I always have the utmost respect for walkers who put safety first rather than showing off to the community by how brave or daring they are. You showed great self-control and wisdom in that decision. Fantastic video log of a memorable adventure.
When I first watched this I though ‘why is he turning back cause of a bit of wind’, fast forward a year and I found myself in the exact same predicament at the same spot on Ladhar Bhienn………..thankfully managed a safe retreat back down to Mam Barrisdale
Well done pal. You made the right decision to turn back. As my late Munro pal Jim always said the hills will be there long after us so we get more chances to climb them and as you say no one needs an excuse to return to Knoydart.
What a tale, what an adventure, spectacular views and what brilliant photography. I'm sure your heart sank when you returned to see your missing kit and the joy of having your faith in human kindness being restored. Words fail me yet again on the lengths you go to record your trips to share with us.
Brilliant 👏 & you certainly did do Knoydart justice! From every angle it is simply one of the most beautiful places on earth. She can bite you sometimes 😏
Thanks for sharing your Knoydart adventure James. You are right saying it's a special place. It's never easy turning back before the summit, but it's best to stay safe. Ladhar Bheinn is a mighty mountain and best kept for day when you can relax at the top to enjoy the views. I summit camped on it two years ago during settled spell of weather in August using ferry.from Inverie. On my 1st trip in June '05 I compleated the Munros up there and used boat from Arnisdale on that trip. Glad your tent is being sorted. ATB Derek
Great video! What would we do without people like you who upload films of your adventures that are both informative and inspirational. Also what a nice geezer you are. I like to walk alone but if i had to walk with someone I'd choose you (if Alice Roberts wasn't free).
my biggest mistake was walking past Barrisdale Bothy on my first Cape Wrath Trail. My best decision on my second CWT was to listen to my body, and stop early at Barrisdale for a complete recharge of batteries and body.
Just came across this video. Have done a couple of Munros on Knoydart coming in from Inverie....A wonderful place. Great footage and photos. Well done on making the right decision on not continuing. You can always go back....an accident there is not where you want to be.....Good call. Pleased MSR sorted your tent pole for you....you would hope so. Thanks for sharing....
Gutting about Ladhar Bheinn, but I'll console myself that I get another video when you try again. Fantastic to see Knoydart in such sunshine, what an adventure. Thanks again James
There are no words to adequately describe how amazing your video is and what an absolutely inspirational young man you are! All i can say is thank you so so much for sharing your epic adventures! The effort you go to in making these videos must be huge and is so much appreciated. Take care oot there James Theresa 😊
Great video. I had a similar trip back in June 2016. At Kinlochourn I was running round the car putting on gear etc trying to avoid the midgies! I rushed fastening my rucksack and broke the chest strap clip! With the overnight gear the rucksack was very heavy so I had no choice but to tie the chest strap as it takes a lot of pressure off the shoulders but it was far from ideal. What a time to happen I thought. I walked in, dumped gear in the bothy and went up Ladhar Bheinn. It's very tough going as you say and you did the right thing turning back as it gets quite narrow on Stob a' Choire Odhair (pointy bit just beyond where you were). I remember thinking wouldn't like to be doing this in the wind as it fair drops away on both sides. I slept in the bothy which was very comfortable but you're at the mercy of people coming and going. I woke people the next morning about 5.00am getting ready for Luinne Bheinn & Meall Buidhe. The ground between the two knocked the stuffing out of me due to the up and down nature and the previous days activities. Walked back to the car that afternoon. Like yourself I was mesmorised by the area. Knoydart is indeed a brilliant place to hillwalk and your video makes me want to go back!
Knoydart amazing. Such a shame about the wind but it was definitely too dangerous to continue and it's there for the next time. Thanks for a beautiful video.💖
Hi James, What a great experience you had in Knoydart and the memories will stay with you for ever. You'll be frustrated in not getting the third but it's no big deal as you'll have a few tops like that through your walking journey. You're definitely right not to add more risk than is necessary and its great excuse for a return trip albeit a bit earlier than expected. Well done... Cheers, Charlie
I fell Ill on Sgurr na Ciche years back and had to make a night crossing to drag myself out. Thankfully others were with me. It is tough terrain. Great recording.
Exceptional, thank you! “Enjoy the Journey” is the best advice I’ve ever read. Missing one of your peaks gives you a reason to go back and soon your photos will dominate your memories of this amazing place...
Good shout on Ladhar Bheinn. The hills will always be there tomorrow. When I climbed Bidean nam Bian it took me 3 attempts before I got up it. I’ve also been there with a broken tent pole as well - easily sorted. Still a great video and memorable trip. Thanks for sharing James.
Only discovered your channel yesterday and tbh it's one of the best I've ever come across on RUclips. I'm 23, but when I was between 10 and 14 I was obsessed with Munro-bagging when I was on holiday with family in the highlands and used to beg my parents to climb mountains there. We used to stay in Spean Bridge, near Fort William and in the B&B there would've been a book on all the Munros. Thanks to you I have vowed to get back into my passion of Munro-bagging now that I have finished university. Getting to Scotland from where I now live will be a challenge, but where there's a will there's a way.
Just to say James been following your journey for past year or so and you are inspiring a lot of people out there. Your videos are always brilliantly filmed. But you surpassed yourself on this trip. Bit gutting about Ladhar Bheinn but seems the sensible decision and always an excuse to return. This has given me the courage to try a Knoydart trip one day.
Gutted you weren't able to make the second summit, but from a selfish point of view, delighted we'll get to see this incredible area again, hopefully with the ferry crossing next time! As for the tent, I'm blown away (no pun intended) that the MSR didn't hold up, but glad they'll replace everything no questions asked. Makes me realise how lucky I was that my Vango 200 only suffered a bent pole on my first night at Sligachan campsite in August 2022 after arriving with a decent forecast, only to get driving rain and 60mph gusts on the first night...
