Slieve Bearnagh

The Seven Sevens in the Mourne Mountains refers to seven mountains that are more than 700 metres high. We climbed Slieve Donard last year and today we climbed Slieve Bearnagh, which is 727 metres/2,385 feet high. We encountered snow, ice, hail, driving winds, but were not to be deterred.

The hike was about 6.5 miles and took nearly six hours. We climbed to a saddle then steeply up to a false summit, then scrambled on all fours to the actual summit.

Why do we do such things? Sitting around at home isn’t a better alternative when you sit around at home all week. I didn’t find the weather all that hostile unless I stood still for any length of time.

Yes, we lacked the panoramic view we would have enjoyed during other seasons, however it felt great to get some fresh air, set ourselves a challenge, and accomplish it, despite the obstacles.

One of our rewards was to have our first fire tonight in our living room. Perfect way to end a frosty day.
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