What is the highest peak of scotland

Mountains and hills of Scotland

Scotland is the most mountainous country in the United Kingdom. The area north and west of the Highland Boundary Fault is known as the Scottish Highlands (or simply Highlands), and contains the country’s main mountain ranges. The southern and eastern parts of Scotland are usually referred to as the Scottish Lowlands, but these areas also have significant ranges of hills, although they are lower than the Highland mountains. Within the Lowlands are two regions: the Midland Valley (or Central Lowlands), and the Southern Uplands. The Midland Valley consists of rolling plains interrupted by volcanic outcroppings. The Southern Uplands form a continuous belt across southern Scotland from Galloway to the Borders and is divided into five local ranges.

The majority of the country’s population resides in the Midland Valley, allowing the remote Highlands and Southern Uplands regions to remain unscathed by the advancements of civilization. Rugged and romantic, they are places of allure, places of dreams and escape.

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However beautiful the environment, the history of these hills did not escape tragedy. Its long and complex history includes brutal battles and betrayals during the Wars of Scottish Independence, the 1692 Massacre of Glencoe and both the Highland and Lowland Clearances in which large segments of the population lost both their homes and their homeland. Nevertheless, these mountains and hills continue to offer both inspiration and relaxation to all who visit.

Geography of Scotland

Scotland comprises the northern third of the island of Great Britain, off the coast of northwestern Europe. The total land mass is around 30,414 square miles. Scotland’s only land border is with England, running for 60 miles between the River Tweed on the east coast and the Solway Firth in the west.

The country consists of a mainland area plus several island groups. The mainland has three areas: the Highlands in the north; the Central Belt, and the Southern Uplands in the south. The Highlands are generally mountainous and are bisected by the Great Glen, which includes Loch Ness. The highest mountains in the British Isles are found there, including Ben Nevis, the highest peak at 4,409 feet. The Central Belt is generally flat and is where most of the population resides. This area is divided into the West Coast, which contains the areas around Glasgow; and the East Coast which includes the areas around the capital, Edinburgh.

Faults

The ‘Highland Boundary Fault’ is a geologic fault that traverses Scotland from Arran and Helensburgh on the west coast to Stonehaven in the east. It separates two distinctly different physiographic regions: the Highlands from the Lowlands, but in most places it is only recognizable as a change in topography.

The fault allowed the Midland Valley to descend as a major rift by as much as 4,000 meters, and there was subsequently vertical movement. This earlier vertical movement was later replaced by a horizontal shear. A complementary fault, the ‘Southern Upland Fault’, forms the southern boundary for the Central Lowlands region.

Regions

Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands include the rugged and mountainous regions of Scotland north and west of the Highland Boundary Fault, although the exact boundaries are not clearly defined, particularly to the east. The Great Glen divides the Grampian Mountains to the southeast from the Northwest Highlands. The Highlands are popularly described as one of the most scenic regions of Europe.

The key highland ranges are:

Geology of the Highlands

The Highlands lie to the north and west of the Highland Boundary Fault, which runs from Arran to Stonehaven. This part of Scotland is largely composed of ancient rocks from the Cambrian and Precambrian periods which were uplifted during the later Caledonian Orogeny. Smaller formations of Lewisian gneiss in the northwest are up to three billion years old and among the oldest found anywhere on Earth. These foundations are interspersed with many igneous intrusions of a more recent age, the remnants of which have formed mountain massifs such as the Cairngorms and Skye Cuillin. A significant exception to the above are the fossil-bearing beds of Old Red Sandstones found principally along the Moray Firth coast. The Great Glen is a rift valley which divides the Grampian Mountains to the southeast from the Northwest Highlands. [1] [2]

The entire region was covered by ice sheets during the Pleistocene ice ages, save perhaps for a few nunataks. The complex geomorphology includes incised valleys and lochs carved by the action of mountain streams and ice, and a topography of irregularly distributed mountains whose summits have similar heights above sea-level, but whose bases depend upon the amount of denudation to which the plateau has been subjected in various places.

Scottish Lowlands

The southern and eastern parts of Scotland are usually referred to as the Scottish Lowlands, but these areas also have significant ranges of hills, although these are lower than the Highland mountains. In addition to the main ranges, there are numerous individual hills in the Lowlands, often volcanic in origin. Many are known by the Scots word Law, meaning hill.