Another brilliant video James - I'm really enjoying your Munro Journey. No shame in taking the sensible decision to turn back when the wind got too strong. Much better to do that, enjoy the views you got anyway and come back another day, than make a mistake that could be your last...
James, that was just epic. That was the bravest decision I've seen someone make in ages in turning back so close to the summit. As they say, it ain't going anywhere and it's always there for another day. We've had a few of those in Glen Coe over the years, even worse when we travel up from Gloucester each December! But it's always there for the following year. Stumbled across your channel a few weeks ago (been addicted to Bushman and Blue for months). Brilliant videos with fantastic views. Keep up the good work. Ozzy Gloucester.
Thanks Ozzy, it was a really tough decision to make but I think it was the right one.. being alone with no signal seems to make things worse 😂 Cheers, James
Great video mate and heh you’ll live to fight another day…you made the right decision and the hills aren’t going anywhere….brilliant scenery mate thanks.
Brilliant, I love watching your videos. Although I have only done 35 Munros, I was lucky enough to complete Ladhar Bheinn from Inverie a few years back. Fantastic film and so sensible to adjust according to weather.
Another great video James. The walk in along the lochside is lovely and when I did this a few years back on route to Ladhar Bheinn I was lucky enough to witness what I am pretty sure was a sea eagle flying down the loch.
Good decision turning back at that point. I did the horseshoe from Inverie in July. I got to the final ridge on Ladhar Bheinn and could see the point where you turned round. The ridge gets quite narrow then and would not be fun in high winds at all. From what I’ve learned in the mountains is if it doesn’t feel right just get out of there.
Looks like you had a superb trip. Full support for playing the conditions and deciding it was not smart to push over the exposed windy tops solo in such a remote area. BIG shout out to the folks who packed up your gear to stop it getting more wrecked in the wind - they could so easily have just walked past it, but decided instead to actively try to save your gear from further harm.
Cracking adventure mate! Shame about ur tent but great to hear there are people out there that had the kindness of heart to pack away ur broken tent 😍 Ladhar will get bagged next time ur there for sure👍🏻
Well the good side is that you have to go back to this fantastic area again. The lower hills there ain't half bad either. Ben Aden I find themost stricking and it sums the whole area up - "All grass from above and all rock from below. It is physically much easier to traverse from Luinne Bheinn to Meall Buidhe via th.e 2 lochans to the west, but the high route is amzing in weather like you had.
Apart from a small bird at the campsite I neither heard nor saw any signs of wildlife (or sheep!) - which I found surprising frankly. I was particularly looking forward to deer off in the distance &, maybe, even a startled haggis scurrying back to its burrow. I'm glad that the tent company have done the decent, the right(!), thing. Expensive serious outdoor equipment should always be 'no questions asked'. I am envious of you. Alas my legs have now gone & I am no longer capable of even moderate terrain. I wish you all the best for future 'adventures' & many many happy miles ahead.
James, thank you so much for the video. I was glued watching it. I've been lucky enough to go to that area but not as far in as you went. However this September a friend and I are planning to do pretty much exactly what you did, so your video log is invaluable to me. I think you have the perfect balance of views and storytelling in your video. Great editing. I look forward to watching more of your videos.
Hi James, great video, what a shame you didn't achieve your objective and damaged your tent.... But you'll have learned some lessons. Done these in summer and winter + the Corbetts there fantastic as well. Getting the wee boat from Arnisdale is a great way and saves a walk in. Again a brill vid. ATP jim. 👌👍
Really good video , one of the best .Brilliant location , the silence must have been deafening at times , glad you had such good weather , maybe you need a hat ? ... Thanks.
Good choice in turning back the mountain will always be their to go back and bag happened to me on my last trip up a very steep hill but will go back and bag it great vlog again we live in the most beautiful country in the world James
A super video where you showed Knoydart at its best. A very memorable expedition for you. It is not an area I have been in yet, I have that still to come. With regards your attempt on Ladher Bheinn, you absolutely made the correct decision. Safety is paramount. As the saying goes ‘He who fights and runs away, lives to fight another day’. I very much look forward to your video,when you return and conquer Ladher Bheinn.
I look forward to your videos like a good series on tv that you can't wait for the next episode which says a lot about your professionalism. The best you tube film of Knoydart I have watched so far. A fantastic area that I have still to visit with some good tips I'll take on board when I do. I paused the video when you said your tent was gone with a few expletives but was glad when it had only been moved by some lovely people. Well done on making the call to turn back that wind was mental but great for an excuse to return to this area again. Keep up the great work and hope to meet you on the hills one day.
Thanks Kenneth, it was a tough trip but came with plenty of rewards 😁 I will be back soon thats for sure! Maybe see you on a Munro some day 😁🏔 Cheers, James
Thanks James, I’m going to give it a second chance but my confidence has been lost in it.. I would love to summit camp but considering it goes destroyed at sea level isn’t great 😂 Cheers, James
Thanks for uploading, James. Seen other RUclipsrs who've had similar problems with MSR tents. Right call and thanks for sharing that. KBO and Ladhar Bheinn will be in the bag. ATB. 🏴🏔👍
Loved the video James! The fact you rated it 9.9 despite some disappointments speaks volumes. Your video is well worth a 10 anyway and it was always the right decision to weigh up the risks and decide to leave it for another time. Superb presentation -John
Awesome scenes and a fab trip. I would have been disappointed not hitting the final summit too, but you'll be back. Outstanding views will more than make up for that disappointment. Next time 😁. Can't believe your tent pole snapped as well, must have been a flawed pole. Glad MSR are sorting it though.
It's a stunning place right enough. Well done. Don't know when it was you did these but we were staying at Kintail area end of last week to do some of the Kintail peaks and Saturday we sat looking over from Sleat to Ladhar Bheinn thinking one day we'll head out that way. We decided not to do any climbing on that day as the wind was getting wild. Beautiful filming thank you.
