They may not be the tallest in the world, but what Scotland’s mountains lack in height, they make up for in natural, breath-taking beauty that will reward any avid hiker with picture-perfect views of Scotland. From the glens of Perthshire to the Highlands and tundra of the Cairngorms, Scotland is a treasure trove of majestic mountain walks that will leave you in awe. Here are a few of our favourite mountains to climb. Next time you’re staying in one of our dog friendly cottages in Scotland or in a luxury holiday cottage in the Lake District why not try tackle one or two yourself?
Height: 1345 metres
Length of Walk: 17 Kilometres
Located: Fort William
Difficulty: Hard
We’ll start with the most famous Scottish mountain of them all, Ben Nevis. Situated on the western side of the Grampian Ranges in the Lochaber area of the Scottish Highlands, Ben Nevis is considered the highest mountain in Scotland. Over 25 thousand people make the ascent to the summit every year – many using the Mountain Track starting at Glen Nevis on the mountain’s south side. The high cliffs of the north face are a playground for rock climbers and mountaineers, and the mountain is one of the top locations in the UK for ice climbing.
Height: 974 metres
Length of Walk: 7.5 Kilometres
Located: Loch Lomond
Difficulty: Hard
Loch Lomond is arguably Scotland’s most famous Loch – but it’s hard to appreciate its true beauty from the side of its banks. To see the Loch in all its glory, you need to conquer Ben Lomond. It’s a challenging climb, but you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the National Park even before you’ve reached the summit.
Height: 280 metres
Length of Walk: 3.6 Kilometres
Located: Edinburgh City Centre
Difficulty: Easy
You don’t have to be lost in the wilderness of the highlands to appreciate Scotland’s mountains. Arthur’s Seat – an extinct volcano – overlooks the historic city of Edinburgh and is a doddle to climb. That said, do make sure you wear sensible shoes as the summit can be a little muddy and slippy. From the top, you’ll be able to see right across Edinburgh to the Firth of Forth, and on a clear day, you can even see the Forth Bridges
Height: 884 metres
Length of Walk: 11.2 Kilometres
Located: Arrochar
Difficulty: Medium
With its rocky crags and distinctive peak, The Cobbler looks much harder to climb than it really is. It’s a relatively straightforward walk with good paths to follow (providing you have good weather, of course). Reach the pinnacle, and you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Arrochar Alps and beyond. If you’re not one for heights, maybe steer clear of this one as it is a lot taller than it looks.
Height: 731 metres
Length of Walk: 20.1 Kilometres
Located: Lochinver
Difficulty: Very Hard
Don’t let the size of this wee mountain fool you; Suliven might seem dwarfish compared to the likes of Ben Nevis, but its 2-kilometre rocky ridge is not for the faint of heart. The walk to Suliven alone will take you most of the day, followed by a steep climb up a small gully in the face of the hill. Preparation and grit are required to tackle this otherworldly rock, but the views from the top are awe-inspiring.
Height: 1083 metres
Length of Walk: 10 Kilometres
Located: Braes of Foss, Perthshire
Difficulty: Medium/Hard
Known as the ‘fairy hill of the Caledonians,’ Schiehallon is a mystical hike most easily traversed in good weather. The Monro has a near-perfect conical shape, isolated from surrounding peaks when viewed from the West. Plan a trip to this Monro carefully, as, during winter, the hike is best left to highly experienced walkers.
Height: 958 metres
Length of Walk: 8 Kilometres
Located: Glencoe
Difficulty: Hard
The Glencoe mountains can be wild and merciless, but the slightly smaller Buachaille Etive Beag puts those stunning views a little more within reach of the average hiker. The ascent is steep, so go prepared – but climb happily knowing you’ll be conquering not one but two Monros - Stob Coire Raneach and Stob Dubh. The view from the top will offer a new perspective of Glencoe.
Height: 454 metres
Length of Walk: 3.7 Kilometres
Located: Callander
Difficulty: Easy/Medium
Known as the mountain in miniature, Ben A’an is a very popular hill right in the centre of the Trossachs. It’s an excellent lookout point and a popular spot for watching the sunset, particularly in the summer, although you can visit Ben A’an at any time of the year and you won’t be disappointed.
Height: 725 metres
Length of Walk: 14 Kilometres
Located: Trossachs
Difficulty: Medium
Ben Venue is small in stature but full of character. The walk up Ben Venue is varied, with forest tracks, bogs and rockier ground closer to the summit. Don’t let the boggy parts put you off. In recent years, wooden bridges have been constructed to make traversing these sections less tricky. From the summit, you’ll get to experience fantastic views of Loch Katrine.
So there you have it – there’s plenty of mountains in Scotland to chose from, no matter your hiking skill level. If you’re planning a hiking holiday in Scotland or a change of pace with golf breaks in Yorkshire or self catering holiday cottages in France and are looking for luxury accommodation in St Andrews or the highlands, contact Mill House Cottages today. Our dog friendly cottages in Scotland are the perfect holiday retreats to put your feet up and relax in after a long day spent walking.
