a steep wall with some great climbing on sharp holds up to a ledge. Above this, after a steep crux pull the angle eases. Nice pitch, windy throughout but Peter was experimenting with mini walkie-talkies which worked really well. I then led the easy Arete and Slab which I've done many times before, including solo, up a steep crack on enormous holds to the slabbier finish. I don't think I've ever done One Pitch Route before, and enjoyed following Peter up it. Essentially an eliminate, it goes up to Marble Slab before sidling leftwards along a horizontal crack to a short and surprisingly technical crux with little for the feet. After lunch we got on the old Eryri classic, Chimney Climb. I hate to think how long ago I did this with Tim: 35 years perhaps? It was so dry that Peter did the direct version, which goes up a black, mossy crack - presumably usually horribly damp but today dry and climbable. It gives a steep layback to the ledge, after which an awkward steep move over the obstruction leads to the easier upper chimney - I remembered this from all those years ago. Finally, we did the mild severe Two Pitch Route which I've done many times before.

Crewe parkrun

'Race': Crewe parkrun

Time/Position: 18.47 (8th from 432)

Eight hours in Crewe: does it get any better? This kicked the day off and was an encouraging performance by recent standards, particularly given my lack of current mileage. Queens Park in Crewe is delightful, it must be one of the most scenic urban parks in the region, and the parkrun takes three laps of it. It is tight and twisting, with a few little climbs, but all on tarmac paths. I worked my way up the field after a quickish first lap and felt reasonably good until the sprint finish, which was a little way beyond where I expected it to be! After breakfast I then headed off for a bike ride to Mow Cop, incorporating the killer mile. I was a minute slower than my 'on foot' time recorded in March and - unlike the Cheshire Cat sportive in 2011 - I failed to do it one go and essentially chickened out of the ludicrously steep section near where the pub used to be. In the 2011 sportive I did stay upright on my triple and have a medal and photo to show for it! I then rode back via Kidsgrove, where I got lost in a council estate, and then an awful short section of the A500 before getting to Barthomley and back to Crewe Green in time for the football, part three of the Crewe day.

Holt to Horseshoe 75k

A nice way of incorporating the Alpine-style ascent of the Horseshoe from Llangollen via a long warm-up. A very long warm-up really, from home to Holt and then south to Cross Lanes via a closed road and the continuation along Kiln Lane to Eyton. From here, the character changes as the route heads west to Johnstown and Ruabon before heading to Llangollen. I had a cheese pastie and then despatched the climb, which didn't go as well as it should have done given my Alpine training! Home via Bwlchgwyn and Cefn y Bedd.

St Asaph 90k loop

Another variant on the Tour de Flintshire concept, although this one contained substantial chunks of Denbighshire! I will have to work a Flanders-style 'Ronde' maximising the climbs one day. This morning I rode to Mold via Padeswood, then Peter joined me for the climb through Cadole and up to Penbarras from the gentle side (unlike my trials up the other side last week). This is still quite steep towards the top, and the descent is so steep that it isn't very relaxing with my skinny tyres. Below, the Vale of Clwyd looked more like Almeria with baked yellow fields throughout. We rode along the quiet lanes through Gellifor and Llandyrnog to Bodfari, where we went out seperate ways: Peter back to Mold and me to St Asaph. I put in a bit of an effort from Trefnant crossroads to St Asaph cathedral - 6.04 at 32.6km/h, but I was held up at the lights to be fair so most of it was 36km/h which by my standards is good. A lovely lunch in St Asaph was perfect fuelling for the return up Rhuallt hill to the quiet lanes through Babell and Halkyn, descending to Mold and home via Pontblyddyn.

Carreg y Foel Gron

Crag: Carreg y Foel Gron, Moelwynion

Routes: Shark's Fin (HS 4b:sec), Slab Direct (E1 5a:sec), Too Many Children (VS 4c:sec), Elephant's Walk Direct (HS 4b:sec), Skinny Arete (VD:led)

I was passenger for most of the day today, for several very good reasons. It is a nice venue, I remember playing around on this crag a few years ago with a shunt and maybe some soloing. We went to the upper tier first, where Peter led the obvious plum line of the Shark's Fin. If this was two or three times longer it would be a total classic. As it is, a shuffle up and right gains the arete which is climbed in a lovely position. It is much easier than it looks. The upper tier has a delightful tranquil atmosphere, with views of the central Moelwynion, and the rock is perfect: rough, unpolished and wonderfully textured. Slab Direct was also good with some tricky finishing moves straight up the obvious feature (which gets steep at the top). A lovely VS crackline finished our business here, another route which would be a famous classic if only it was longer. The lower tier is far more popular and often has groups on it. The rock is still excellent and rough though, and the direct on Elephant's Walk gave a great pitch which I may have done before: wonderful holds and pleasant cracks. Finally, I led the easy but enjoyable line of Skinny Arete which goes up a very gentle slab before pulling comfortably on to a steeper but short final ridge. Plenty of time for a pint in the Albion before collecting Kate.

Alderford Lake parkrun

'Race': Alderford Lake parkrun

Time/Position: 18.59 (3rd from 196)

An unexpected V55 age group course record, probably due to perfect underfoot conditions rather than any kind of 'speed'! It is a lovely course, two laps around a delightfully tranquil tree-lined lake - a bit like a more scenic version of Park in the Past. As we are in a drought, the ground is rock hard so although this course is all off-road (grass and dusty paths) and quite tortuous I was able to maintain a decent pace, at least on the first lap. It is the 257th running of this parkrun so the course record was a surprise. Another beautiful sunny morning, not too hot.

Penmaenbach climbing

Crag: Penmaenbach

Routes: Agent Orange (f5c:led), Silly A55 Arete (f6a+:sec), Jack A55 Slab (f4c:led)

For completion.

Clwydian climbs ride

It has been many years since I did the fearsome Old Bwlch from Llanbedr DC. It is undoubtedly one of the hardest climbs in the region, and more or less the exact opposite of the Galibier (which I did exactly three weeks ago). I thought it would be bleakly comic to mark that three week anniversary by doing a climb that it is ten times shorter, far less glamorous, and twice as steep! I took the Padeswood lanes to get to Mold, then the climbing diversion to avoid the main road through Rhydymwyn and then the standard Moel Arthur climb from Nannerch. This was despatched in 14 minutes, not too terrible, and then came the steep descent down to the Vale. From here, a gentle spin along to Llanbedr before starting the climb up Penbarras. This is straight and steep, and gets steeper once the houses are left behind. It then rears up intimidatingly, reaching a savage 20% for 100 metres until a cattle grid and the famed 25% hairpin bend. This is a real fight, but marks the end of the hardest riding, giving way to a more standard finish. Again, this kicks up to 14% at the end. I reached Penbarras in 16 minutes, which is two minutes slower than my running time for the same climb from the village set just a few months ago! Fast descending to Mold, then through Pontblyddyn to Rhyddyn hill and home: 56k/1000m. 

Buckley handicap

The usual hilly 5k course over the tracks from the main Famau car park. Slower than previous runnings, predictably enough, but this still felt like a useful session with tired legs after a hard ride yesterday and the fell race on Wednesday. Andy, Jez and I all finished in about the same time, but I just edged third place with 21.28 or so. By rights you should always finish mid-table in a handicap I always feel, otherwise you've been economical with the truth!

Conwy-Shordley 85k

An indirect route from Conwy to home via the Vale of Clwyd and a nice variant on the linear routes I have done a few times over the years. Some drizzle, the first for weeks, but this had eased by the time I had breakfast and then there was a light tailwind that meant I was pretty quick as soon as I reached the prom in Colwyn Bay. All the way to Rhyl and a quick mechanical fix for my pedals, and then through the west of the town to St Asaph, around 35kph from Rhuddlan. Lovely lunch and then it was down the Vale of Clwyd all the way to Ruthin before heading towards the Shelf. This is a well-known climb but it has been years since I did it, perhaps as many as 20? It isn't easy to find, but I did and some memory of it kicked in. I was going OK after my Alpine exploits but there was a council trailer stuck half way up which meant I had to dismount and climb a mud bank! It is a long climb by local standards, perhaps 6k with 300m of elevation, something like that, and is very narrow and deformed in places: a bigger contrast with an iconic TdF col would be hard to imagine. Then it is mostly downhill to Llandegla, through to Bwlchgwyn and then down to Cefn y Bedd and home: 85k/1200m.