Really good video there..Knoydart is such a beautiful place, my favourite..it's a shame about not reaching the summit of larven, you were actually closer to the summit than you thought, but you made the right decision & it means you'll to return to finish, so another Knoydart adventure isn't such a bad thing, glad your getting your tent repaired by msr too..all the best
superb trip - you'll only remember the good things in a short while. well done for bunking out of the peak - i did the same a while back although it was a bit more wintery. if you get the chance - and the weather window - try to chuck an extra couple of days in - it's a remarkable area to just wander around in - but you know that. thanks for putting these up, i never film, only take a few photos - so its so nice to have these as wonderful reminders. thanks once again and lovely job - looking forward to your Skye adventure - i shall be there in or around June, so will keep my eyes open up on the ridge - you never know.
Absolutely beautiful views! And quite an adventure. Definitely the right decision to turn back though, especially in view of the damage the wind did to the tent pole at sea level! And it's not the worst area to have to come back to, one that I have yet to visit. I've turned back within 200m of summits due to strong wind three times, and never regretted it.
Absolutely superb video James. Stunning scenery every way you look, unbelievable. What amazing weather to, for Scotland in April. You must be super fit to be able to walk 50km over 3 days in that terrain. Hope you got some great photography too.
I want to add my thanks to you for making these videos and enriching my life with your exploration. Your calm manner and enthusiasm for the amazing landscape of Scotland is greatly appreciated. Thankyou!
I’m half way through the video and wanted to say how amazing the views were from the peaks on your second day of walking. Absolutely inspiring and makes me want to return to Scotland and climb more Munros. Reading the comments it sounds like the weather turned and my Hubba hubba has certainly struggled on Dartmoor.
Good shout, 3 of us got blown off our feet at 29.27 on 08.05.13 luckily to shallow side, slid on our bums down 100 metres, I took heavy rucky off to put on waterproof trousers and it blew down hill! Was ok on way up.. descended to Inverie. No hardship to go back to Knoydart 😁
Stunning video. Beautiful part of scotland ive just got back from inverie with my son and will definitely be back to explore more. Msr have great customer service. I had same problem with a pole and they replaced it straight away. Great adventures and loved the music ❤
Good decision. And having to return to Knoydart is no hardship in my opinion. Really glad the tent disappearance was due to kindness and not malevolence.....I'd be gutted if it had been nicked. What a record you are going to have of your round. You are excellent photographer. Thanks again for sharing it.
Great video James, big days and big hills. On my first visit to Knoydart, I did the same route as you, (thirty-odd years ago) managing to do the 3 hills- but since then I have gone back and back and enjoyed/explored the place slowly. I am sure you'll go back in the future. many thanks for sharing. ATB
Nice post. Good to see the views from some of the 'pointy bits'. Over the years I have spent several weeks in Lochs Nevis and Hourne. Some utterly stunning underwater scenery and habitats and the pointy bits seen from a boat are very tall. I did walk from Barrisdale to Inverie over Mam Barrisdale one year. July and excellent settled weather and staying on the track it was do-able in a day wearing army boots, combats, sun hat and gaiters with waterproofs, spare socks and more layers staying in the rucksack with the packed lunch and spare water. Absolutely stunning.
A good few years ago (and a tad younger 🙊) a big group of us minibused it into the area; cannot remember where we were dropped off. About 15 ish of us. I remember catching the ferry at Inverie over to Mallaig at the Finnish. You quickly brought back good memories too. Good stuff and I've subscribed and 👍'd
Fantastic footage. I've always wanted to climb some of the Knoydart munros and corbetts. I have hiked through that area from Inverie to KInloch Hourn but never made it to any of the summits. I can appreciate why you turned back on Ladhar Bheinn. Last year I got to the summit tor of Ben Avon but didn't bag the munro because I didn't climb the summit tor because it was very gusty and I didn't fancy being blown off it (I am susceptible to buffeting by the wind), so I decided safety was more important than ticking off a summit.
Great video James. Ladhar Bheinn is my all time favourite Munro, you made the right decision to turn back. That wind looked ferocious. I have the same tent as you, used it about 20 times, once or twice when it was pretty windy with no issues. Hope I don’t have any after seeing what happened to yours. Fingers crossed you get it back soon & don’t have any more problems. 👍
Thanks Linda 😁 I can see why! Its a great mountain, ah maybe I was just unlucky - it was probably pitched against the wind which didn’t help, a hard one to prevent as there wasn’t much wind when I left 😂 someone else’s tent got damaged the same day at Barrisdale.. hopefully an isolated incident 😁 Cheers, James
Hi James! I have enjoyed watching all your videos and following your progress to date; you put together very impressive and enjoyable videos. This one was particularly timely, as after many years of daydreaming I am hoping to do something very similar in May (weather permitting). I have always been impressed that you have a very mature head on young shoulders (perhaps with me it is the other way round !?). You seemed to have learned very quickly how to value and treasure life’s experiences. I wish you well and look forward to more videos, including ‘Ladhar Bheinn - the return’: surely no bad thing?!😁👍🥾
Thanks Martin, hope you get your trip in May 😁🏔 haha I am probably a bit ahead of my years 😂 Your right - a Ladhar Bheinn return will be on the cards 😁 Cheers, James
Fabulous video James. What a place. Still to get there on my round but hopefully this year. And 100% the right call - as you said, it's not all about getting to the top.
Great videos and you made it bak safe, so we can have more stunning photoes. Get yourself a Hilleberge tent you wouldn't have any problems. Thanks for posting.
What an adventure James wow mate. You def made the right decision to turn back in that wind and as u said easy excuse to return. Stay safe cheers Rob Ps bet the sun tan is cracking 😂🌞
@Scottish Munro Journey 🤣 I've watched the vid mate and was first thing I noticed 😅 Had a wee chuckle . Good luck in Skye mate can't wait to see how you get on👍
Great decision, the ridge gets extremely narrow towards the top and would have been really dodgy. We looked back from near the summit and thought a Labrador was sat on the ridge not far behind us. It looked at us then just hopped off, a Golden Eagle in fact. We used to canoe down the Loch, some absolutely unforgettable trips.