Midland Valley

The Midland Valley lies between the Highlands and the Southern Uplands. Its northern boundary with the Highlands is formed by a wall-like escarpment, while the Southern Uplands boundary is sharp only near the coast. This vast area is filled by both plain and masses of volcanic rock. [3]

Southern Uplands

The Southern Uplands is the southernmost of Scotland’s three major geographic areas. It is a range of of hills nearly 125 miles (200 km) long, interspersed with broad valleys. They lie South of the Southern Uplands fault line that runs from Girvan on the Ayrshire coast in the West to Dunbar in East Lothian on the North Sea coast. The Southern Uplands is the least populated of the three major Scottish geographic areas.

This continuous belt is divided into several local ranges; Carrick, Lowther Hills, Pentland Hills, Moorfoot Hills and Lammermuir Hills.

This region includes, among others, the cross border Cheviot Hills shared with the Pennines that form the «backbone of England.» The Southern Uplands and Pennines are of a similar size both in terms of area covered and height. Although the summits are not as high as many in the Scottish Highlands or other famous mountain regions, the Southern Uplands is remote and mountainous, containing about 120 hills. Some of the more notable peaks in the Southern Uplands include:

Ranges and highest peaks

Scottish peaks are categorized by means of the following hill lists. Note that any one peak may ‘qualify’ for inclusion in several lists.

The ten highest mountains in Scotland are also the ten highest in the United Kingdom.

History

Because of the geographical orientation of Scotland and its strong reliance on trade routes by sea, the nation has historically held close links in the south and east with the Baltic countries, and through Ireland with France and the continent of Europe.

This land of unspoiled beauty has a long and complex history, including the English military occupation during significant periods of the Wars of Scottish Independence (1300-1400s), the Massacre of Glencoe (1692) which occurred during the era of the Glorious Revolution and Jacobitism. In addition, the Highland Clearances were forced displacements of the population in the eighteenth century, leading to mass emigration to the coast, the Lowlands, and abroad. Part of the process of agricultural change throughout the United Kingdom, it was an abrupt change from the clan system with brutality occurring in many of the evictions.

Following the Scottish Enlightenment and the Industrial Revolution, Scotland became one of the commercial, intellectual, and industrial powerhouses of Europe, producing philosophers such as Adam Smith and David Hume, and inventors and entrepreneurs such as Alexander Graham Bell, James Watt, and Andrew Carnegie.

Scotland’s mountains and hills

In Scotland, the world is at your feet! Challenge yourself and satisfy your craving for thrills as you conquer the country’s rugged peaks. You can admire some of the most impressive ridges in the UK, or take in panoramic views atop our equally spellbinding smaller hills. You’ll feel like you’re king or queen of the world!

Scotland’s mountains and hills offer some of the most spectacular sights in the world, and they create the perfect playground for walking, hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the wilds of our raw Scottish landscapes. Contrary to popular belief, not all our peaks are found in rural and remote locations. Although getting away from the bustling cities may be what you’re looking for, you don’t have to venture too far from civilisation to feel like you are truly back to nature; some of the highest mountains in Scotland are only an hour or so drive from the city.

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UK’s highest mountain

Ben Nevis grabs the headlines as the highest mountain in the UK, but there are hundreds of other peaks worthy of your best boots. Scotland’s next five highest peaks are in the Cairngorms, a huge area of upland with the pulsing outdoor hub of Aviemore at its heart. Experienced walkers’ hearts will flutter when they see the Cuillin ridge in Skye. This magnificent alpine-style route is unlike anything else in the UK, with a continuous 12 km ridge crest demanding concentration on every step. There are also formidable Munros at Lochnagar, Glen Affric and the wilds of Knoydart.

Southern Uplands

Although ‘the Scottish Highlands’ are in the north of the country, if you head south past the central lowlands, you’ll enter a whole new world of character-packed hills. In Dumfries & Galloway is the mighty Merrick, which stands just shy of Munro status. Towards the east are the seductive rolling summits of the Moorfoot and Lammermuir ranges. Winding all the way through this adventurer’s playground is the Southern Upland Way, a long distance trail that stretches for 212 miles (341 km) from coast to coast.

Small but beautiful

Sometimes the best things do come in small packages. Stac Pollaidh is one of Scotland’s most distinctive hills and from start to finish an utter joy to climb. The path starts off steadily, rising in a gentle circuit of the hill’s shoulders. For the final summit push you’ll need your hands, feet and all your wits in a thrilling scramble. From the top, the views of the scattered peaks and surrounding loch-strewn wilds are astonishing.