Ponderosa

Race: Ponderosa hill race

Time/Position: 31.59 (16th from 73 [1st V55])

By far my slowest ever time at this event, but given that I'm only running a few miles a week and haven't raced properly since the Castles relay, I was pleased enough with this little outing. I felt it was short enough to run without harming my heel, although the race is mostly about the descent - and it is extremely dry as we are now officially in drought. I got to the top of Cyrn y Brain in a conservative 10 minutes or so and then got caught behind a group of three on the very narrow paths that characterise the long descent on this race. These are always exhilarating and I knew Simon would be close behind. He was, but I just about stayed ahead on the final climb back to the Ponderosa.

Four counties 100k ride

Keen to build on the small amount of cycling fitness gained during the trip, this was perhaps the first time I've ever ridden to Whitchurch from home. I took the usual route through Rossett to Holt with a slight tailwind, feeling very comfortable indeed. Then the lanes through Tilston to Malpas, but continuing along similarly quiet lanes - very possibly new to me - all the way to Whitchurch (and therefore Shropshire). From here I should have gone south to Hanmer but instead took the road towards Bangor. This was busier than I'd expected so I retreated to the lanes north to Tallwrn Green. The problem with these lanes is that they rarely go where you want them to! I used distant Hope Mountain as an unlikely navigation tool and eventually emerged between Worthenbury and Bangor - more familiar territory which will, for me, always be associated with my 50 mile covid lockdown solo ultra. As with that day, I stopped at the little shop for a sarnie, then continued further south into the English Maelor past the racecourse with a sharp climb to Overton (now the headwind came into play). The road was closed at the Dee bridge near Erbistock but I was allowed to pass and then quite enjoyed the little climbs to Ruabon. From here I rode into Wrexham and then out to the north on an extension to Dodleston and Broughton, in order to tick off my first 100k ride of the year. Almost exactly four hours/100k/1000m elevation. A really enjoyable spin in decent conditions, not too hot but with a nagging moderate westerly.

PitP parkrun

'Race': Park in the Past parkrun

Time/Position: 19.07 (3rd from 199)

This went to form, in the sense that I'm doing very little running (and zero training) at present, but it was still slightly annoying not to go under 19. This is almost a minute slower than my course PB which remains the V55 course record. Perfect conditions this morning, as we are now in a full drought and this course really benefits from dry conditions. Dust clouds and quite warm already. I've been a bit tired all week following the rigours of the big trip.

Leinpfad parkrun

'Race': Leinpfad parkrun (Merzig)

Time/Position: 18.58 (2nd from 98)

The final piece in the complex three-week planning jigsaw, another German parkrun vaguely en route home. After the Tour stage, I was held up by roadworks and also a fairly complex route round Strasbourg to the German border. But I slept pretty well in the van despite parking in Merzig train station! In fact, the stadtpark (venue for the parkrun) had loads of parking and would have been perfect. I had a small but delightful breakfast at the very popular Tinnes bakery and then really enjoyed the friendly parkrun. I went better than expected after the rigours of the last week (last three weeks really!). It was a complex route from the park north to a little pond and mini zoo with animals, then back along the towpath it is named after, along the banks of the Saar. I couldn't catch the chap in front, but watched his movements closely as it wasn't always obvious where the route went. I broke the V55 course record fairly comfortably, somewhat surprising given it had been going for well over 300 weeks. The warm-down was equally memorable, crossing into Luxembourg for a delightful pootle through the Moselle vineyards from Remerschen and Schengen (a famous name indeed). Even better, I ended with a swim in the wonderful Baggerweier, removing a great deal of filth before the long final drive home.

Ballon d'Alsace

A perfectly planned trip to watch a key Tour stage and, as a bonus, do another iconic Vosges climb. The nomenclature hereabouts is famously confusing: I'd done the Grand Ballon on the way down. This was just the Ballon, which is generally agreed to be the first mountain ever climbed by the Tour. After a luxury night in Besancon, I was recharged, particularly because I dined on a knepfle and munster gratin, another heavy Alsatian lunch! My plan was to head up the climb from the east, convenient for the journey home, and for the stage as the riders were heading up it from the north. I parked in Oberbruck and took the cycle path to Sewen and the start of the climb. I packed a rucsac, ready for a longish wait, and luckily the climb is a fairly easy one. Some hairpins lead above Sewen to the Lac d'Alfeld. This is, I think, the name of the valley the route then takes a big loop around. Or it might be the Langenberg, I'm not sure (could be just the usual Alsatian blend of languages). Anyway, after a few steep sections the angle eases and I powered up (by my standards), passing a fair number of other cyclists en route to watch too. It took me a while and a bit of moving around to get to the best viewing place - the Ballon being a huge plateau really. It was a brilliant stage with the field completely fragmented and the weather just about stayed dry. The descent was fairly extraordinary, hundreds (perhaps even thousands) of cyclists pelting downhill (almost all far faster than me) after watching a classic stage in the world's greatest race.

Crete de la Neige

Peaks: Le Reculet (1717m), Crete de la Neige (1720m)

Area: Haute Jura, France

Back to the tranquility of the Jura, in the spirit of returning home in gradual segments rather than in one huge drive (as I would have done in the past). As such, this worked brilliantly. After Semnoz I had the perfect river bath near Mesigny and eventually camped south of Lelex in the dark and quiet depths of the Valserine. These two hills are the Jura highpoints and I had pinpointed them as an ideal outing for M and I. They didn't meet the family criteria however (no swimming lake) so this morning I set out at a 'running' pace, heading upwards through thick and very steep forest. This wasn't particularly pleasant, but eventually I emerged from the treeline and things improved considerably. Across an open upland area I could see the giant cross on Le Reculet. I made my way up to it, running slowly, and gained the main Jura ridge again. I think Le Reculet was assumed to be the highpoint of the ridge for years, hence the cross, not least because it is more impressive and stands alone. From it, I headed south directly and then negotiated several paths that lead through beautiful limestone scenery - copses and hollows - to the top of Crete de la Neige. Lovely nearby views although a little hazy beyond the Jura. I looked down to the Valserine and then headed off on a big extension, diagonally running along an excellent path which ultimately led to Lelex although took a surprisingly long time to reach it! After doubling back to the south I emerged at the familiar Valserine road just south of the village and trotted back to the van, driving to Besancon after breakfast. Just under 15k/960m in a relaxed 2.5 hours.

Semnoz via Col des Leschaux

A noisy Bastille day evening with fireworks, coinciding with a heatwave and a France v Spain semi-final wasn't conducive to sleep in Saint Jorioz on the shores of Lac d'Annecy. But I watched the first half on a big screen in the neighbouring village and actually slept quite well after the festivities ended and the temperatures eased a little. It was nice to be able to stroll to the patisserie for a proper coffee and pastry in the morning before heading off along the superb 'voie verte' towards Sevrier in the Annecy direction. Here, I started climbing right from the lakeside up the very gentle slopes of the Col des Leschaux. This was perfection, an easy but long climb dictating a pleasant relaxed rhythm. It heads gently south on a lovely quiet road, remaining at a steady 4% throughout. The col is at a crossroads in Leschaux village, and after a gel I took the Semnoz road up hairpins to the west. This is, as expected, a complete contrast - more like a standard Alpine climb. Much steeper, much harder from the start. But the hairpins are very long and the gradient was still manageable, and I was feeling reasonably good. Dark clouds were gathering to the south, as predicted, and this added a slight sense of urgency as I certainly didn't want to be caught on top of Semnoz in a storm. They soon dissipated, and the hairpins ended too as the road heads north up gentler slopes to a final steep climax on the open meadows of the summit. Lovely climb: I believe the TdF has been up it just a few times and perhaps only from Annecy, which was the way I now descended. Although as cautious as ever, this was wonderful and I did get some speed up on the gentler slopes towards the bottom. It emerges, quite suddenly, close to the centre of Annecy which is obviously a very stark contrast! I ambled in to the famous view of the old town from Quai de Vicenza but it was incredibly busy so I headed towards the lakeside pretty quickly. Here, I picked up the wonderful voie verte immediately. Although also very busy, this was a perfect route back to the van. I decided to extend the day though, so had lunch near Saint Jorioz at a cafe actually on the cycle path. Thus fortified, I had plans to extend perhaps to Albertville or the Forclaz and felt great along the lakeside to Duingt. However, black clouds had now gathered in earnest at the southern end of the lake and very quickly gathered themselves into a very sudden and very violent storm. All hell broke loose for a while, with whirlwinds whipping up dust and loud thunderclaps. I sprinted back to the van which I reached just in time (albeit a little wet) after 68k/1300m. Within a few minutes it had passed but I was changed and driving north by then!