Well done for turning back. It breaks my heart when I read about a hiker or climber who pushed on when maybe they should have been more pragmatic and put thier own safety first. I've turned people back the way they came a few times myself in the past, and have come up against the 'HAHA! I'm from *insert country here* We are tougher than you it seems! attitude, only to read that a body has been found a few days later. The mountain will still be there next year, so have another go.
Stunning place mate, did you even get a phone signal there, in case of emergency? Correct to come down, it’s that remote even a small injury could be fatal as no one is coming, not for a long time anyways
another incredible film James...the ups and downs of hillwalking for sure...you made the right decision not to risk a ridge on your own...I did the same last week up Drumochter when I did one hill then decided a mixture of wind, bog and the call of a pint in the pub made it an easy decision!
Aww James, I'm gutted for you mate! But the fact you're here to tell us your story proves it was the best decision, as that clearly wasn't comfortable to walk in and, with the wind blowing directly into unprotected eyes, you could so easily have lost your footing. So, thanks for making that hard decision and keeping yourself safe. Now, I apply the sunblock when I'm getting washed in the morning, as it's easier to do your neck and everything when you don't have a top on! Just try and make it part of your routine. I lost a 27-year old friend some years back to skin cancer - he went to his GP to get a single mole looked at, and was dead three weeks later. So there's another decision for you to make! As I'm sure you know, the damaging rays are always there, even when the sun isn't actually shining; and it's better to waste a wee bit of sun cream (they do cheap factors 30 and 50 in Aldi, which serves me just fine), than throw away your future. Rant over...! On the plus side, your photography is amazing, and I recommend your channel to everyone who is interested!
Thanks Paul - haha appreciate the rant though, the worst thing is I was carrying suncream but it was too late, I was applying at end of day 2 and the damage was done.. I have invested in some Factor 50 now and it will be going on before & during the walk 😂 Cheers, James
Epic video James, absolutely the correct decision to turn back, those conditions looked very dangerous in that remote wonderland bud. Take care, look forward to you bagging Ladhar Bheinn in the future ⛰️ 👍
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I always have the utmost respect for walkers who put safety first rather than showing off to the community by how brave or daring they are. You showed great self-control and wisdom in that decision. Fantastic video log of a memorable adventure.
Thanks Dave 😁
When I first watched this I though ‘why is he turning back cause of a bit of wind’, fast forward a year and I found myself in the exact same predicament at the same spot on Ladhar Bhienn………..thankfully managed a safe retreat back down to Mam Barrisdale
Its a narrow part of ridge that, my video didnt really do it justice at the time.. glad you got down safe 😁
Well done pal. You made the right decision to turn back. As my late Munro pal Jim always said the hills will be there long after us so we get more chances to climb them and as you say no one needs an excuse to return to Knoydart.
What a tale, what an adventure, spectacular views and what brilliant photography. I'm sure your heart sank when you returned to see your missing kit and the joy of having your faith in human kindness being restored. Words fail me yet again on the lengths you go to record your trips to share with us.
Brilliant 👏 & you certainly did do Knoydart justice! From every angle it is simply one of the most beautiful places on earth. She can bite you sometimes 😏
The objective is always to get back home, the tops are a bonus James.
An absolutely fantastic place btw.
Beautiful Knoydart, great scenery, great adventure, a bit of disappointment but safety first, cheers.
Thanks for sharing your Knoydart adventure James. You are right saying it's a special place. It's never easy turning back before the summit, but it's best to stay safe. Ladhar Bheinn is a mighty mountain and best kept for day when you can relax at the top to enjoy the views. I summit camped on it two years ago during settled spell of weather in August using ferry.from Inverie. On my 1st trip in June '05 I compleated the Munros up there and used boat from Arnisdale on that trip. Glad your tent is being sorted. ATB Derek
it was a good call, the adventure ended well, and thats whats really important.
Well I know a 3 day trip that’s just added itself to my plans for just after midge season.
Haha thats the main thing, avoid midge at all cost 😂
Great video! What would we do without people like you who upload films of your adventures that are both informative and inspirational. Also what a nice geezer you are. I like to walk alone but if i had to walk with someone I'd choose you (if Alice Roberts wasn't free).
Thank you, glad you have been enjoying the videos 😁 haha i’ll take that as a compliment 😂 Cheers, James
my biggest mistake was walking past Barrisdale Bothy on my first Cape Wrath Trail. My best decision on my second CWT was to listen to my body, and stop early at Barrisdale for a complete recharge of batteries and body.
Definitely, its a great place! Electricity & a working toilet, what luxury 😂 Cheers, James
Just came across this video.
Have done a couple of Munros on Knoydart coming in from Inverie....A wonderful place. Great footage and photos.
Well done on making the right decision on not continuing. You can always go back....an accident there is not where you want to be.....Good call.
Pleased MSR sorted your tent pole for you....you would hope so.
Thanks for sharing....
Thanks for watching 😁
Gutting about Ladhar Bheinn, but I'll console myself that I get another video when you try again. Fantastic to see Knoydart in such sunshine, what an adventure. Thanks again James
I was gutted getting so close.. but I get to return and experience the summit next time (hopefully!).. it’s a stunning place..
Cheers, James
There are no words to adequately describe how amazing your video is and what an absolutely inspirational young man you are! All i can say is thank you so so much for sharing your epic adventures! The effort you go to in making these videos must be huge and is so much appreciated.
Take care oot there James
Theresa 😊
Thanks for your kind comment Theresa 😄 it was a great trip, looking forward to returning already..
Cheers, James
Great video. I had a similar trip back in June 2016. At Kinlochourn I was running round the car putting on gear etc trying to avoid the midgies! I rushed fastening my rucksack and broke the chest strap clip! With the overnight gear the rucksack was very heavy so I had no choice but to tie the chest strap as it takes a lot of pressure off the shoulders but it was far from ideal. What a time to happen I thought. I walked in, dumped gear in the bothy and went up Ladhar Bheinn. It's very tough going as you say and you did the right thing turning back as it gets quite narrow on Stob a' Choire Odhair (pointy bit just beyond where you were). I remember thinking wouldn't like to be doing this in the wind as it fair drops away on both sides.