Mountain city

Munros

Sir Hugh Munro could never have guessed what he was starting when he compiled his list of Scotland’s 3,000 ft hills in 1891. Climbing the 282 Munros is now an iconic achievement for keen hillwalkers. If you complete a ’round’ you will also have explored some of the most beautiful and remote landscapes in Europe. Ben Lomond, just north of Glasgow, is many people’s first Munro. The Isle of Skye has 12 Munros, all very challenging.

Corbetts

The Munros certainly make up a magical list, but hillwalkers who ignore Scotland’s Corbetts are missing out on some amazing days out or an exciting active holiday. Classic Corbetts include The Cobbler, Ben Ledi and Arkle.

Grahams

If you’re new to hillwalking or simply fancy a gentle walk in the country, you’ll find the Grahams offer some wonderful days of adventure. Try Tinto Hill in the Borders, Marsco on Skye and Suilven in the far north.

Glens

There wouldn’t be any hills without glens to separate the summits! Take time to enjoy these scenic valleys and you’ll be surprised by emerald lochs, fairy pools, historic battle sites, and Harry Potter’s steam train.

Looking for a new hillwalking adventure?

Start climbing Arthurs!

The ‘Arthurs’ are 20 major peaks that can be seen from Arthur’s Seat in the centre of Edinburgh. The list include hills as far away as Lochnagar, 69 miles (111 km) to the north, Ben Lomond to the west and Schiehallion; it’s an eclectic mix of Munros, Corbetts and Grahams.

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Schiehallion

Explore the snowy peaks of this majestic mountain in this inspiring video. Schiehallion is managed by the John Muir Trust.

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Scotland

Scotland is the United Kingdom’s northernmost country. It covers the northern third of the island of Great Britain, with a border to England to the south. Scotland is by far the most mountainous country in the United Kingdom. Scotland contains Britain’s highest peaks, notably Ben Nevis at 1344m.

Ben Nevis is located towards the western end of Grampian Mountains in the Lochaber area of the Scottish Highlands, close to the town Fort William. The mountain is a popular destination, attracting an estimated 100,000 ascents per year. The summit is the collapsed dome of an ancient volcano.

The area north of the Highland Boundary Fault is known as the Scottish Highlands, and contains the majority of the country’s mountain ranges. The southern and eastern parts of Scotland are known as the Scottish Lowlands. The Lowlands are made up of the Midland Valley and the Southern Uplands regions. In Scotland there are 7,326 named mountains spread across the various mountain regions.

The Midland Valley consists of rolling plains and volcanic outcrops. The Southern Uplands stretch across southern Scotland from Galloway to the Borders.

Scotland’s mountains were formed after the collision with the eurasian plate. The oldest rocks of Scotland are the Lewisian gneisses, which were formed in the Precambrian period, 3000 million years ago. They are among the oldest rocks in Europe and the World.

Scotland and hiking

Scotland has a very positive attitude towards hiking and walking in general. Traditionally there was the presumption of universal access to land. This was confirmed under the Land Reform Act 2003. It allows everyone the right to be on most land providing they act responsibly. Scotland is ready and waiting to be explored!

The Munro’s

There are several other names for peaks of different heights:

Main Cities

Access

Scotland has excellent access with most of the larger cities being served by airports. There is equally an extensive rail network throughout the country. One of the most famous routes crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Inverness-shire, recognisable from its use in the Harry Potter movies.

Climate

The climate in Scotland is quite changeable. It tends to have mild but wet winters as a result of the Gulf Stream, however the temperatures are typically cooler than the rest of the UK. The western highlands are amongst the wettest places in Europe. Snowfall is not uncommon during the winter months at higher altitudes.

The summer months would be the best to visit if you are looking for more settled weather and warmer temperatures (with average highs of 15-17°C). Although the spring, autumn and winter colours would also be worth experiencing.

National Parks

Scotland currently has two national parks: Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, created in 2002, and the Cairngorms National Park, created in 2003. The Trossachs covers a total area of 1865 km2 and contains 21 Munros, 19 Corbetts, two forest parks and 57 nature conservation sites. The Cairngorms has a total area of 4528 km2. Cairngorms is the largest National Park in the UK.

The Devil’s Point from the River Dee in the Cairngorms National Park.

