Why Exploring the Majestic Munros and Hills of Scotland Is a Must: Your Ultimate Guide
Take a moment and go through the scenery in Scotland; you will find out that you will not be able to take these awe-inspiring rugged mountains, the Scottish lochs, and the deep and slightly mysterious glens out of your mind, which make the Scottish Highlands unbeatable. Here you can see some of the most well-known landscapes, with these giant summits being the main characters.
Both locals and visitors adore them. If you are a camping enthusiast who likes to reach the very peak or simply admire from afar, we bet you will have a great time with this brief overview of the most famous and loved Munros of Scotland. We'll explore why hiking these majestic peaks is a must and what makes the Munros and hills so special. Let's get started!
The Highest Mountain in Scotland
Ben Nevis, with a height of 1,345 m (4,412 ft), is the highest peak in Scotland. Located in the Grampian range, the Ben, which is the colloquial name, comes from the Lochaber area of Fort William and is the remains of an old volcano that has collapsed.
Generally, this way is the easiest to climb the mountain, but you can also find some harder trails for experienced hikers to climb Ben Nevis. Also, for those who are into camping, the Glen Nevis campsite is located just below the Ben.
The Majestic Cairngorms Mountain Range
Among all the mountain ranges in Scotland, the Cairngorms probably rank as the most well-known. The name of the Cairngorm Mountains comes from Cairn Gorm, the sixth-highest peak in Scotland and the UK, at 1,245m (4,084 ft).
While in the Cairngorms, with the unstable weather (typical of the Highlands), extra long tent pegs are a must if you want to be able to hold your tent firmly against the blows of wind.
Here are the 5 highest mountains in the Cairngorms:
Ben Macdhui at 1,309m
Braeriach at 1,296m
Cairn Toul at 1,293m
Sgor an Lochain Uaine at 1,259m
Cairn Gorm at 1,245m
The Majestic Mountains of Glen Coe
Many Scotland trips often feature a visit to the most well-known valley in the Scottish Highlands, the breathtaking Glen Coe. The place's beauty is quite closely associated with the towering peaks of Bidean Nam Bian mountain. If you come to Glen Coe on the A82 road from the south via Rannoch Moor, then the sights will really stun you. The rugged outlines of the Bidean Nam Bian, or as the Three Sisters of Glencoe are called, are the most picturesque from the Three Sisters Car Park.
When discovering this remote Highland wilderness, having a reliable camping survival kit from Munro Bagger ensures you're prepared for Scotland's unpredictable weather challenges.
The Epic Legend of the Five Sisters of Kintail
Kintail is a hilly area located in the north-west Highlands of Scotland, approximately 25 kilometres south-east of Kyle of Lochalsh. Similarly, these five sisters and the place around them make an amazing picture and are one more place that photographers use when they want to show the beauty of the Scottish countryside.
Here are the peaks of the Five sisters of Kintail:
Sgurr nan Spainteach at 990m
Sgurr na Ciste Duibhe at 1027m
Sgurr na Carnach at 1002m
Sgurr Fhuaran at 1067m
Sgurr nan Saighead at 929m
Suilven
Suilven may not be among the tallest hills of Scotland, standing at 731 m. However, it is definitely one of the most spectacular and intriguing, with its peculiar geological structure, its rounded summit when seen from Lochinver, and its impressive 2-kilometre-long ridge.
Exploring Scotland's Munros, Corbetts, and Grahams
While looking for the highest mountains in Scotland, you will definitely find the term 'Munro,' and if you are an adventurous person, you will also discover 'Munro Bagging,' which is the term for those who go to the Munros to climb them all. But were you aware that the hills of Scotland are divided into different classes based on their height?
One of the founding members of the Scottish Mountaineering Club (SMC) was Sir Hugh Munro, who recorded the first list of mountains in Scotland over 3,000 ft and named them Munros. About 282 are these, and out of that list, there are 9 that exceed 4,000 ft.
Corbetts are hills that have a height of at least 2,500 feet and are less than 3,000 feet (there are currently 222 of them), while Grahams are those with heights between 2,000 feet and 2,499 feet (219 of them).
Best Campsites for Spotting Eagles in Scotland
You can observe eagles, both Golden Eagles and White-tailed Eagles (Sea Eagles), in different parts of Scotland, especially in the Highlands and on the west coast. Combining eagle views with camping might be a clever idea if you book a campsite near the eagle's place of residence, such as:
Eagle Brae in the Highlands
Shieldaig Camping and Cabins for sea eagles
Locations on the Isle of Skye.
Top Tips for Eagle Spotting
Have Patience: Eagles are not easily spotted, and to catch a glimpse of one, you need patience and sharp eyes.
Seek out Place Names: "iòlaire" (Gaelic for eagle) being a part of place names is a strong indication of eagle habitats.
Consult Local Resources: For information on where to spot the animals, consult local wildlife guides such as those published by RSPB or Visit Outer Hebrides.
Munro Bagging: Conquering Scotland's Peaks
Just as with a mountain trip, whether a day hike or an extended expedition, it is crucial to emphasise preparation and safety. Get the weather forecast for the mountain you want to visit and pack the proper walking and climbing gear. You can always find the highest quality outdoor clothes and camping equipment in Scotland, as there are many outdoor shops available wherever you go.
Wrapping Up
Climbing the Munros and hills of Scotland allows one to experience an incomparable journey that is loved by nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The scenic beauty and history of the Highlands and the neighbouring regions, from the sky-high Munro to the gentle descent of hills, are quite attractive. Not only that, but you will also be able to sink yourself in Scotland's nature, such as the magnificent golden eagles gliding over the rugged ground, which is part of your hiking tour.
If you are getting ready for your trip to Scotland, having proper equipment from Munro Bagger is a must. To avail of the most suitable gear for your Munro bagging and nature walk, don't forget to have a glance at our selection of customer-friendly outdoor products made for your upcoming travel at Munro Bagger.
Gear up now and explore the majestic Munros and hills of Scotland like never before!
FAQs
Why do people bag Munros?
Climbing the Munros is a journey through stunning, unspoiled nature to breathtakingly beautiful yet sometimes scary or thoughtful places that you have never been before by any other way. The delights that the Munroist can expect are countless and diverse.
What is the toughest hike in Scotland?
The Cape Wrath Trail, a challenging long-distance walk in the UK, is a 230-mile journey through the West Highlands, starting from Fort William to the isolated lighthouse of Cape Wrath. It is not entirely non-existent and is impassable at times.
Is Ben Nevis classed as a Munro?
Yes, Ben Nevis is considered a Munro. A Munro refers to a mountain in Scotland that has an elevation of 3,000 feet (914.4 meters) or more, and hence, the one with 4,411 feet (1,345 meters) is the tallest Munro.
What is the most isolated Munro?
A' Mhaighdean is generally known as the most remote Munro, the place that is at the very heart of Fisherfield Forest in Scotland, and is about 13 kilometres from the nearest road.