I slept in the bothy which was very comfortable but you're at the mercy of people coming and going. I woke people the next morning about 5.00am getting ready for Luinne Bheinn & Meall Buidhe. The ground between the two knocked the stuffing out of me due to the up and down nature and the previous days activities. Walked back to the car that afternoon. Like yourself I was mesmorised by the area. Knoydart is indeed a brilliant place to hillwalk and your video makes me want to go back!
Thanks Shaun - that sounds like a big adventure! Its an amazing place.. cant wait to return already.. 🏔
Cheers, James
Knoydart amazing. Such a shame about the wind but it was definitely too dangerous to continue and it's there for the next time. Thanks for a beautiful video.💖
Hi James, What a great experience you had in Knoydart and the memories will stay with you for ever. You'll be frustrated in not getting the third but it's no big deal as you'll have a few tops like that through your walking journey. You're definitely right not to add more risk than is necessary and its great excuse for a return trip albeit a bit earlier than expected. Well done... Cheers, Charlie
I so enjoyed that - and you have my utmost respect for making the decision not to risk the summit. Bravo on all counts!
Thanks Philip 😁
Stunning area
What a great walk
I fell Ill on Sgurr na Ciche years back and had to make a night crossing to drag myself out. Thankfully others were with me. It is tough terrain. Great recording.
Thats good you made it out OK - tough terrain like you say!
Cheers, James
Exceptional, thank you! “Enjoy the Journey” is the best advice I’ve ever read. Missing one of your peaks gives you a reason to go back and soon your photos will dominate your memories of this amazing place...
Fantastic adventure. Done the correct thing turning back . No need to take risks when you're miles from anywhere and solo.
Cracking video, mate. You did the right thing turning back. Very sensible. Just gives you another reason to return...
Thanks, yes no excuses needed to return to Knoydart.. Cheers, James
Good shout on Ladhar Bheinn. The hills will always be there tomorrow. When I climbed Bidean nam Bian it took me 3 attempts before I got up it. I’ve also been there with a broken tent pole as well - easily sorted. Still a great video and memorable trip. Thanks for sharing James.
Thanks Graham - I bet it makes it all the more special once you got to the top of Bidean 😁🏔
Cheers, James
Only discovered your channel yesterday and tbh it's one of the best I've ever come across on RUclips. I'm 23, but when I was between 10 and 14 I was obsessed with Munro-bagging when I was on holiday with family in the highlands and used to beg my parents to climb mountains there. We used to stay in Spean Bridge, near Fort William and in the B&B there would've been a book on all the Munros. Thanks to you I have vowed to get back into my passion of Munro-bagging now that I have finished university. Getting to Scotland from where I now live will be a challenge, but where there's a will there's a way.
Thank you - that is fantastic. Im glad you have chosen to start Munro Bagging again, I’m sure you won’t regret it 😁 Enjoy your journey,
Cheers, James
Best video yet James. You could tell that you were gutted by turning back but it was a great decision.
Thank you 😁 tough decision, but looking back I think it was the right one
Just to say James been following your journey for past year or so and you are inspiring a lot of people out there. Your videos are always brilliantly filmed. But you surpassed yourself on this trip. Bit gutting about Ladhar Bheinn but seems the sensible decision and always an excuse to return. This has given me the courage to try a Knoydart trip one day.
Thanks Iain appreciate the kind comment 😁 Enjoy Knoydart - its a fantastic adventure!
Cheers, James
Gutted you weren't able to make the second summit, but from a selfish point of view, delighted we'll get to see this incredible area again, hopefully with the ferry crossing next time!
As for the tent, I'm blown away (no pun intended) that the MSR didn't hold up, but glad they'll replace everything no questions asked. Makes me realise how lucky I was that my Vango 200 only suffered a bent pole on my first night at Sligachan campsite in August 2022 after arriving with a decent forecast, only to get driving rain and 60mph gusts on the first night...
In my opinion you made a wise decision, James. So there’s a chance to enjoy some more of your adventures. The storm sounded terrifying,in deed.
Another brilliant video James - I'm really enjoying your Munro Journey. No shame in taking the sensible decision to turn back when the wind got too strong. Much better to do that, enjoy the views you got anyway and come back another day, than make a mistake that could be your last...
Thanks Keith, can always return to enjoy it again 😁
Cheers, James
James, that was just epic. That was the bravest decision I've seen someone make in ages in turning back so close to the summit. As they say, it ain't going anywhere and it's always there for another day. We've had a few of those in Glen Coe over the years, even worse when we travel up from Gloucester each December! But it's always there for the following year. Stumbled across your channel a few weeks ago (been addicted to Bushman and Blue for months). Brilliant videos with fantastic views. Keep up the good work. Ozzy Gloucester.
Thanks Ozzy, it was a really tough decision to make but I think it was the right one.. being alone with no signal seems to make things worse 😂
Cheers, James
Great video mate and heh you’ll live to fight another day…you made the right decision and the hills aren’t going anywhere….brilliant scenery mate thanks.
Thanks Drew, looking forward to returning for Ladhar Bheinn already 😄
Brilliant, I love watching your videos. Although I have only done 35 Munros, I was lucky enough to complete Ladhar Bheinn from Inverie a few years back. Fantastic film and so sensible to adjust according to weather.
Thanks Frank, Ladhar Bheinn looked amazing from what I could see 😁
Cheers, James
Another great video James. The walk in along the lochside is lovely and when I did this a few years back on route to Ladhar Bheinn I was lucky enough to witness what I am pretty sure was a sea eagle flying down the loch.
Thank you - it was an amazing walk 😁 plenty of wildlife, I never seen sea eagles but I did see some seals in the loch 😁
Thanks for sharing your adventure.