Aiguille d'Epaisseur

Peaks: Aiguille d'Epaisseur (3230m)

Area: Massif des Arves, France

The basic concept of the trip was set in stone: to do something worthwhile and interesting each day by alternating cycling and big mountain outings. But that involves a very fine balance: if you are to avoid a rest day, and the weather remains good, you have to be careful not to overcook things. I like to think this is where being 56 years old with nearly 40 years of experience comes in handy! So today I wanted to get among the high Alps, and had a few ideas like the Grand Galibier and others, but the Arves massif was new terrain for me and this option emerged as the front-runner, a stress-free 'randonneur' option. I slept well to the sound of the river near the hamlet (just an inn really) of Bonnenuit, aptly named given my good night's sleep. I crossed the torrent des aiguilles which comes down the tight valley I was hoping to explore, then headed up to the first objective, three beautiful original Alpine chalets. Here, the view up the valley starts to reveal itself. At Les Huiles, another chalet, the stunning three peaks become clear ahead, the central Aiguille particularly impressive. The valley is very well defined and I soon saw the hut nested on the lower slopes of the Epaisseur. I was up in good time (40 minutes or so) and there was a water source. I had, however, forgotten to pack food! That was a bit of an issue, as the slog starts immediately after leaving the hut heading broadly north-west. At certain points I did feel close to overcooking it (after the rigours of the last few days) and needed to rest occasionally. The meadows gave way to a rockier upper section where I started to feel pretty good again, and the last part is a more clearly defined ridge. The view was stunning: looking straight across to the three main Arves peaks, and across to the Meije and the Barre des Ecrins to the south. But the vertical interval had been substantial, 1600m, so I was depleted by the time I got back to the hut. I immediately ordered an 'aiguilles' omelette, served with local beaufort cheese and potatoes, and devoured it on the delightful terrace of the refuge, only later finding they only took cash. This small problem was overcome with an envelope - I later deposited the money with the artisan butcher in Valloire! A very enjoyable stroll back down the valley to the van (16k/1600m) where I freshened up with an invigorating river bath before driving to Lac d'Annecy with the heat building dramatically.

Galibier-Telegraph ride

It had to be the Galibier today. I did it in 2011, but from the shorter, easier side. One of my main objectives this trip was to do it in full from Valloire, or perhaps from the lower valley. In the end I went for a compromise, partly because my van camp was on top of the Col de Telegraph to escape the heat. After a quick breakfast, I warmed up with the easy descent from the Telegraph to Valloire and then got to work on the long climb up the Galibier. This is steep out of the village itself, an epicentre of global cycling, but then the angle eases for the distinctive first section along the valley of the Valloirette river. I was feeling reasonably good and greatly enjoying the new scenery unfolding, particularly the Arves massif to the right, which you can't properly see but which started giving me ideas for tomorrow! Ahead the road just drags up, mostly fairly straight but with the looming headwall gradually giving an indication of what is in store. Then Plan Lachat is reached and the alpine meadows suddenly give way to a right turn and vicious kick upwards as the angle and character of the climb changes completely. From here, the Grand Galibier blocks the valley and the road heads up a series of hairpins while the col becomes visible high on the right for the first time. I was still feeling quite good, and loving the TdF ambience as ever, with each kilometre marked. Above, a statue of Pantani and wonderful high mountain views all around (some of the peaks are very accessible from here). At the top of the hairpins the route kinks left and embarks on a very long but fairly gentle uphill drag below Le Rabel, on which I felt good although it was beginning to get quite hot. I passed a few people on the final hairpins and had a quick chat with a chap from Dorset as we reached the refuge below the summit. At this point, one kilometre from the top, route barree! A sense of disbelief among the cyclists, of which there is a constant stream. There was nothing for it but to enact 'plan b' - through the tunnel (cyclists banned) to do the last bit from the Lauteret side I'd done all those years ago. We waited for the green light, then 'allez' through the 300m tunnel and into the incredible scenery and bright sunshine on the other side (which in many ways is more spectacular despite being shorter and easier). I did the last km with the Dorset rider and we took photos on the col, a shrine of cycling and a mythical spot. It was misty when I was here in 2011. Then it was down and back through the tunnel before the long but restful descent to Valloire (going around half the speed of Pidcock's famous descent). I had an energy bar then felt great for the reascent to the Col du Telegraph, deciding there and then not to stop at the van but to descent all the way to St Maurice du Maurienne. I had a panini and drink and then embarked on the full climb up the Telegraph, now at low altitude and in the full midday sunshine. This quickly became fairly desperate and I really struggled. The surface is not great initially, it is quite busy and also quite steep and despite its reputation as the Galibier's barely relevant little brother it really hit me hard. After about 5k I was resting after every mile or so and ran out of water fairly quickly. Still, a memorable day: over 70k and 2250m or so of elevation.

Pointe des Aravis

Peaks: Pointe des Aravis (2325m)

Route: Villet-Pollard VF4C/D+, West Ridge

Area: Chaine des Aravis, France

It's been a long time since I last did a full-length Via Ferrata but I thought it would be a good 'active rest day' option when I noticed this route when cycling up the Aravis yesterday (in the same way that I used to alternate cragging with mountaineering). Technology has moved on since Tim and I did some of the most famous Dolomite VFs in the 1990s - you don't just clip a couple of slings nowadays! I hired the lanyard for a tenner in St Jean after the ride, then drove to a superb campsite in the car park used for the route, near the top of the col. After another thunderstorm it was a delightfully cool night (lovely sunset) and I headed out refreshed quite early in the morning. Not early enough, as it happened, as a large guided party was just setting out on the route when I arrived! The guide showed me a way I could get ahead of them and this worked well, just a few minutes and up a short scramble to the first proper section, all of which were named which was a nice touch (the route was straightforward and very well equipped, but 700m long). Donjon des 2 niches turned out to be a steep corner, and after a few more sections an escape was possible. I was stuck behind another party so briefly considered this but decided to return and was glad I did as then came the mur du bon geste, a superb rising traverse to a steep section. This was followed by a bridge suspended over a big drop, then up to the slabby dalle aux lapiaz where I dispensed with the ironmongery and climbed the rough limestone. Finally, the angle relented and the traversee des jardiniers continued the line along a large horizontal break. In fact, the entire line was less contrived than some via ferratas, as it was really a natural rising traverse up the south face of the Borderan. The escape was easy and after a short break I moved across to look for any kind of continuation path up the obvious west ridge coming down from the main peak. Given the desirability of a rest day, I should probably just have descended and relaxed, but the ridge was so appealing and the weather so wonderful that I continued. After the storm, the clarity was extraordinary with fabulous views across the col to the Dent du Chatelet and its neighbours. I was tired for the steep and narrow initialy path but this led to the ridge (steep to the right, wooded to the left). At a little spur, it traversed left to gain a huge area of slabs very reminiscent of Carnedd y Filiast. They were gentle but the best line across wasn't overly obvious. I went for a rising break (upright, they were very shallow) to round a little crag and make my way up steep grass to the ridge. The Pointe des Aravis itself is just a bump on the ridge, a spur really. The main peak was the Aiguille de Borderan but at this point, running out of water and energy, I made the sensible decision to call it a day with a view to keeping things going. Indeed, the Galibier was on the agenda for tomorrow! It was also getting very hot (the VF had been in the shade thank goodness). I descended back to the ferrata and easily located the descent path which actually took longer than I'd expected.

