Categories > Guides and Tips
What’s Up: Explore the 3 Highest Munros in Scotland
Scotland’s (what is so famous about Scotland?) a treasure trove for hikers, with 282 Munros found in the country. In case you’re unfamiliar with munros, these are mountains that exceed 3,000 feet in height.
Here are three of the country’s highest munros, in case you want to challenge yourself and climb up to view some of the most spectacular views in the world!
1. Ben Nevis
Height: 4,411 feet (1,344.53 metres)
Location: Fort William to Loch Treig and Loch Leven
Hailed as the king of the Scottish Highlands, Ben Nevis stands at 4,411 feet, making it the highest mountain in the entire United Kingdom. It’s located close to the historic Fort William and part of the Grampian Mountain range.
This famous landmark is the biggest challenge for all hikers, taking approximately 8 hours to go back and forth to the summit.
But the breathtaking panoramic views stretching from the Inner Seas to the Northern Ireland mountain of Knocklayd at the top make it all worth it. In fact, over 125,000 walkers a year rise to the challenge and scale this munro!
2. Ben Macdui
Height: 4,295 feet (1,309 metres)
Location: Cairngorms
Situated in the Cairngorm plateau, Ben Macdui is the second highest Munros in Scotland and Britain, standing at 4,295 feet.
With its uneven terrain and fickle weather conditions, this is one of the toughest climbs in the country, which will take you around eight hours to complete.
You’ll also need excellent navigational skills to find the right way. It’s essential to have an expert guide and reliable, quality equipment for the hike.
Once you reach the top, you’ll be out of breath – literally and figuratively – as you bask in the stunning surroundings including the Cairngorms National Park.
3. Braeriach
Height: 4,252 feet (1,296 metres)
Location: Cairngorms
The third highest Munros in Scotland is also in the Cairngorms. Braeriach stands at 4,252 feet but compared to the previous two, it’s not as popular or commonly traversed because of its remote location.
But make no mistake in thinking it’s an easier climb. Although it has fairly straightforward terrain, the descent is rougher and certainly not for the faint of heart.
It’ll take around eight hours for you to complete the trail. Ideally, you shouldn’t climb during winter because the mist and cornices add to the difficulty of the hike.
Nonetheless, the rugged and dramatic beauty of the wilderness and the nearby area is too beautiful to miss out on.