Good decision turning back at that point. I did the horseshoe from Inverie in July. I got to the final ridge on Ladhar Bheinn and could see the point where you turned round. The ridge gets quite narrow then and would not be fun in high winds at all. From what I’ve learned in the mountains is if it doesn’t feel right just get out of there.
Definitely, never regretted turning back 😁 I have since been back and got to the top.. in worse conditions aswell 😂 Cheers, James
Thank you, James. Wonderful video!
Looks like you had a superb trip. Full support for playing the conditions and deciding it was not smart to push over the exposed windy tops solo in such a remote area. BIG shout out to the folks who packed up your gear to stop it getting more wrecked in the wind - they could so easily have just walked past it, but decided instead to actively try to save your gear from further harm.
It was great - even with the “disasters” 😁 look forward to returning already! Cheers, James
safety first...the bergs will always be there...quality video!
Thank you 😁
Cracking adventure mate! Shame about ur tent but great to hear there are people out there that had the kindness of heart to pack away ur broken tent 😍 Ladhar will get bagged next time ur there for sure👍🏻
Well the good side is that you have to go back to this fantastic area again. The lower hills there ain't half bad either. Ben Aden I find themost stricking and it sums the whole area up - "All grass from above and all rock from below. It is physically much easier to traverse from Luinne Bheinn to Meall Buidhe via th.e 2 lochans to the west, but the high route is amzing in weather like you had.
Apart from a small bird at the campsite I neither heard nor saw any signs of wildlife (or sheep!) - which I found surprising frankly. I was particularly looking forward to deer off in the distance &, maybe, even a startled haggis scurrying back to its burrow.
I'm glad that the tent company have done the decent, the right(!), thing. Expensive serious outdoor equipment should always be 'no questions asked'.
I am envious of you. Alas my legs have now gone & I am no longer capable of even moderate terrain. I wish you all the best for future 'adventures' & many many happy miles ahead.
James, thank you so much for the video. I was glued watching it.
I've been lucky enough to go to that area but not as far in as you went. However this September a friend and I are planning to do pretty much exactly what you did, so your video log is invaluable to me.
I think you have the perfect balance of views and storytelling in your video. Great editing. I look forward to watching more of your videos.
Thank you 😁 Knoydart is a fantastic place, I cant wait to return already! Hope you enjoy your trip!
Cheers, James
Hi James, great video, what a shame you didn't achieve your objective and damaged your tent.... But you'll have learned some lessons. Done these in summer and winter + the Corbetts there fantastic as well. Getting the wee boat from Arnisdale is a great way and saves a walk in. Again a brill vid.
ATP jim. 👌👍
Really good video , one of the best .Brilliant location , the silence must have been deafening at times , glad you had such good weather , maybe you need a hat ? ... Thanks.
Thanks Peter - your right about the silence! It was fantastic.. a hat is a good idea 😂
Cheers, James
Good choice in turning back the mountain will always be their to go back and bag happened to me on my last trip up a very steep hill but will go back and bag it great vlog again we live in the most beautiful country in the world James
Absolutely fantastic, what a place, what an adventure, I can't wait to follow those footsteps... stunning country Scotland is James. M ☘️
Brilliant James, loved watching this one. Great decision to turn back on Ladhar Beinne, but it means another great trip back. Take care,
Thanks Andy, a tough call but think it was the right one 😄
Cheers, James
I have the same tent but haven’t used it in mixed weather yet so a little bit apprehensive now! Great adventure btw!
A super video where you showed Knoydart at its best. A very memorable expedition for you. It is not an area I have been in yet, I have that still to come. With regards your attempt on Ladher Bheinn, you absolutely made the correct decision. Safety is paramount. As the saying goes ‘He who fights and runs away, lives to fight another day’. I very much look forward to your video,when you return and conquer Ladher Bheinn.
When my brother and i stayed in February we had the place to ourselves! Felt so remote walking the knoydarts
I look forward to your videos like a good series on tv that you can't wait for the next episode which says a lot about your professionalism. The best you tube film of Knoydart I have watched so far. A fantastic area that I have still to visit with some good tips I'll take on board when I do. I paused the video when you said your tent was gone with a few expletives but was glad when it had only been moved by some lovely people. Well done on making the call to turn back that wind was mental but great for an excuse to return to this area again. Keep up the great work and hope to meet you on the hills one day.
Thanks Kenneth, it was a tough trip but came with plenty of rewards 😁 I will be back soon thats for sure! Maybe see you on a Munro some day 😁🏔
Cheers, James
Exceptional adventure, fantastic scenery! Thank you ever so much for sharing these impressions, James!
Smart decision to turn back in the strong winds. Always difficult to make that decision when the summit is within reach. Best of luck next time!
Brilliant video and brilliant place. I did all three in a day from Barrisdale last September, it was an epic tough day of 15 hours. One to remember.
That must have been epic! Great area! Cheers, James
My Hubba Hubba was destroyed on North Uist, they are just not build for any kind of wind mate! Once again cracking video!
Thanks James, I’m going to give it a second chance but my confidence has been lost in it.. I would love to summit camp but considering it goes destroyed at sea level isn’t great 😂
Cheers, James
Whoa, that wind was insane! You definitely made the right decision.
It had to be done, even though I really wanted to get to the top 😂
Thanks for uploading, James. Seen other RUclipsrs who've had similar problems with MSR tents. Right call and thanks for sharing that. KBO and Ladhar Bheinn will be in the bag. ATB. 🏴🏔👍
Loved the video James! The fact you rated it 9.9 despite some disappointments speaks volumes. Your video is well worth a 10 anyway and it was always the right decision to weigh up the risks and decide to leave it for another time. Superb presentation -John
Awesome scenes and a fab trip. I would have been disappointed not hitting the final summit too, but you'll be back. Outstanding views will more than make up for that disappointment. Next time 😁. Can't believe your tent pole snapped as well, must have been a flawed pole. Glad MSR are sorting it though.