Wildlife

Scotland’s wildlife is typical to that of north western Europe. Home to over 90,000 species, Scotland has a rich and diverse natural history which attracts thousands of wildlife-enthusiasts each year. Throughout the year various flowers, plants, trees and fungi which can be easily identified.

One of Scotland’s most famous creatures is from folklore: Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, who is said to reside in Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands. There has been no proof of existence despite many attempts and several hoaxes. Believe the folklore or not, the temperature of the Loch is more than enough reason to deter you from going for a swim!

Top hiking routes

There is a loop that takes you around Holyrood Park of 6km taking in the various peaks in the park. Starting at the base near the Royal Commonwealth Pool and hiking up to The Nether Hill, Crow Hill and then Arthur’s seat. You can continue on to Dunsapie Crag and the loop back around to Arthur’s seat and down.

Starting from Loch Achtriochtan, follow the trail to Bidean Nam Bian passing over Stob Coire Nam Beith. Once at the summit you will have a breathtaking view of the surrounding peaks and the glens below. You have a choice to either descend the same way that you came (giving you a total distance of 6km) or continue your hike down the Allt Coire Gabhail valley to the north. Once you get to the end of the valley, head east along the River Coe back to the start. The total distance for this hike is 12.8km with a total elevation gain of 1066m. Estimated time. 4 hours.

Ben Nevis, Inverness-shire. It would be impossible to not include Britain’s highest peak (1344m) in this list. Ben Nevis is a top destination for avid hikers coming to Scotland and provides an excellent challenge. The route consists of rocky paths and panoramas of the Scottish wilderness at every turn.

Starting from Cafe Beag on the outskirts of Glen Nevis, follow the Ben Nevis mountain track all the way to the summit (the most popular ascension). There is a total of 1300m of vertical elevation over 14km (there and back). The route is best attempted in the summer months, although it is open all year around, you would need to be sufficiently prepared in the winter. Estimated time. 7 hours

Beinn Alligin (986m), Wester Ross is located on the North Western coast of Scotland. The peak’s name in English is the ‘Mountain of Beauty’. The scenery in this wild part of the Scottish Highlands is some of Scotland’s finest. From the peak you will have views of the surrounding peaks and out into the North sea and the rocky islands of Skye, North Uist and Lewis and Harris. Starting from the Beinn Alligin carpark, there is an excellent 10km loop up to the peak via the adjacent summit of Tom Na Gruagaich (922m) with a total elevation gain of 890m. Estimated time. 5 hours.

The Most Stunning Mountains And Hills In Scotland

Standing atop a mountain or hill, although vertigo-inducing, is medicine to the mind and soul. Looking at matters from a different perspective invites a flurry of emotions. Whether a hiker, walker, writer, musician, wanderer, romantic, or earth-bound misfit in love with the sky, words can barely describe the beauty that engulfs the picture perfect mountains of Scotland. May these 10 spark your daily epiphany.

Buachaille Etive Mor

Climbers call it The Buachaille. Others refer to it as Heaven. Buachaille Etive Mòr means ‘the great herdsman of Etive’ and is one of the most recognisable mountains in Scotland, with its pyramid form and postcard perfect aesthetics. The River Etive guards this mountain as it circles around it, while the four principal tops make the ridge.

Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis is the highest of all mountains in the British Isles. Standing tall at the end of the Grampian Mountains in the Lochaber vicinity, this hill of magnitude attracts strings of eager outdoor folk each year, all chomping at the bit to step foot in such a breathtaking setting. At 2,300 ft, the north facing cliffs are some of the tallest in Scotland. Feel the butterflies as the enchanting gaze of Ben Nevis commandeers your thoughts.

Ben Nevis

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The mountain with its head in the clouds

Ben Nevis requires little introduction. With a wild heart, an adventurous spirit and a flair for drama, the legendary peak towers above glistening lochans and deep glacial valleys. In Scotland, you can’t get any higher than this.

Experiencing Ben Nevis

Scotland’s landscape is scattered with Munros and mist-shrouded hills.

But Ben Nevis is the king of them all. In the north west Highlands, near the town of Fort William and part of the Grampian Mountain range, the famous peak attracts 125k walkers a year. Whether you’re an avid ambler or you just love beautiful landscapes, bagging ‘the Ben’ is likely to feature near the top of your Scottish bucket list.

An ancient giant of the land, Ben Nevis was once a massive active volcano which exploded and collapsed inwards on itself millions of years ago. At the summit, there is evidence of an explosion in the form of light-coloured granite. The name itself has two translations from the ancient Gaelic language, meaning ‘mountain with its head in the clouds’, thanks to its iconic mist-shrouded peak, or it can also mean ‘venomous mountain’ – you can decide which translation you prefer after the climb!