Col des Aravis-Croix Fry

A double TdF col day is usually pretty tough. This wasn't, partly I suspect because of the direction I took them in. The only price to be paid was an awful finish up the very busy main valley road from Thones. After a night spent high above the village, I started from St Jean de Sixt around 8ish and adopted a nice sustainable rhythm for the Col des Aravis. This is a major link through the Alps and a frequently used Tour col. It is quite gentle, with steady 6% gradients often giving way to even shallower slopes, and as such is really enjoyable especially quite early on a Saturday before the traffic. Through La Clusaz via a giant hairpin and then the valley of Le Nom opens out with tremendous views up the limestone walls of the Pointe des Aravis (which I would visit tomorrow) on the left and the spires of the Dent du Chatalet and its neighbours on the right. A series of hairpins leads up to the top of the Aravis - just under 40 minutes from St Jean so not too terrible. The usual TdF ambience at the col, beautiful meadows and jagged peaks beyond: Mont Blanc in the distance. I then descended to the road junction above La Clusaz which gives access to the Col du Croix Fry from the east. This is by far the easiest side up the Croix Fry and is very quiet although the surface is a tad grippy. It still required a bit of an effort at times though, and led to superb new views over Manigod and Les Clefs. It was clouding over, and thunderstorms were forecast, so I didn't hang around, taking my usual hyper-cautious approach to the very long and winding descent (hundreds of cyclists coming up from Thones). Multiple hairpins before the gradient eases down to Thones. Then came the worst riding of the entire trip and indeed probably the most unpleasant experienc of the entire trip. The unexpectedly hard drag up the valley from Thones via Les Villards. This went on for a long time, and the sun came out immediately after leaving Thones making it very hot indeed. It was also very busy with cars just before lunch on a Saturday, not nice at all. I did a little extension to Le Grand Bornand before calling it a day after 50k/1300m. Just as well, as a thunderstorm did indeed hit an hour or two later, making me glad I hadn't included the Col du Colombier. Instead, I sensibly had a bath in the river and retired for Tartiflette in Le Grand Bornand!

Pointe Percee

Peaks: Pointe Percee (2753m)

Routes: Cheminee des Sallanches (II), West Flank Voie Normale (I)

Area: Chaine des Aravis, France

The highest peak in the Aravis chain, this seemed to fit the solo bill perfectly when I was researching possibilities for the final part of this trip. After dropping the family off at the airport, I drove to the Col des Annes where I spent a comfortable night away from yet another heatwave building lower down. Percee is quite spectacular from most angles, a spire of rock, although as is often the case this is a little misleading. From below, I was convinced the normal route went up the screes to the right of the peak and set off just before 7am after a light breakfast heading towards the refuge (Gramusset). This climbs up to a little ridge, a neck between two valleys. This is the Tete des Annes at 1869m. It then climbs to another little subpeak, the Pointe des Delevrets before it becomes steeper and more rocky (polished limestone) as it moves east towards the hut. From here, it seemed so obvious to me that it went up the cwm towards the Col des Verts that I didn't check the route, only discovering half way up that the voie normale actually went up a complex route on the West Flank, the other side of the obvious West ridge that was now to my left! However, in my research I had already considered going up via the Cheminee des Sallanches and it was obvious that this was the route I was now committed to so I carried on up to the Col des Verts via steep scree. The col was indeed grassy on the other side, but steep and fairly exposed. I moved left towards the bulk of Pointe Percee which is a wall of rock from here. Some ledges gained a narrow crest and then the start of the Cheminee des Sallanches. The first section is the hardest, perhaps a touch of grade III, up a steepish shallow chimney. It was good fun, and not troubling (and there were people above) so I continued, trending left over a mini-ridge into a shallow basin. Across this and then more steeply up short walls giving really enjoyable scrambling, not exposed. It then trended right towards another chimney which was slightly awkward before more scrambling joined the normal route at the top of the West Flank. This moves up to an exposed ridge and final scramble to the top - absolutely superb, strange but very lucky that my 'mistake' made the whole day much better and far more pleasing. Tremendous views along the Aravis chain all the way to the Col des Aravis I hoped to cycle up tomorrow. I descended back to the top of the West Flank and descended the normal route, which was well marked but complex and surprisingly involved, weaving through this very rocky face (presumably why I originally assumed it wasn't the way). It was all very enjoyable though, I wore my helmet as a precaution against loose stones but there were no issues and I eventually gained a snowfield and then scree run to the limestone pavement that is immediately above the hut. I had a break at the hut and was then prevented from leaving by a helicopter making several runs from the valley below. Eventually I was allowed to descend and did so enjoyably, trying to save energy where I could - 10k/1200m/3 hours. At the Col des Annes, I stayed to enjoy the cool weather, refuelling with an assiette savoyard of ham and reblochon from the farm 50 metres away, along with a dry gateaux Savoie.

Dent du Vaulion

Peaks: Dent du Vaulion (1483m)

Area: Lac du Joux, Switzerland

Our hillwalks had to fulfil certain criteria this week: the ladies needed a swimming lake and somewhere to have lunch. So it was over the border again to the little town of Le Pont on the shores of Lac du Joux. All very pretty and stereotypically Swiss, and M and I started off in quite hot weather from the lakeside. The Dent is a very obvious landmark, steep on one side as its name suggests, but very gentle from the other. Our route contoured up past an art deco hotel to farmland and then nice tracks through shady woodland to eventually gain a minor road. This was a bit unfortunate, as cars can get up here to a fairly high-end refuge, but the walk and general ambience was so delightful it didn't really matter. We plodded up to the summit for brilliant views of the distant (slightly hazy) Alps and Lac du Joux deep blue directly below, framed by the rest of the Jura range.We took a more direct descent, with the lake directly in front, back to Le Pont. Alpine meadows, cows and farms, interspersed with woodland.

Valserine ride

The Tour is coming down this valley in two weeks time, so I went for an early morning 45k pootle down the valley towards Valserhone. It really is a beautiful place, gently descending through Lelex to Chezery-Forens. The valley changes character from arable and partially wooded to something close to a gorge lower down, with waterfalls and the river quickening pace. At Chezery, I started the climb up to the Col du Menthieres, but quickly realised it would have taken too long so after steep initial slopes I turned off for Rosset and then climbed back up the valley. This is known as the Lelex Monts-Jura climb and it is pretty gentle but it does drag on, almost all the way back to Mijoux.

Grand Montrond

Peaks: Petit Montrond, Grand Montrond (1614m)

Area: Haut Jura, France

The main Jura hills loomed above Mijoux, and although easier to access from the Faucille, it seemed rude not to get onto them from our accommodation. So Kate and I set out on a pleasant walk initially, for around 2k up the Sentier des Arts until Kate turned back and I broke into a gentle jog along the Route Royale to gain the col. From here the route to the mountains doubles back and becomes hard to follow, primarily because there are tracks, trails and paths everywhere. So choosing the right one was tricky although eventually I found my way up the Petit Montrond and then the main ridge path which continues all the way to Le Reculet and beyond. The route along the broad crest was superb, great views down to Geneva and across to Mont Blanc. From Grand Montrond I descended the Chemin d'Amont to the col then retraced steps back to our apartment just under two hours after leaving. Refuelled with Bleu du Gex crepes and a swim in the Lac du Lamoura.

Haut Jura sportive route (65k)

This was a little bit cheeky, but there was an organised sportive taking place across the Haute Jura today. It would have taken me all day to do it properly, and we had a family Geneva trip planned, so instead I just did a version of the short 65k route by climbing the hairpins from Mijoux (informally known as the Col de Mijoux) and then joining the marked route at Lajoux. It was early, I was well before the event, but the signage was up and took me through some exquisite scenery, the epitome of the Jura. It took the Route de la Simmard to Bellecombe, beautiful farmland, woods and views of the high Jura hills. The roads were almost completely empty, and then became even quieter through the lovely gorge of the Bief des Parres. At La Sechere the views opened out to the west over the main Flumen valley to Septmoncel and St Claude. A fast descent led to a sharp turn and very minor road (which I would never have found) to Laisia. All these places were tiny hamlets. I then got to more familiar terrain around Lamoura and the main Faucille/Geneva road (still fairly quiet) up to the Swiss border at La Cure. This climbs, hugging the border until the gentle descent down the Valserine back to Mijoux. This was so fast and so rideable that even I went pretty quickly on it (5 miles in 12 minutes).

La Goulette climbing

Crag: La Goulette (Jura)

Routes: La Bise (f4:led), Le Sonaillard (f4:sec), L'Aubarete (f4:led)

A short session with Morgan on then gentle crag of La Goulette, nestled in the woods near the final hairpin below the Col de Mijoux. It would have been perfect were it not for the fact that I forgot the screwgates despite packing the rest of the climbing kit! Anyway, the routes were all on slabby pocketed limestone and reminded me how much I enjoy easy French sports climbing. It would have been nice to tick the crag but not feasible. Earlier on I did an excellent loop of Mijoux tracks and small roads around the Valserine, a great run and my deformed heel felt OK. After the crag, we had an excellent lunch at Feodor and then a nice short circular family hike from Lajoux.

