I was staying with a group of friends at Doune on the Knoydart Peninsula. They were planning a boat trip to the head of Loch Scavaig on the Isle of Skye to climb Sgurr na Stri so despite having already climbed this Marilyn back in November 2013 I decided to tag along.
We set out by boat rounding the Point of Sleat and heading into Loch Scavaig then the smaller Loch na Cuilce where around ninety minutes after setting out we disembarked at the small pier below Coruisk Hut.
The area was surprisingly busy and included a wedding party. Apparently Loch Coruisk is a popular spot for weddings.
The ascent of Sgurr na Stri commenced firstly with a walk along the Scavaig River which was easily crossed due to the recent fine spell of weather. The path soon led to Loch Coruisk and the awesome views of the Cuillin Ridge. After a short walk along the edge of the Loch we gradually gained some height as we followed the path heading towards Loch a’ Choire Riabhaich then climbing onto Sgurr na Stri’s North Ridge.
Here there was a bit more rock to contend with but no problems were encountered to gain the West Top where we remained for some time taking in the views.
We later descended east across some loose boulders then climbed a wide ledge to reach the summit of Sgurr na Stri where more photographs were taken.
The return was down a wide gully slightly to the east of the ascent route before lower down rejoining the path used on the approach route. It was then back to the pier at Loch na Cuilce where there was quite a bit of activity with boats arriving and leaving.
Once back on board our boat the skipper initially took us slowly passed the numerous rocky areas where seals were basking in the sun before making the return journey back to Doune.
- Time taken – 4.5 hours.
- Distance – 7.5 kilometres.
- Height climbed – 630 metres.