Ben A'an - I'll be back

Ben A'an in the Trossachs has been on my to-do list for quite a while. I drove past it for many years whilst taking day tours to Loch Lomond, but didn't appreciate until recently how renowned it is for its fantastic views.

As I'm not conquering Munros at all these days (hope to rectify this soon), smaller hills are far more appealing. I do worry about my fitness but I suppose the more I do, the fitter I'll be for Munros. I know I am waiting for the snow to go before I get out there again, but last year life got in the way and I didn't manage another Munro after Meall Ghaordaidh in March.

A plan came together for an early February family get-together and walk, and Ben A'an was on the cards. The forecast was for Sunday to be the best day of the week, with a clear afternoon. Unfortunately when we arrived at the carpark at the start of the walk, snow was falling fairly heavily and the cloud was sitting low. Surely it would be silly to go up a hill known for its views on a day there would be none?

We waited for the rest of the group to arrive, and by the time they did the snow had stopped, and it was actually looking feasible that we could get up the hill.

Ben A'an doesnt mess you about - it's straight up from the start. First on a forestry track, then on stone steps. Sadly there is a lot of deforestation here which isn't easy on the eye.

 

The path evens out in places, giving some relief for the legs. We were getting some glimpses of views occasionally, and also spotted the summit of Ben A'an up ahead. It looked like a fair pull up, but short and sharp at least.

 

We took our time, watched our step on the slippy path, and soon we were approaching the top.

 

It was a great feeling to get there, and surprisingly there were views! Not extensive views - we couldn't see Ben Venue or Ben Lomond, but Loch Katrine was visible. I was pleased we could see something, but I left with a nagging feeling that I'd have to go back on a clear day.

 

 

After a wee bit of time on the summit, and toasting Elliot, we began our descent. It was quite slippy, and Uncle Colin gave us all a fright when he tried to take the speedy route down, but thankfully we made it in one piece back to the car park - and more importantly a short distance back to Callander for sustenance.

 

Ben A'an is a fantastic hill, and it was special spending time up there with family.

I know for sure I will be back, on a nice clear day to enjoy those phenomenal views!