Le Noirmont

Peaks: Le Noirmont (1567m), Le Noirmont des Francais (1547m)

Area: La Cure, Switzerland

Morgan was keen to get out for a proper mountain hike and, given our location on the border, to do something across that border. La Cure has a traditional customs post and we parked just beyond it after dropping the ladies off at the lake. A nice path led to a junction and then a steeper track up to broken woodland and limestone crags around the summit of Le Noirmont. The views were slightly hazy but we could see across Lake Geneva to the Alps and the immediate environs were very attractive: the other Jura hills in a nice crest over to the Grand Montrond and the rest of the gently rolling landscape across the French border. The route continued through copses and across the head of a lovely valley up to the next summit which we shared with two other groups (despite its name it is also in Switzerland). Superb views as we descended the broad ridge above a shallow valley called the Croux des Croue. Alpine meadows, cows, the full cliche. We contoured below the Cret des Danses and then headed south to complete a very pleasant 14k loop back to La Cure. An ideal first outing and we both enjoyed it.    

Mijoux-Faucille-Geneva suburbs

Not the first time I have been up the Col de la Faucille - I think I also went up via the busy main road 15 years ago. It is a key pass linking the tranquil Jura with the much busier and more densely populated Geneva area. After checking in to our accommodation in Mijoux I had to engage in over 10k of frantic back-and-forth running to sort out a major logistical problem with the car hire caused by Geneva airport's border location! Eventually we worked it out and I drove the family over the col and down to Mijoux, meaning I had to pick the van up this morning from the French border town of Fernay-Voltaire. Luckily this was an easy and delightful ride in the morning sunshine. The climb from Mijoux take a quiet side road and only requires about 400m of elevation gain to the main road and fast riding to the col. Stunning view of Mont Blanc above Lake Geneva in perfect clarity before the superb descent (albeit with my usual damaging caution) down to Gex. After this a series of suburbs all the way to the border, all gently inclining downhill allowing for fast progress - 75 minutes from Mijoux to the van.

Grand Ballon ride

Way back in 2011 I did Alpe d'Huez in torrential rain and have never forgotten the experience, virtually hypothermic by the time I got back down. This was similar, albeit not as bad because I packed more sensibly. I camped a little way up the climb itself above Uffoltz, and there was a big thunderstorm in the early evening. I felt it was unlikely that I'd be able to do it the next day, but when I woke there seemed to be an early weather window - and since I was in position before 7am I went for it. It's a fairly big climb which the Tour is taking in two weeks time. Relatively kind gradients initially, as the wooded slopes weave up to a gentle section at the Hartmannswillerkopf, sight of a major WWI battle. Then comes a descent to the Col Amic, a tad annoying, and the weather was beginning to look threatening. Big views open out in all directions, with black clouds gathering to the south. There was no time to waste but the climb gets steeper after the col and even has a couple of cobbled sections. All good though, like a mini-Ventoux in a way, such a notable and isolated mountain. I got to the summit just as the rain started and by the time I'd descended back to the Col Amic it was torrential. I obviously had to climb back out of the other side and quickly became soaked, rendering the rest pretty unpleasant - in these conditions you'll get cold whatever you do, and I was shivering by the time I got back to the van.

Rainkopf

Peaks: Rothenbachkopf, Rainkopf

Area: Vosges, France

After lunch and that enormous cheese intake, I had some spare energy so did these two hills directly from the car park. All quite gentle, watching shower clouds track across the landscape and enjoying the views down the Fecht valley towards Mittlach. A contouring path led in a line above the Route des Cretes to a col between the two hills - after which I went up the Rothenbachkopf for big views and then stuck to the broad ridge path over the Rainkopf back to the car. 

Vosges TdF cols

The first biggish ride of the trip, somewhat strangely starting from the top of the Col de la Schlucht. There was a good reason for this, as it was the perfect place for an overnight van camp in cooler temperatures, and it allowed me to start out along the famous Route des Cretes, a superb wartime road along the spine of the Vosges hills. This gave an easy start in perfect weather, blue skies, warm but not hot. Fabulous views to the hills I did yesterday like the Hohneck, and then down to the lakes and valleys below. It was undulating but relaxing until I took the side road to the Col de Breitfirst. This is followed by the Col de Platzerwassel. All of these names reflect the fascinating Alsace blend of two cultures, and the riding, atmosphere and scenery were all superb as I started the descent. This was steep and hairpinned but I went reasonably well by my abysmal descending standards, and really enjoyed it. It eases off towards a series of villages like Sondenach and Metzeral and then enters lovely Munster where I'd been the afternoon before. The long final climb back to the Col de la Schlucht, the main business of the day really, starts in town and heads gently to Stosswihr before the long series of hairpins up the col. This was great training, never too hard at a steady 6%, but quite long with around 750m elevation gain. The road is a little busy but my early start helped and I quite enjoyed it. I added a little bit to the end, on the high road to Lac Blanc but was still conscious of not overdoing it (especially with rain and thunder forecast) so kept it to a 65k/1234m day and retired for lunch to the stupendous Auberge Firsstart near the Hohneck where I had roigabrageldi and an incredible local cheese platter with a glass of Edelzwicker.

Hohneck via Sentier des Roches

Peaks: Petit Hohneck, Hohneck, Haute de Falimont

Area: Vosges, France

The brutal heatwave dissipated with thunderstorms overnight and it was cooler and drizzly as I left the motel and had breakfast at a nearby patisserie to avoid Strasbourg's rush hour. My target was the Col de la Schlucht but this was a surprisingly long drive through lots of pretty Alsatian villages. The col was a great place, with dozens of cycling and mountain options open to me, all very tempting. My basic concept this trip was to alternate bike outings with foot outings, so embarked on the locally famous Sentier des Roches from Schlucht. This was great, a bit like a poor man's Via Ferrata! It takes a narrow and almost level footpath below the escarpment and is a little exposed in a few places. It was continually interesting, weaving between rock towers and taking little rock walls via some ironmongery. It eventually gives way to more open ground at a surprisingly impressive open cwm containing the Hundmissbach stream, the Martinswand crag, and a little hut (cash only). The route then climbs quite steeply to a col and the Schaeferthal. Then came open moorland to the top of the Petit Hohneck, like a British moorland top, and views down the big valley leading to Munster (La Fecht?). Then came a further loop, nicely runnable, to a welcome spring and then a further climb up to the Hohneck, the area's principle summit (which is actually driveable). A further trot then led to the lip of the cwm I'd been below earlier, and a good view of what i took to be the Martinswand crags. A final trot down through the woods led back to the col and refuelling on the full Alsatian, tomme au poivre, salad alsacienne, kassler fume with spatzle and a dark licorne beer.  

Hohenbaden ride

After a hellish night in Trier, record breaking heat making sleep impossible, this was a heavily compromised day on the edge of the Black Forest. My original plans were far more ambitious but I contented myself with my first return to Baden Baden since 1992, climbing from the town up to Hohenbaden Castle (original home of the margraves of Baden) which felt like useful Alpine training in the heat. After returning to town I pedalled along the tranquil Lichtental for a while before returning to the car in Oos and driving towards a merciful aircon motel room north of Strasbourg, refuelling in Alsatian style on tarte flambee with munster cheese.

Three countries ride/Vaalserberg

A unique and fascinating ride from Aachen taking in three countries as well as the Netherlands highpoint at the Vaalserberg. A great way to start the big trip, albeit compromised by the heatwave which meant I had to cut it short without properly engaging with the Dutch Limburg climbs which feature in the Amstel Gold spring classic. After the parkrun, I moved the van to the university and then cycled along to Vaals and the Dutch border. The climb up the Vaalserberg starts in town, through some steep streets to wooded hairpins and nice gentle climbing up to the famous three countries stone marking the border between Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands. I couldn't help reflecting that I would soon be on much bigger climbs, like the Galibier! After the stone, the route dropped into Belgium - I assume Wallonia although some of the names were Flemish. They were about to play a world cup match so there were lots of flags and football shirts, in fact Gemmenich was probably the most patriotic Belgian town I've ever seen! After some gentle riding I passed north then east into the Netherlands and ended up on the Camerlig, which it turns out is considered the hardest climb in the country. It was now maximum temperature, close to 40c, so this was hard work and I was glad just to cycle down to Aachen after less than 40k, conscious of not burning too many energy matches at the start of the trip. The temperatures finally rose to 41.5c breaking the all-time German record.