Knoydart was amazing, can’t wait to return already 😁 bit gutted about the tent but hopefully when I get it back it holds up!
Cheers, James
The mountain is magnificent❤, powerful💪 but never to be underestimated, magnificent video 👏👏👏👍👍👍🙏
Knoydart commands respect you are on your own you make the decisions but it determines them I'm blown away what a place.
It's a stunning place right enough. Well done. Don't know when it was you did these but we were staying at Kintail area end of last week to do some of the Kintail peaks and Saturday we sat looking over from Sleat to Ladhar Bheinn thinking one day we'll head out that way. We decided not to do any climbing on that day as the wind was getting wild. Beautiful filming thank you.
Really good video there..Knoydart is such a beautiful place, my favourite..it's a shame about not reaching the summit of larven, you were actually closer to the summit than you thought, but you made the right decision & it means you'll to return to finish, so another Knoydart adventure isn't such a bad thing, glad your getting your tent repaired by msr too..all the best
Thanks John 😁 cant wait to return already.. still waiting on my tent so hopefully will get it back soon!
Cheers, James
superb trip - you'll only remember the good things in a short while. well done for bunking out of the peak - i did the same a while back although it was a bit more wintery. if you get the chance - and the weather window - try to chuck an extra couple of days in - it's a remarkable area to just wander around in - but you know that. thanks for putting these up, i never film, only take a few photos - so its so nice to have these as wonderful reminders. thanks once again and lovely job - looking forward to your Skye adventure - i shall be there in or around June, so will keep my eyes open up on the ridge - you never know.
Thanks Richard, I will definitely be back soon & will probably take a more ‘relaxed’ trip 😂 I might bump into you on Skye then!
Cheers, James
Absolutely beautiful views! And quite an adventure. Definitely the right decision to turn back though, especially in view of the damage the wind did to the tent pole at sea level! And it's not the worst area to have to come back to, one that I have yet to visit. I've turned back within 200m of summits due to strong wind three times, and never regretted it.
Its a great place 😁🏔 it was just unexpected how windy it was, like you say - I don’t regret turning back though!
Cheers, James
Absolutely superb video James. Stunning scenery every way you look, unbelievable. What amazing weather to, for Scotland in April.
You must be super fit to be able to walk 50km over 3 days in that terrain.
Hope you got some great photography too.
Thanks Graham, it was a great trip! Got super lucky with weather (except the wind!) .. cheers, James
I want to add my thanks to you for making these videos and enriching my life with your exploration. Your calm manner and enthusiasm for the amazing landscape of Scotland is greatly appreciated. Thankyou!
Thanks Scott 😁
I’m half way through the video and wanted to say how amazing the views were from the peaks on your second day of walking. Absolutely inspiring and makes me want to return to Scotland and climb more Munros. Reading the comments it sounds like the weather turned and my Hubba hubba has certainly struggled on Dartmoor.
Thanks Ben, I have since had my Hubba Hubba repaired from MSR and have had no issues since, it is getting its second chance 😂 Cheers, James
Good shout, 3 of us got blown off our feet at 29.27 on 08.05.13 luckily to shallow side, slid on our bums down 100 metres, I took heavy rucky off to put on waterproof trousers and it blew down hill! Was ok on way up.. descended to Inverie. No hardship to go back to Knoydart 😁
Stunning video. Beautiful part of scotland ive just got back from inverie with my son and will definitely be back to explore more. Msr have great customer service. I had same problem with a pole and they replaced it straight away. Great adventures and loved the music ❤
Thank you, hope you had a great time 😁
Good decision. And having to return to Knoydart is no hardship in my opinion. Really glad the tent disappearance was due to kindness and not malevolence.....I'd be gutted if it had been nicked.
What a record you are going to have of your round. You are excellent photographer. Thanks again for sharing it.
Thanks Annie 😁
Great video James, big days and big hills. On my first visit to Knoydart, I did the same route as you, (thirty-odd years ago) managing to do the 3 hills- but since then I have gone back and back and enjoyed/explored the place slowly. I am sure you'll go back in the future. many thanks for sharing. ATB
Thanks John, fantastic 😁 I look forward to returning for Ladhar Bheinn, im sure I will do corbetts etc in the future too..
Cheers, James
Fabulous. I'm heading back to Iona & Skye in a few weeks and your films remind me of what I've been missing over the winter.
enjoy!
Nice post. Good to see the views from some of the 'pointy bits'. Over the years I have spent several weeks in Lochs Nevis and Hourne. Some utterly stunning underwater scenery and habitats and the pointy bits seen from a boat are very tall. I did walk from Barrisdale to Inverie over Mam Barrisdale one year. July and excellent settled weather and staying on the track it was do-able in a day wearing army boots, combats, sun hat and gaiters with waterproofs, spare socks and more layers staying in the rucksack with the packed lunch and spare water. Absolutely stunning.
It really is a stunning area.. one I will definitely visit again soon 😁🏔
your videos just get better and better's gutted for you when you about turned but safety first always well done 👌
Thanks John, it will always be there to return to 😄 Cheers, James
A good few years ago (and a tad younger 🙊) a big group of us minibused it into the area; cannot remember where we were dropped off. About 15 ish of us. I remember catching the ferry at Inverie over to Mallaig at the Finnish. You quickly brought back good memories too. Good stuff and I've subscribed and 👍'd
Thanks James 😁 hope it brought back some good memories
Cheers, James
Fantastic video bud, absolutely stunning... correct call too, took nothing away from this brilliant vlog! 👍
Thanks Ewan 😃
Fantastic footage. I've always wanted to climb some of the Knoydart munros and corbetts. I have hiked through that area from Inverie to KInloch Hourn but never made it to any of the summits. I can appreciate why you turned back on Ladhar Bheinn. Last year I got to the summit tor of Ben Avon but didn't bag the munro because I didn't climb the summit tor because it was very gusty and I didn't fancy being blown off it (I am susceptible to buffeting by the wind), so I decided safety was more important than ticking off a summit.
