How Can You Turn Munro Bagging Into Your Next Great Adventure?

Are you seeking an outside activity that will combine stunning scenery, physical activity, and a genuine feeling of success? Then look no further! Munro bagging might just be your perfect next goal! The Munros, Scotland's mountains over 3,000 feet, are not only towering hikes but also a call to trek some of the most beautiful and untamed lands of the UK.

Still, how would you turn such a hassle into an amazing and memorable journey instead of simply ticking off another list? This guide will share all the required facts about the most significant aspect of Munro bagging, which makes every climb an epic experience that keeps you coming back for more!

The Fascinating History Behind Scotland's Munros

A Munro is the name of a mountain in Scotland whose height is more than 3,000 feet (914 meters), and you can ‘bag’ one if you go up to the top. The name of these high mountains comes from Sir Hugh Munro (1856–1919), whose first compilation of the 283 tallest peaks in Scotland was named Munro's Tables and was published in the journal of the Scottish Mountaineering Club in 1891.

The official list of Munros includes 282 peaks (and 227 'tops') as of today. We have compiled a list of a few Munros that belong to the Trust for you to explore!

Scotland's Most Popular Munros

Most of the mountains in Scotland, such as Ben Nevis and Schiehallion, are well known, but what are the most famous Munros? Let's discuss some of the most popular Munros!

Buachaille Etive Mór

This mountain is among the most famous ones in Scotland; you must have seen it on postcards and calendars. Over 30,000 people attempt to ascend it annually. The stunning scenery of this ridge can be reached in less than an hour by car from Glasgow, and there are not one but two Munros: Stob Dearg and Stob na Broige. Get ready to go on an adventure with Munro Bagger and climb the most beautiful peaks of Scotland.

Height: Stob Dearg 1,021 m; Stob na Broige 956 m
Time: 7–9 hours
Beginning Point: Laybys at the foot of the mountain on the A82

Ben Macdui

It is the second-tallest mountain in the United Kingdom after Ben Nevis. Macdui dominates the middle of an expansive natural reserve in Mar Lodge Estate, and the trek to the top, starting at the Linn of Dee (Cairngorm), is 18 miles if you go around the ski slopes.

Height: 1,309 m
Time: 9–10 hours
Beginning Point: Linn of Dee car park

Liathach

Torridon is the place where this most beautiful mountain in Scotland is situated. Torridon has been the destination of many hillwalkers and climbers; the route along Liathach's ridge is stunning, and one can have a nice view of Beinn Eighe and Beinn Alligin, which are the neighbours. One cannot compare such a walk to the mountain of Liathach with any other.

Height: 1,055 m
Time: 8–10 hours
Beginning Point: Parking lot to the east of Glen Cottage

Five Sisters

The renowned Five Sisters ridge in Kintail is a 10-mile journey over three different Munros of Scotland. This is among the best mountain walks of the Highlands, but you should get ready for a tough day; the landscape is steep and rugged, and finding your way is a little difficult even with good weather.

Height: Sgurr na Ciste Duibhe (1,027 m); Sgurr na Carnach (1,002 m); Sgurr Fhuaran (1,067 m)
Time: 8–10 hours
Beginning Point: Glen Shiel car park just off the A87

Top 3 Beginner-Friendly Munros in Scotland

Refer to the following beginner-friendly Munros: 

Ben Lomond

Most people try to climb a Munro in Scotland before doing any other one. The climb is quite gentle, and the way is large and in good condition, but it is usually very crowded, so you can hardly be there alone. On a clear day, the panorama is really stunning; Lake Lomond can be seen as well as the Trossachs coming from far away.

Height: 974 m
Time: 5 hours
Starting Point: Rowardennan car park

Ben Lawers

It is one of the most loved mountains by climbers from all over Scotland. The towering peak of the Southern Highlands is full of wild animals, and from the top, you can enjoy fantastic views of Loch Tay; therefore, you must bring a camping rain shelter for unpredictable weather. Besides, the straightforward path to the summit allows you to walk across another Munro, Beinn Ghlas (1,103 m), so you end up with two mountains for the price of one!

Height: 1,214 m
Time: 4–6 hours
Starting point: Ben Lawers car park

Cairn Gorm

Even though the legendary Cairn Gorm is not at any of our locations, it is adjacent to Mar Lodge Estate; actually, some very adventurous climbers are quite familiar with going up Ben Macdui and Cairn Gorm at the same time. Climbing from different places allows people who are not so sure of themselves to still climb this well-known Munro and get a fantastic view of the Highlands from the top.

Height: 1,245 m
Time: Various
Starting point: Examine the several parking lots to see which one works best for you.

Still unsure whether to explore Munros of Scotland? If so, read this guide: Why Exploring the Majestic Munros and Hills of Scotland Is a Must: Your Ultimate Guide.

Essential Gear for Your Munro Bagging Adventure

Those who walk would be wise to consider what they need before setting off up a Munro. Even the most basic walk on a mountain should be done by people who have the correct knowledge, quality equipment from Munro Bagger, and good planning.

Equipment

Most importantly, the right pair of walking shoes or boots should be your number one priority. Additionally, you will require a few lightweight layers and waterproof clothing to keep warm and dry. Bring along a map, a torch, and a portable survival kit to be prepared for any unfortunate incidents. Of course, make sure to bring along ample water and food for your journey.

Preparation

You need to know your routes, look at the weather before you set out, and find out how to safely use a map and compass for navigation, since a significant number of Munros are in secluded areas. You may not have service on your phone in case of getting lost or being in an emergency. Assess your capability truthfully, and keep in mind that a 5-mile walk that is made ascending will still be much harder.

Safety

Respect the environment around you and take care of it at every step. When the car park is in sight, it is quite a simple thing to calm down your nerves, but an accident can happen due to your lack of attention to your footing. 

Inform people as well, because it is both easy and safe. It would be best if you left a route card and an approximate time of return with a person who could get in touch with the authorities in case you do not return from your walk on time.

Ready for Your Next Great Adventure? Gear Up with Munro Bagger!

Whether you are going to climb all 282 Munros or just want to discover the Highlands through its fantastic scenic views, suitable preparation will enable you to make this challenge a memorable trip.

At Munro Bagger, we're with you every step of the way. We provide reliable camping gear directly from Scotland, made specifically for the rugged mountains. Our professional camping equipment in Scotland will not only guarantee your safety but also keep you comfortable and ready for your next trip with us! 

Get ready with us and turn your next mountain trek into a fantastic journey!

FAQs

What's the difference between a Munro and a Munro top?

The SMC define Munro Tops as scotch hills over 3000 feet (914.4 m) that are not classified as Munros. If the SMC has named a peak a Top because it has "insufficient separation", then it will also name the Parent Peak, a Munro, of the Munro Top.

Are Munros only in Scotland?

The SMC identifies six mountains in England, fifteen in Wales, and thirteen in Ireland that are similar to Munros or Munro Tops as if they were in Scotland. These are called Furth Munros, i.e., the Munros beyond Scotland.

What size backpack for Munros?

A medium-sized backpack. The majority of mountaineers suggest a capacity that lies somewhere between 25 and 35 litres. In case you want to do a winter Munro bagging, you will probably require a pack with more volume, so that you can carry the additional equipment needed.

What is the most common type of tent for camping?

3-season tents are the most loved tents by a wide margin. Those lightweight tents are designed for the not-so-harsh weather of spring, summer, and fall. Normally, they come with plenty of mesh panels that allow for better ventilation.