Lousberg parkrun

'Race': Lousberg parkrun (Aachen)

Time/Position: 21.19 (4th from 41)

After two hours of post-ferry van sleep in a Belgian service station, and with temperatures already above 30c, a rather tricky route was probably the last thing I needed! It was the first part of my 24 day continental van trip, however, and as such an essential part of the plan. Almost all the neighbouring parkruns (including Tapijn, the one I planned to do) had been cancelled due to the extreme heatwave but this one is a shaded loop around the forested hill above Aachen so went ahead. It reminded me a little of Wepre with two hilly laps, a long drag initially through the trees before a narrow, rooty descent. One of my slowest ever parkrun times but excusable in the circumstances!

Cwm Cneifion scrambles

Peaks: Glyder Fach

Area: Glyderau, Eryri

All sorts of heat warnings are currently in place and it was indeed very hot and humid as I skirted Idwal in glorious, surprisingly clear conditions. I took the second path up the steep slopes towards the classic hanging valley of Cneifion. This eventually contours right towards Suicide Wall and therefore means that it included the wet top section of East Wall Gully, some nice scrambling. It didn't feel desperately hot but I was sweating like a pig emerging into the cwm, always a great place to be. A short amble led below the Cneifion Arete to the very obscure line of Pinnacle Crest. This is really just a collection of ribs on the side of the gully, but I really enjoyed it, probably a reflection of my current activity rather than intrinsic quality. It is always escapeable, and a little loose, but the sharp ribs are pleasing and rise to a more impressive top section. This gives way to a surprise, a tiny col with some really impressive rock architecture framing the view to Pen yr Ole Wen. The onward route is not obvious, but the side wall on the right actually gives a bit more easy scrambling up to join the Gribin for its scrambly top section. I was exhausted, for whatever reason, and dehydrated despite the fact that it was clouding over. I ploughed across the Glyder plateau and then down the screes to Bwlch Tryfan. I had expected this day to break my personal Eryri heat record but I'm pretty sure I've been on the tops in even warmer weather in the past.

Chester parkrun

'Race': Chester parkrun

Time/position: 20.03 (7th from 414)

The start of another heatwave and an open day at the university so I took the opportunity to do Chester for the first time in a while. It is the parkrun I've done most, but not since I turned 55. As a result I was surprised to see a variation on the old summer course, heading upwards towards the hospital before starting the two laps. It was pretty hot already and I couldn't hold any kind of pace (first age-graded though). Last night I had done another edition of John Morris's Green Man mystery tour with Huw from Bwlch Penbarras. We seemed to make better route choices than I did last year and had covered less than 5k by the time we found the Green Man!

Peckforton 50m loop

Flatter and longer this morning, although I felt a little tired in windier than anticipated conditions. It is all very simple from home to Rossett and Holt, and this continues through all the lovely Cheshire villages to the hard-to-cross Whitchurch Road. From here, more lovely quiet lanes give a gradual climb to Beeston followed by the undulating road on the other side of the Peckforton Hills to Bickerton and then Malpas into a headwind. After lunch in Malpas, I headed to Bangor on Dee and then home via Wrexham industrial estate. I did a version of this loop as a solo 50 mile ultra run at the height of lockdown: still one of the most memorable things I've ever done despite the fact that I started and finished at home!

MF TT from DC

My continuing heel issues mean I'm not running much, so when I do it has to count. The Beast race is this evening, a race I have done many times over many years. But I decided it would be unwise, so donned road shoes instead (far more comfortable for the heel) and took a time trial approach to the long (5k) climb up Moel Famau from Llanbedr DC. This is a notoriously steep climb by bike (the feared 'old bwlch') and is obviously pretty tough on foot too! I despatched the full tarmac climb from village to Bwlch Penbarras in 14.42 before immediately embarking on the standard path up to the summit. This took a little longer, 15.41, giving a 30 minute ascent from church to summit, not too bad for an injured old man. After a brief rest enjoying the emerging sunshine, I pelted down the Hotfoot descent in eight minutes before descending the grassy valley to lovely Coed Cadw and Llanbedr Hall. A great lunch in Ruthin followed.

Llangollen 70k loop

Gradually increasing the cycling mileage, trying to replicate steady Alpine climbs where that is vaguely possible. As such, the long ascent from Pontblyddyn to the Horseshoe Pass isn't bad, and I enjoyed it despite the traffic. Superb fast descent to Llangollen and then round to Ruabon where I had a sandwich in milky sunshine. From here it was into Wrexham and then out to the border at Lavister before climbing back home. I backed this up two days later, joining Peter for a Clwydian climbs special, leaving Mold for the long climb up to the Moel Arthur col from Nannerch (ideal). Down into Ruthin for coffee and cake, and then up the gentle climb of the 'Mantel' which runs parallel to the Shelf and was new to me on two weeks I think (although I have run up it I suspect). Back to Mold via Llandegla and Treuddyn.

Bethesda-PyP

The weather has been unsettled recently, which isn't ideal given my urgent need to increase the cycling mileage. I have done a few routes maximising the climbing around Hope Mountain, but the savagely steep, short potholed lanes don't really replicate the demands of the typical Alpine col! This morning's ride didn't either but it still felt a bit more worthwhile. A heavy shower had just cleared as I left Bethesda for the long but nicely gentle haul up to Ogwen Cottage. I have run this in the past, and descended it on a bike, but I can't remember ever cycling it from this direction. It is quick and efficient and I then had a headwind which made the sprint to Capel absolutely superb. Around 34 minutes from Bethesda to Capel, exactly 14 minutes from Ogwen Cottage to Capel: what seems fast to me just isn't by most cyclists standards, and as ever I find the contrast with running to be horribly stark, even given the obvious fact that one is my competitive sport, the other isn't. Anyway, the weather had now cleared to wonderful sunny but blustery conditions and the inevitable headwind hit for Dyffyn Mymbyr, which wasn't much fun as a result. Climbed up to PyP for a mini Alps training session and then enjoyed the always wonderful descent down the Pass. At Llanberis I got onto the Padarn cycling path and then climbed up to Clwt y Bont and Deiniolen via steep obscure lanes through council estates until I was up on the open hill above Mynydd Llandygai with its wonderful views to the Carneddau and Elidir. From here it is another fast descent, although I took the absurdly narrow and overgrown Lon Hafoty in error before finishing up Hen Durnpike back to the car.

Castles Relay (Caernarfon-Penygroes)

Race: Welsh Castles Relay (Stage One - Caernarfon to Penygroes 8m)

Time/Position: 52.42 (19th from 64)

I had the honour of starting things off for Buckley at the Castles relay this year. In three previous participations in this unique event, I had never experienced a Saturday stage before, let alone the actual start, so the ceremony of beginning right in front of the castle before a mini-lap down to the Foryd was a surprise. Then it was straight into the very familiar terrain of the Border League/10k route out along the coast. Muscle memory kicked in and I started off at a modest six minute mile pace along ground I have often run much quicker on. Sadly, even this is too much for me at present and I paid a price later on as soon as the road started to rise towards Llanwnda. Mercifully, the stage had been shortened and so the lack of distance in my legs was brought to a halt at Inigo Jones instead of Penygroes. Just as well as I couldn't run another stride. I was pleased to finish in the top 20 less than a minute behind Tim and was only passed by one despite my pace slowing around Llandwnda, so it wasn't catastrophic - which is also suggested by the fact I am second fastest over 55 for the 8k Strava segment from Caernarfon to Llanwnda. But this still may mark some kind of retirement from competitive running, perhaps not permanently but certainly for a while. I did what I wanted to after turning 55 a year ago and managed to get another year out of my legs despite the insertional achilles injury which I now interpret as the bodywork failing first as a warning to stop pushing the engine!

Llandegla ride

The first real attempt to increase cycling distance this year in advance of my summer trip. Up to Llandegla and then the long descent to Bwlchgwyn then Llay before extending across the border to Pulford and Dodleston. I was a bit time-pushed this morning and there is, obviously, an urgent need to increase the climbing and distance over the next couple of weeks as this was still less than 60k.