Thanks Adam, its a great area.. you will feel my pain then 😂 safety always come first
Cheers, James
Great video James. Ladhar Bheinn is my all time favourite Munro, you made the right decision to turn back. That wind looked ferocious. I have the same tent as you, used it about 20 times, once or twice when it was pretty windy with no issues. Hope I don’t have any after seeing what happened to yours. Fingers crossed you get it back soon & don’t have any more problems. 👍
Thanks Linda 😁 I can see why! Its a great mountain, ah maybe I was just unlucky - it was probably pitched against the wind which didn’t help, a hard one to prevent as there wasn’t much wind when I left 😂 someone else’s tent got damaged the same day at Barrisdale.. hopefully an isolated incident 😁
Cheers, James
Hi James! I have enjoyed watching all your videos and following your progress to date; you put together very impressive and enjoyable videos. This one was particularly timely, as after many years of daydreaming I am hoping to do something very similar in May (weather permitting).
I have always been impressed that you have a very mature head on young shoulders (perhaps with me it is the other way round !?). You seemed to have learned very quickly how to value and treasure life’s experiences.
I wish you well and look forward to more videos, including ‘Ladhar Bheinn - the return’: surely no bad thing?!😁👍🥾
Thanks Martin, hope you get your trip in May 😁🏔 haha I am probably a bit ahead of my years 😂
Your right - a Ladhar Bheinn return will be on the cards 😁
Cheers, James
That's a great tent, just be careful where you pitch it when it's really windy. If you want any advice on it, I can give you an insight.
Fabulous video James. What a place. Still to get there on my round but hopefully this year. And 100% the right call - as you said, it's not all about getting to the top.
Great videos and you made it bak safe, so we can have more stunning photoes. Get yourself a Hilleberge tent you wouldn't have any problems. Thanks for posting.
Thanks Marty 😁 might be looking at new tents soon!
Really enjoying your videos this is my first full year in retirement and looking forward to more time on the hills and your videos inspire me
What an adventure James wow mate. You def made the right decision to turn back in that wind and as u said easy excuse to return. Stay safe cheers Rob
Ps bet the sun tan is cracking 😂🌞
Thanks Rob it was some trip 😁 haha you will be able to see the suntan at the start of my video on Ben Starav 😂
Cheers, James
@Scottish Munro Journey 🤣 I've watched the vid mate and was first thing I noticed 😅 Had a wee chuckle . Good luck in Skye mate can't wait to see how you get on👍
Fantastic adventure James! The views are spectacular! Well done!
Great decision, the ridge gets extremely narrow towards the top and would have been really dodgy. We looked back from near the summit and thought a Labrador was sat on the ridge not far behind us. It looked at us then just hopped off, a Golden Eagle in fact. We used to canoe down the Loch, some absolutely unforgettable trips.
That must have been an amazing sight! I am glad I turned back that day - buzzing to return already though 😁
Cheers, James
Well done for turning back. It breaks my heart when I read about a hiker or climber who pushed on when maybe they should have been more pragmatic and put thier own safety first. I've turned people back the way they came a few times myself in the past, and have come up against the 'HAHA! I'm from *insert country here* We are tougher than you it seems! attitude, only to read that a body has been found a few days later. The mountain will still be there next year, so have another go.
Thanks - like you say, I can always return to do it another time 😁 with no signal & being alone it was a no brainer..
Cheers, James
Fantasic video - well done. I love Knoydart - my profile picture is from the campsite at Inverie
Thank you - its some place!
Stunning place mate, did you even get a phone signal there, in case of emergency? Correct to come down, it’s that remote even a small injury could be fatal as no one is coming, not for a long time anyways
It certainly is a stunning place.. no signal for 3 days except at the top of the 2 Munros, makes things a bit more difficult 😂 Cheers, James
another incredible film James...the ups and downs of hillwalking for sure...you made the right decision not to risk a ridge on your own...I did the same last week up Drumochter when I did one hill then decided a mixture of wind, bog and the call of a pint in the pub made it an easy decision!
Aww James, I'm gutted for you mate! But the fact you're here to tell us your story proves it was the best decision, as that clearly wasn't comfortable to walk in and, with the wind blowing directly into unprotected eyes, you could so easily have lost your footing. So, thanks for making that hard decision and keeping yourself safe. Now, I apply the sunblock when I'm getting washed in the morning, as it's easier to do your neck and everything when you don't have a top on! Just try and make it part of your routine. I lost a 27-year old friend some years back to skin cancer - he went to his GP to get a single mole looked at, and was dead three weeks later. So there's another decision for you to make! As I'm sure you know, the damaging rays are always there, even when the sun isn't actually shining; and it's better to waste a wee bit of sun cream (they do cheap factors 30 and 50 in Aldi, which serves me just fine), than throw away your future. Rant over...! On the plus side, your photography is amazing, and I recommend your channel to everyone who is interested!
Thanks Paul - haha appreciate the rant though, the worst thing is I was carrying suncream but it was too late, I was applying at end of day 2 and the damage was done.. I have invested in some Factor 50 now and it will be going on before & during the walk 😂
Cheers, James
Fantastic adventure mate. Loved it.
Absolutely epic hike , stunning scenery and 100% the right decision to leave the last till another time 👏👏👏👌🏻
Looking forward to returning already 😄🏔
Cracking veiws as per 👏
Good man James. I love watching your videos. Thanks to your mature decision making we can carry on watching more!
Thank you 😄 it was a tough decision for sure but think it was the right one,
Cheers, James
wow wow wow gutted you didnt get to finish but your right to turn as hill will be there long after you or i . great film again.
Thank you - looking forward to returning already 😁🏔
Epic video James, absolutely the correct decision to turn back, those conditions looked very dangerous in that remote wonderland bud. Take care, look forward to you bagging Ladhar Bheinn in the future ⛰️ 👍