On 26th March eight Biggar Ramblers tackled Broadlaw, a Corbett that is the highest summit in the Scottish Borders at 840 metres. The sunny weather promised a good day out and passing Talla Reservoir en route to the starting point at the Megget they were treated to a stunning reflection of the sheer side of Muckle Knowe in the calm water. From the Megget Stone, which is already at an altitude of 452 metres, the Ramblers enjoyed a gentle breeze as they climbed the steepish sections up to Cairn Law and the views opened out.
After passing between the two cairns, they continued following the fence as the route levelled out to some extent. After a fair stretch of walking on rough open moorland on the rounded top, the tip of a radio tower mast became visible over the horizon. As the walkers came over the last rise, the trig point became visible, and, just beyond it, the radio tower, along with a white ‘UFO’ like structure. This ‘VOR beacon’ is the highest short-range radio navigation system for aircraft in the UK.
At this point the Ramblers were happy to find an old stone wall to provide improvised seating for lunch and a brief rest. They enjoyed the return route down as it offered the views that were behind on the way up: along the valley and over to Megget Reservoir and even a corner of St Mary’s Loch. A splendid 5 mile walk in spectacular countryside was enjoyed by all. www.biggarramblers.org.uk