Read on for an overview of walking routes up the mountain, or visit Walk Highlands for detailed maps, difficulty levels and walking advice.

Remember it’s never ‘easy’ to bag a Scottish Munro or Corbett. You’ll need a good amount of hillwalking experience, fitness, hill craft and navigation skills using a map and compass, before attempting any Scottish mountains, even more so in winter. Check the FAQs section below for safety advice.

Looking for something different? Try these 9 alternative must-climb hills to Ben Nevis in Scotland.

Scotland’s largest mountain was once a massive active volcano which exploded and collapsed inwards on itself millions of years ago.

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Routes to the summit

There are two main walking routes up Ben Nevis. The Mountain Track (sometimes called the Tourist Track or the Pony Track) is used by most walkers, whilst the Carn Mor Dearg Arête route presents a more challenging climb for more experienced hikers.

The Mountain Track

Best route for: Beginners

The easiest route up the mountain, the track begins at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre car park, at Achintee on the east side of Glen Nevis about 2 km from the town centre of Fort William, and approximately 20 m above sea level. The track starts with a steep climb to the halfway lochan’, or Lochan Meall an t-Suidhe, and then the ascent features snaking zig-zag paths up to the summit.

At the summit, there’s a cairn that marks the highest point and your reward on a clear day will be the incredible 360° panoramic vistas which can stretch as far as Northern Ireland. From the top, see if you can point out other peaks including the Torridon hills, Ben Lomond and Morven at Caithness.

A unique feature of the summit is the Old Observatory, which was opened in 1883. It provided hourly meteorological data for almost 20 years, recording some of the UK’s most useful information about mountain weather to date. It closed in 1904 and it now lies in ruin, but can be used for shelter in emergencies.

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Explore the Mountain Path in 360°

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Climb Ben Nevis | 360 4:23

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Carn Mor
Dearg Arête

Best route for: Experienced hillwalkers

Carn Mor Dearg Arête is the mountain’s other walking route, a challenging ridge climb which should only be attempted by experienced scramblers and physically-fit hill walkers. Though demanding, the route rewards walkers with the finest possible views of the mountain’s North face. Starting from the North Face car park at Torlundy, the trail traverses not one but two Munros, the Carn Mor Dearg and Ben Nevis. It can also be reached by following the Mountain Track to the ‘halfway lochan’, then taking the left fork whilst the right fork continues along the Mountain Track. You’ll pass the CIC Hut, a private shelter for mountaineers. A longer and more strenuous walk than the Mountain Track, this spectacular route can take between 10-11 hours with scrambles across boulders. It requires a good head for heights and careful navigation across the trickier exposed sections.

This spectacular route can take between 10 – 11 hours with scrambles across boulders. It requires a good head for heights and careful navigation across the trickier exposed sections.

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Beyond hiking

There are many other incredible ways to experience Ben Nevis

Rock Climbing

A rock climber’s paradise, the North Face of Ben Nevis has steep jagged cliff edges which are 600m high in places and perfect for rock climbing. There is a variety of routes to choose from, including the Ledge Route and Tower Ridge. Find a knowledgeable rock climbing or mountain guide to show you the best spots on the mountain, and read more about rock climbing experiences you can have on Ben Nevis.

Mountain Gondola

The gondola cars are wheelchair accessible, and you can also bring your dog and take them for a walk along one of the mountain viewpoint trails.

For more information about prices and times, please visit the Nevis Range website.

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Frequently
asked questions

Turn your Munro-bagging dreams into reality and find out everything you need to know before you lace up your walking boots. Remember, discovering the sheer magic of Scotland’s most famous mountain is all the more fun when you’re completely prepared for anything.

Plan your Ben Nevis adventure

Essential tips for your climb

How long does it take to climb Ben Nevis?

How tough is it to climb?

It’s a long and arduous climb and you might have stiff legs the following day, but the feeling of accomplishment when you scale the tallest mountain in the United Kingdom is pretty tough to beat.

How high is it?

A lofty 1,345 m. To put it into perspective, the London Eye stands at 135 m and Big Ben at 96 m high.

Do I need a map and a compass?

Although the Mountain Track is reasonably easy to follow on a clear day, it’s essential to have both a map and a compass and know how to use them especially if there is poor visibility during the climb.

