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Ben Nevis, or the 'Ben' as it is fondly
known locally, sits majestically at the head of Loch Linnhe,
he, its presence dominating the landscape from all corners
of Fort William and some
parts of Lochaber.
(Why not take part
in the Three Peaks
Challenge)
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The
dramatic effect of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest
mountain, is emphasised by the fact that it begins
its rise from sea-level on the shores of Loch
Linnhe, to tower 4,406ft (1,344m) above the town of
Fort Williamproviding an almost
paternal presence. This can best be seen
from Banavie
and from
the banks of the Caledonian
Canal
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What does 'Nevis' mean? The river and glen
running past the mountain both carry the name, as does the
remote sea loch at Knoydart, 40 miles to the west. In Gaelic
the mountain's name, Beinn, Nibheis, has been linked with
Irish and Gaelic words meaning poisonous or terrible,
implying a fairly ominous character.
Ben Nevis, although not as high as
Alpine mountains, is positioned on a more northerly latitude and
the climate can be considered similar to Arctic regions. While
there may be a welcoming sea breeze on the shores of Loch Linnhe,
20-30 knots of chilling wind may be evident on the summit of the
Ben. Many walkers/climbers find weather conditions changing within
minutes - usually for the worse - as they work their way up the
mountain. Those walking up the mountain footpath should be warned
that the the mountain can be intolerant of the inexperienced,
ill-prepared walker!
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