Lochnagar quintuple

Peaks: Lochnagar (Cac Carn Beag), Carn a'Choire Bhoidheach, Carn an t-Sagairt Mor, Cairn Bannoch, Broad Cairn

Area: White Mounth

For various reasons I had been saving Lochnagar for a different trip but it was too obvious an objective to avoid on this, my final day of the trip. The forecast was a little mixed again, with low cloud forecast for eastern hills, but I drove to Spittal of Glenmuick via Ballater anyway. This was new territory for me, and I had a superb night's sleep in temperatures that were at least 20c colder than home on the same night. This area of the Mounth lends itself to a running approach, so that's what I intended to do as I started off around 7.30am. However, given my slowing in the hills and the rigours of the last few days, I wasn't sure how I would go. In the event, it went very well despite almost constant clag and no views until the final descent, which really was quite unlucky. This is a 30k circuit over five munros but the terrain is generally kind underfoot and there isn't too much elevation gain (1300m). Unsurprisingly, the route up Lochnagar itself is on a very clear path for most of the way - it skirts Loch Muich and then weaves its way up to an obvious col below Conachcraig. It was then into the mist for a steep section (known as The Ladder) up a well made path which eventually emerged below Meikle Pap at a plateau. Good running west and then north up another steepening to the forepeak before heading out to the true summit (90 mins) which has a rocky top section and was atmospheric in thick mist. This was a real shame though as I had no views of the famous cliffs. The mist threatened to clear but didn't, so I scampered back to the lower peak and then branched off south-west on a good runnable path. This was glorious despite the weather and I was feeling good - the second munro (Boidheach) was an easy out-and-back, after which I continued westwards. A tight stream valley (Allt an da Craobh Bheath) gave me a drink from some giant snowfields and I briefly emerged from the mist with views down to the Dubh Loch. Lovely contouring then led to another detour, slightly longer this time, out to Carn an t-Sagairt Mor. Another clearance as I descended led to some views over Glen Callater to Carn an Tuirc and other hills I had done before. The terrain continued to be runnable (or at least joggable) as the route decisively turns south-eastwards over the final two peaks, which are quite well defined and seem to represent some kind of linguistic boundary. Cairn Bannoch had a nice rocky top and I finally had a semblance of a view at Broad Cairn, the final peak and 16th munro of this short trip. It was grey and gloomy,  but did give me some kind of idea of the broader context. I could see Mount Keen further east, as well as other unfamiliar valleys (to me) like Glen Doll and Glen Clova. The descent from Broad Cairn was surprisingly rocky and awkward initially, but led to a huge track which eventually branched off to a superb gently descending contouring path above Coire Chash. Here, finally, the weather decisively cleared for superb views over the Dubh Loch and its steep valley fringed with crags. All five mountains fringe this valley, at least partially. The path descends all the way to the Loch Muick lakeside and leaves a very long and quite tiring finish along the undulating and sometimes awkward path along the loch. This is probably harder than it would have been to stay high on the plateau for longer, but at a side valley the path becomes a very runnable track. It was now quite warm and very sunny, I passed 50 or so red deer, and got back to the car park 4.20 after setting out on this very enjoyable circuit. I had a bath in the River Muick then drove home, fine after my nourishing nine hours of sleep.

Glen Derry Round (part 2)

Peaks: Beinn a'Chaorainn, Beinn Bhreac

Area: Cairngorms

After yesterday's magnificent trip into the central Cairngorms, this was a little less glamorous and a real contrast in terms of terrain and scenery. I didn't have a particularly good night's sleep in the bothy and set off pretty early as the sun was starting to illuminate the crag at the top of the cwm. An excellent path continues down from Coire Etchtachan into the middle of the larger Glen Derry. As far as I could tell there was no direct route to the pass at the top of the glen (Lairig an Laoigh) so my only option was a longish detour south-east until I could pick up the main Glen Derry path. The pass is a sister to the more famous Lairig Ghru further west, but is less dramatic. Near the top, a steep and indistinct side path begins to climb up Beinn a'Chaorainn. It is intermittent and hard to follow at times, particularly with the early morning sun in my face, but it didn't last all that long and I soon reached the cairn for magnificent views west to the central Cairngorms, last night's bothy a tiny white dot at the bottom of the corrie: the weather was the best of the trip, very clear. Across the valley to the east rose Beinn a'Bhuiridh which I did two years ago. Then came the Moine Bhealaidh, a vast expanse of flat moorland reminiscent of the Pennines which I wasn't looking forward to. It wasn't particularly pleasant but it did at least offer the challenge of trying to pick the best lines through the bog and tussocks. I have done worse though, and I did pick up a path on the far side towards Beinn Bhreac. This becomes much drier and more pleasant as it starts to climb away from the moorland and the summit was a pleasant place with excellent views to Lochnagar and down to Beinn a'Ghlo, perfect clarity throughout. I had a much needed snack before starting the descent which looked very quick and easy but wasn't. At first, easy grassy slopes allow for quick progress down, and this gains a good path, but once it reaches the treeline it becomes boggy. It also took longer to reach Derry Lodge than I'd expected, but the views back up Glen Derry framed by the Caledonian pines were superb. Derry Cairngorm looks particularly good from here, as do all the peaks I had just done. A bigger track eventually comes in from the glen and soon I arrived back at Derry Lodge for the relaxing bike ride back to the Linn of Dee in time for an early lunch.

Glen Derry Round (part 1)

Peaks: Derry Cairngorm, Beinn Mheadhoin

Area: Cairngorms

If the weather had been favourable for this trip, I would have headed north-west to the Fisherfield Forest for some of the remoter Munros. But being in the Cairngorms is a treat in itself and I still had unfinished business. Beinn Mheadhoin in particular is one of the remoter Scottish mountains so I decided to take a leisurely approach and really immerse myself in the heart of the range. As a result, there was no rush this morning: I fuelled up with a full breakfast from the Bothy in Braemar before buying very austere provisions for the trip. My basic plan was the Glen Derry round, which I would have been able to do quite easily in a day, but I thought I would relax instead and have a short stay at the Hutchison Memorial bothy (I had my tent too). Just before midday, after coffee and an extra feed at the Linn of Dee, I set off for Derry Lodge by bike. I did the same two years ago and the scenery here is really beautiful. As ever, the great attraction of the Cairngorms is that its highlights are all hidden from view, you have to make an effort to get to them and that precludes too many people from spoiling it all. In addition, I love the contrast between the Arctic peaks and the gentle lower valleys which are probably closer to the natural biome than most other parts of the UK. Derry Lodge is a great example, all remnants of the Caledonian pine forest. I left my bike and then enjoyed the lovely path through the pines which leads to, again, the closest thing to a natural treeline in the UK, with some montane forest and dwarf trees above. The weather was lovely, blue sky with intermittent cloud, but bigger banks west and north as per the forecast. Above the treeline the path got steep for a while as it rounds the spur Carn Crom but this gives way to beautiful pink granite plateaux and then a contouring path with Derry Caingorm a pleasant cone ahead. Soon the route takes on its high Cairngorm character as it crosses various blasted tundra boulder fields and Ben Macdui and Cairn Toul become visible. A really enjoyable ascent, with a big boulder field leading to the summit. Tremendous views over Glen Luibeg to the high Cairngorms, lots of snow under blue skies. After this the day got even better with a contouring path over to the shoulder below Creagan a'Choire Etchachan and then to the lip of Coire Etchachan itself, an Arctic scene and the real heart of the Cairngorms. This microenvironment at the centre of the range is really precious, and does feel much closer to northern Norway than other parts of Scotland. Loch Etchachan glistened in the sunshine, framed by snowfields and crags, but (after a glissade down a big snowfield) it was far too windy to pitch my tent there so I stowed it for the short slog up Beinn Mheadhoin. This was almost as easy and enjoyable as Derry Cairngorm, through the same pink granite boulderfields and up to the wind blasted plateau at the top, reminiscent of Ben Avon with its granite tors. The SW top has stunning views down to the top of Loch Avon where multiple torrents clatter down between big crags from the Ben Macdui plateau: undoubtedly one of the finest places in the British mountains, and another Arctic scene. The top involves a little scramble up the tor which I had to myself (although there were a few people about on this Bank Holiday Monday). I retraced my steps back to the Etchachan outflow to collect my stuff and then ambled down the rocky path into tight Coire Etchachan, where the tiny Hutchison bothy came into view on a patch of greenery. Behind, the crag which houses some classic rock climbs. I took ownership of one of the two 'beds' in the bothy although it really is tiny. I managed a quick bath in the stream that comes down from Derry Cairngorm and passed a pleasant solo bothy evening with my austere dining options (no stove).