Can I camp at Ben Nevis?

Camping on the mountainside is not advisable. The peak is exposed and busy with walkers during the summer, and pitching a tent would be difficult due to the uneven terrain.

The Glen Nevis Campsite is handily located near the foot of the mountain. It’s just a short walk from the campsite to the start of the Mountain Track.

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When is the best time of year to climb?

Summer is always the best time of year to tackle the Ben, with sunshine and clear views on the way to the top. You are likely to see snow at all times of the year, but climbing Ben Nevis in the winter is only for experienced mountaineers. If you are planning a winter ascent, check out Mountaineering Scotland’s #ThinkWINTER guidance and make sure you have the appropriate skills and equipment before you go.

What will the weather be like?

The weather on Ben Nevis is extremely changeable, with glorious sunshine one moment then fog and gale force winds the next. Even if you set out on the sunniest of days, the temperatures at the summit can be at sub-zero, so it’s important to take appropriate all-weather gear. Always check the mountain weather page before you go, and if you’re in any doubt, always turn back.

Watch the live conditions and weather from Ben Nevis with the HD webcam, which is situated at Tomacharich, Fort William.

What should I bring?

Warm and waterproof clothing is essential, and it’s wise to avoid cotton as it absorbs moisture. A pair of good walking boots are also an absolute must. Don’t forget to pack a few useful hiking tools, such as a map, compass, torch, whistle, and food and water.

Always remember to bring all of your litter back down the mountain with you. There are no bins on Ben Nevis so it’s important to take care of the landscape.

Find out more about the Nevis Landscape Partnership, an organisation that works to preserve the Mountain Track for future generations.

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How do I climb Ben Nevis safely?

For more information on keeping safe on Ben Nevis, see these tips from Mountaineering Scotland and Walk Highlands.

Is Ben Nevis suitable for children to climb?

Absolutely, as long as they are prepared for all weather conditions and keen for a challenge. The Carn Mor Dearg Arete route is generally not advised for children.

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Can I bring my dog?

Yes, if your dog enjoys long walks. It’s best to keep dogs on the lead especially when the paths are busy with walkers. Also, some parts of the route will comprise uneven terrain, scree and loose stones which can be tricky for some dogs.

Can I do a guided walk of Ben Nevis?

Yes! If you’re not feeling too confident or you want to learn more about this gigantic Munro, there are several guided walking tours which will lead you up and down the mountain. Take advantage of the guides’ local knowledge, walking experience, and learn more about the viewpoints and facts about the mountain.

Go to Visit Fort William to see all the guided walks available.

Where can I stock up on supplies?

You can purchase snacks, find useful information and maps, and use the toilets at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre before you set off. Fort William also has several outdoor shops in the town centre for any essentials you might need.

How do I get there?

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Places to stay
things to do

When you’re not admiring the awe-inspiring vistas from the mountain-top, absorb the rich history and energetic personality of Fort William and the surrounding area.

Nearby attractions

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Find more things to see and do in Fort William.

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Accommodation near Ben Nevis

After your epic adventure, choose from a wide variety of accommodation options available in and around Fort William.

Take the chance to do some wild camping in the area, and sleep in the shadow of Ben Nevis. Pitch up a tent on the grassy plains of the Steall Meadows, Upper Glen Nevis. A sheltered glen which separates Ben Nevis from the towering ridges of the Mamores range, this is an idyllic spot to set up camp. Visit the dramatic Steall Falls and cross the famous wire bridge nearby.

Admire the magnificent views out for the window, from the comfort of the Ben Nevis Inn while you enjoy a pint of real ale and some hearty Highland produce. You can also rest your weary legs after the climb and stay the night in the bunkhouse.

For incredible views of the mountain, spend the night at the friendly Glen Nevis Youth Hostel. Ideally situated at the foot of Ben Nevis with drying facilities and spacious places to relax, the hostel is a great place to unwind after a long day of walking.

Look out for places to stay which are part of the Walker’s Welcome Scheme, which will cater especially for walkers’ needs and provide information and useful facilities throughout your stay.

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Find your next
Munro adventure

More ideas for unforgettable Highland walks

Treat your eyes (and your camera lens) to more mountainous scenery and unforgettable Scottish walks in the north west Highlands. Or, why not bag a few more Munros while you’re visiting the area?

Useful Links

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Share your Ben Nevis experience using #bennevis or #visitscotland!

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