With Storm Eowyn battering the country, six determined members of the IBSC made their way to Mar Lodge. After numerous logistical obstacles including fallen trees, blocked roads and locked snow gates the team were finally all in the lodge on Saturday evening. After initial introductions we were surprised to find out that 50% of the group were splitboarders. I guess people are catching on that snowboarding is just cooler than skiing…

The traditional Burns supper of Haggis parsNeeps (shopping error) and Tatties went down well and discussion moved onto Sunday’s plan. At first there was little hope for skiing, but after a fair few drams, our spirits were lifted and a route was planned to take our kit on bikes and find some snow.

The next morning we loaded up our skis and splitboards and went out on the bikes to find some snow… We set off towards the Linn of Quoich aiming to recce Bienn a’ Bhuird South Top. It was hard going cycling along a snowy and frozen path and after a disastrous mechanical issue Doug had to turn back and abandon the search for snow.

After crossing the Quioch Water we decided that reaching the South Top wouldn’t be possible with the prospect of heavy snow and poor vis coming in later during the day. So we headed west to follow the Quich Water back round towards Mar Lodge. Along the way both Beinn Bhreac and Meall an Lundain looked almost promising but the snow was just too thin and the peaks too far away for the time remaining.

We arrived back at Mar Lodge, packed our cars and said our farewells. We all agreed it was a great learning experience for everyone on bike assisted skiing and helped us get to know the area better for the future. Overall, it was a very enjoyable weekend of taking our skis and boards for a ride.