Scotland's Top Munros: A Guide for Aspiring Peak Baggers

By JJames janvier 19, 2025

Scotland is a hiker’s paradise, especially for those who love a challenge. The country is home to 282 Munros—mountains over 3,000 feet (914 meters)—that draw peak baggers from all over the world. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, the Munros offer a thrilling adventure with some of the most stunning landscapes in the UK. If you’re looking to start your journey as a Munro bagger, here’s a guide to Scotland's top Munros that should be on your radar. Whenever climbing these peaks, please always ensure your safety.

1. Ben Nevis (1,345 meters)

No list of top Munros is complete without Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK. Located near Fort William, this towering mountain is a must-do for many Munro baggers. The summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding Highlands, including Loch Linnhe and the surrounding mountain ranges. While it’s a popular climb, especially in the summer months, it’s still a challenging ascent, especially in winter when conditions can be unpredictable.

Highlights:

The highest mountain in the UK
Fantastic views of the surrounding Highlands
A must-do for any peak bagger

2. Ben Macdui (1,309 meters)

The second-highest Munro, Ben Macdui, is located in the Cairngorms National Park. The summit provides a tranquil and remote hiking experience, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Known for its vast plateau, Ben Macdui is less crowded than Ben Nevis, making it a great choice for those looking for a peaceful adventure in the heart of the Cairngorms.

Highlights:

Peaceful and remote location
Fantastic views of the Cairngorms
Great for hikers seeking solitude

3. Braeriach (1,296 meters)

Often regarded as one of the most beautiful Munros, Braeriach is located in the Cairngorms and offers an impressive challenge. The trail to the summit takes you through rugged terrain, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding valleys and mountains. As the third-highest peak in Scotland, Braeriach is not only a rewarding climb but also a chance to experience the dramatic landscapes of the Cairngorms.

Highlights:

Impressive mountain landscapes
A challenging and rewarding hike
Stunning views of the Cairngorms

4. Schiehallion (1,083 meters)

Known as the "Mountain of the Fairies," Schiehallion is one of Scotland's most iconic Munros. Located in the central Highlands, Schiehallion offers a relatively straightforward ascent with a rewarding view from the summit. The trail is well-marked, making it suitable for hikers of all levels, and the summit offers views of Loch Tummel and the surrounding hills.

Highlights:

Relatively easy ascent
Great for beginners and experienced hikers alike
Fantastic views from the summit

5. Stob Dearg (Buachaille Etive Mor) (1,022 meters)

Buachaille Etive Mor is one of the most photographed mountains in Scotland, and for good reason. Its iconic shape and position at the entrance to Glencoe make it a must-do for any serious peak bagger. While the summit of Stob Dearg (the highest peak of Buachaille Etive Mor) offers a challenging climb, it also rewards hikers with spectacular views of the surrounding Glencoe valley and beyond.

Highlights:

Iconic, photogenic peak
Challenging ascent with stunning views
Perfect for experienced hikers

6. Sgorr Dhonuill (1,002 meters)

Sgorr Dhonuill is located in the Mamores mountain range and is one of the most striking Munros due to its rugged, rocky terrain. The climb to the summit involves scrambling over rocks, making it a more technical hike compared to others. From the summit, you’ll be treated to exceptional views of Loch Leven and the surrounding mountains.

Highlights:

Technical hike with some scrambling
Beautiful views of Loch Leven and surrounding peaks
Ideal for experienced hikers

7. The Cobbler (1,122 meters)

The Cobbler, or Ben Arthur, is a popular Munro located in the Arrochar Alps. Known for its distinctive, jagged summit, it offers one of the most enjoyable climbs in Scotland. The hike is relatively short but steep, and the final scramble to the summit adds an exciting challenge. From the top, hikers are rewarded with spectacular views of Loch Long and the surrounding mountains.

Highlights:

Iconic, jagged summit
Relatively short but steep hike
Incredible views of Loch Long and the Arrochar Alps

8. An Teallach (1,100 meters)

An Teallach, located in the far northwest Highlands, is often considered one of the most beautiful and challenging Munros. Its craggy ridgelines and dramatic views make it a rewarding hike for experienced peak baggers. The route involves some scrambling and requires a good level of fitness, but the views of the surrounding area, including Loch Broom, are more than worth the effort.

Highlights:

Stunning ridgelines and dramatic views
Challenging scramble
Remote and peaceful location

9. Carn Mor Dearg (1,220 meters)

Located just north of Ben Nevis, Carn Mor Dearg is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor. However, this Munro offers a quieter, more tranquil alternative to Ben Nevis. The climb is a bit more strenuous but offers amazing views over Loch Linnhe and the surrounding mountains, as well as an impressive view of Ben Nevis from a different angle.

Highlights:

Quieter alternative to Ben Nevis
Great views of Loch Linnhe and Ben Nevis
A challenging climb with rewarding vistas

10. Ben Lawers (1,214 meters)

Ben Lawers, located in the central Highlands, is one of Scotland's most popular Munros. With its panoramic views of Loch Tay and the surrounding mountains, it’s no surprise that it attracts hikers from all over. The trail to the summit is well-maintained, making it a good choice for those looking for a relatively straightforward but rewarding hike.

Highlights: