Spring in the air as hikers head east
Our Lady of Lourdes club enjoy Fife excursion
Spring was in the air when Our Lady of Lourdes Hiking Club ventured over to the east coast for its latest walk – this time in the gentle Lomond Hills of Fife.
The coach passed over the new Queensferry Crossing – an exciting first for some of the members – and made its way along minor roads to deposit all the passengers at Wester Balgedie to the west of the Lomond Hills.
Two groups were formed, following initially the same route along a quiet country lane, farm track and through fields to enter the valley of the Glen Burn, notable for the Pulpit Rock, one of several large boulders perched precipitously on the glen side and itself famous, it is said, for being the site chosen for John Knox to preach from in the times of the reformation and Covenanters.
From around this point, the 22 high-level hikers set off northwards to make the first climb of the day; taking the unremittingly steep haul up the 522 metres to the summit of West Lomond.
Meanwhile, the lowlevel group of 10 continued following the Glen Burn up to the Harperleas and Ballo reservoirs, passing between them to Balharvie Moss.
From here, three kilometres took them up to the 424m top of East Lomond.
All were impressed by the jaw-dropping vista from this elevation as the Lomond Hills were spread out below them on one side and the beautiful wee town of Falkland with its palace on the other.
Low-levellers didn’t have much time to wonder at the views, however, for the highlevel group was hot on their heels for their second climb of the day.
A rapid steep descent involving 282 steps at one point saw them down first into Falkland and searching out the best locations for some refreshment before the others caught up.
The day was completely enjoyable with no rain and bright and cool conditions ideal for walking with sights and sounds of spring all around from bleating newborn lambs to spring flowers and nesting birds.
Visit bit.ly/ S cot lands Mountains to see videos of this and other club excursions.
To join Our Lady of Lourdes Hiking Club on their next outing this Saturday in the Loch Katrine/Aberfoyle area, call (01355) 222464.
V is itwww.olol hiking club. co.uk for more information. Anyone wishing to give hillwalking a try will be made very welcome.