This hill was recce’d at the end of November when it was clear of snow, but conditions were very windy at the top. The clouds lifted to give some spectacular views of snow-covered neighbouring hills on the east side of Ben Avon, and near the junction of Glen Avon and Glen Builg. We will park at The Allargue Hotel, 257092, PH(public house) on map. A track at the back of the hotel leads West, up the Don Valley, to the old farmhouse of Loinherry. We continue West with woods on our right, past Badnabein (dog-owners beware, there are free-range chickens! Millie had a field day!) and Dunanfiew. We will take the track at 227094 entering woods and bearing NW, then on to a shoulder of Carn Ealasaid , 792m, at 228118. The track does a complete circuit over the top of the mountain and SW to the shoulder called Carn Vaich, and back to Loinherry. The track is not marked on OS Map 36, but it will be a great help if conditions are poor. Walk time 4 hours approximately.

Meet at Culter Village Hall at 9 am. Return 5 pm, including a stop at the Goodbrand and Ross cafe and shop for refreshments afterwards.

Transport by cars, for which a contribution should be made. Drivers required.

(Please note if conditions are poor, or there is still a lot of snow, we plan to climb Mortlich, Aboyne.)

Phone: Rosie Hastings 01224 733170. (If your phone number is normally withheld, this number needs needs to be preceded by 1470). Closing date 3rd February, 2010.

Walkers must wear walking boots, carry WARM and waterproof clothing, hat and gloves and take plenty food and liquids. THESE ARE ESSENTIAL. Be prepared for possible wintry conditions and snow on the top whatever the forecast.

Culter hillwalking club has no members who are qualified leaders or instructors. Therefore anyone volunteering to assist the club on a meet cannot be held responsible for other members' welfare. Members must be aware they are solely responsible for themselves at all times