Glen Ey peaks

Peaks: Beinn Iutharn Mhor, Carn Bhac

Area: Mounth, Scotland

A complex weather forecast meant that a lot of thought had to go into my plans for today. I drove over the top road from Pitlochry and slept near the Spittal of Glenshee, but even the Cairngorms looked a bit questionable this morning with black threatening clouds. I was a bit tired too, so eventually settled on these peaks just to the south of the Cairngorms proper, because they offer a relaxed cycling approach and the weather looked distinctly better a little to the south. It proved an excellent choice and, after driving to Inverey some sunshine was already peeking through as I set off on the gravel bike for Glen Ey. This was an absolute delight and a perfect way to stretch the legs after yesterday's exertions. The track up the glen is mostly gentle and leads south above the Ey Burn into the wonderfully open Glen Ey. There was something wonderful about the way the valley curves gently south-east then south-west revealing new scenery. The spur of Creag an Lochain dominates the view but then a hidden upper valley with views up to Iutharn Mhor is revealed, the Ey Burn incredibly placid and gently flowing in the flat valley bottom with a base of soft green moss and breeding oystercatchers. After over 9k of lovely riding, I reached the ruin of Altanour and left my bike to work out the route and the landscape. It looked like I could climb directly up the east ridge of Beinn Iutharn Mhor and to my surprise that turned out to be the case, a narrow path was mostly navigable and led to the steep ridge/nose. This was hard work initially but led to a windy plateau, after which a long haul led out to the curving ridge of the dominant peak, which is more shapely and impressive than the rest of the Mounth. Beinn a'Ghlo impressed to the south and a giant snowfield lent definition to the northern cwm. I recognised other peaks, like Glas Tulaichean, from previous visits although the Cairngorms proper remained gloomy under dark clouds. After a snack I retraced steps above the snowpatch and then descended very steep scree towards Carn Bhac. I must have gone too low here, as it soon became tough going through tussocks and bog, completely pathless until I eventually gained the main route to Carn Bhac. This is a rather dull peak, just the highpoint of a long lateral ridge with lots of white rock on the summit. I didn't hang around and jogged the long but easy and very enjoyable descent down the ridge above Alltan Odhar. The sun came out towards the bottom and it finally became much warmer. By the time I regained the bike it was, for a short while, almost hot - and as the sun lit the valley and multiple chattering streams it was beautiful. I rested a while on soft grass above the Ey Burn at Altanour just taking it all in before getting on my bike for a tremendously enjoyable ride back to Inverey, gently descending the whole way. After bathing in the Dee I parked up at the layby outside Braemar that I'd used exactly two years ago: stunning views across the valley to Derry Cairngorm and Beinn a'Bhuird.

Glen Lyon quadruple

Peaks: Carn Gorm, Meall Garbh, Carn Mairg, Meall na Aighean

Area: Glen Lyon, Perthshire

There are still plenty of corners of Scotland that I've never been to, and Glen Lyon is one, despite its accessibility. It is beautiful, perhaps more reminiscent of Nant Gwynant or parts of the Lakes than the Highlands: small farms, woodland and pastoral, quite gentle scenery. On one side rises Ben Lawers (which I did from the Loch Tay side a few years ago), but on the other is this perfect circular ridge which rises to four Munros. After the parkrun, I had some sandwiches in the pretty Sma' Glen during the drive north to Aberfeldy, then wound my way round to Invervar in the middle of Glen Lyon. It was late morning at the start of the Bank Holiday weekend, and I couldn't park, so had to find another place which ended up being 2k further east. This made a long outing even longer, and it was quite a long initial haul from the village along the Invervar burn to take a broad ridge up Carn Gorm. The weather was threatening, a bit dark and gloomy, and the most notable feature was the sharp subpeak of An Sgorr rising above the Allt na Lairige. A final sharp rise led to a cold Carn Gorm with great views over Glen Lyon to Ben Lawers. The ridge then turns north and east and felt like the Carneddau. It is broad but quite well defined, with big (though very grey and compromised) views down to Loch Rannoch and over to Schiehallion, always such a notable feature of the landscape. Meall Garbh wasn't an overly impressive summit, but it was all quite pleasant. A very windy subpeak gave even better. views north and it remained cold all the way across to the rockier and more interesting peak of Carn Mairg, clearly the dominant mountain of the group. Really quite cold (as Kate baked in 30c at home!) and I finally found a water source below the very steep initial descent. I had a break and snack here, which was good as I was beginning to wilt a little (and perhaps even mildly regret the morning parkrun). A broad col and luckily not too much reascent to gain a big snowpatch and then the final Munro of Meall na Aighean, which is set back a bit from the main ridgeline. A wonderful descent freshened me up and was hugely enjoyable down a vague southwest ridge high above the Coire a'Chearcaill. Beautiful views to Lawers and Glen Lyon, which was pretty as a picture from these slopes with dramatic shades of grey in the sky. I couldn't complain too much, however, as all four peaks were below the cloudbase and it was a great (dry!) circuit. But at 22k and almost 1500m of elevation, it was a big 4 hour+ outing after a 19 minute parkrun in the morning. Still, four Munros and a V55 age group course record in the same day still seems worth recording. I replaced the calories with fish and chips in Aberfeldy then tried to work out the best plan of action given the 'mixed' weather forecast.

Crieff parkrun

'Race': Lady Mary's Walk parkrun (Crieff)

Time/Position: 19.41 (3rd from 141)

This delightful parkrun has only been going a few weeks, so the V55 course record I set wasn't very impressive. That said, the first few runners were either sent the wrong way, or didn't listen to the instructions (!) which meant we covered a bit more ground than we needed to on the route, which makes two return laps along the sun-dappled banks of the River Earn. It was really pleasant, but we turned too early without a marshall so had to make up the course length, and this even included a stop and brief conversation with the race organiser! Perhaps not the wisest decision with a four Munro circuit planned in the afternoon, but on the other hand it's nice I can still do that a few days before my 56th birthday!

Ben Chonzie

Peaks: Ben Chonzie

Area: Perthshire, Scotland

This area seems to my outsiders eyes to be a classic transition zone, the edge of the Highlands. It wasn't much more than a five hour drive to Crieff, which I last visited 15 years ago when the OMM took place in the more obscure corners of this range. Myself and Huw had a great weekend then, and a top 20 finish if memory serves (2nd vet team) but our route choices avoided the summit of Chonzie. Today, this was just an easy aperitif for my second Highlands trip of the year, anticipating being forced 'east' due to fronts hitting the north-west (and a heatwave elsewhere in the UK). I drove up Glen Turret to the loch, where I parked before setting off on the gravel bike along its banks. This track needs a mountain bike really, so it was hard work in places, not helped by glowering skies and drizzle. I left the bike above Lochan Uaine, which is fringed by steeper slopes giving this cwm more of a Highland character. It is an easy plod west to a breach in the headwall, wet and slimy in places. It is all very easy, and led to a misty col before the route kinks southwest and leads quite smoothly to the summit. A little drizzle and no views, so I trotted down intent on saving as much energy as possible. Above the col, the mist cleared a bit and I did get some views to Glen Almond and points west, which was definitely where the action took place on that 2011 OMM (in fact the overnight camp was in Glen Almond). The ride back along the track was a little easier and the weather did begin the clear a little. After gourmet pasta at the van, I strolled around birdwatching which - incredibly - yielded a white-tailed eagle. No point moving on at this stage, so I spent the night at Loch Turret, sleeping for nearly 10 peaceful hours!

Craig Nant Dulas

Crag: Craig Nant Dulas

Routes: Mr Drab (f5b:led), Ten not Twelve (f5c:sec), The Free Speech Union (f5c:led), What's On (f6a:sec), Master of Disguise (f5b:led)

Not exactly Provence, but a newly bolted microcrag nestled in the valley opposite Craig y Forwyn. It is a very nice sheltered situation, and did give a couple of pleasant little routes. I led the obvious main corner at a mild and very short VS. Peter then led the route to its right which had one tricky pull over a bulge. I then enjoyed the 5c up a right facing corner, although that might reflect the fact that I haven't done much climbing in recent years, rather than any inherent qualities! Moderately steep moves on some lovely holds, quite sharp by local limestone standards. It then continues for a little while up the wall, and you just have to imagine it going on for a bit longer. The 6a to its right was also good with some steep but positive wall climbing, and these two seemed the best routes on the crag at first glance. The slanting leftwards corner left of 'Mr Drab' may have been an f4 as it was no more than S.