Munros in Scotland

What is a Munro?

Rising above the green glens, shimmering lochs and lush rolling hills are Munros, mountains that are over 3,000 ft (914 m) in height. Found across Scotland, they offer a chance to climb higher and experience Scotland’s wild landscapes from a different perspective.

What is Munro bagging?

Munro bagging is a popular pastime in Scotland where walking enthusiasts challenge themselves to climb as many of Scotland’s 282 Munros as they can, whether that’s planning to bag their first summit or dreaming of completing them all.

From grassy slopes and twisting paths to rugged ridgelines and rocky summits, every Munro has its own rhythm and no two climbs feel quite the same. Some routes are more accessible than others, but none are without their challenges. Wander through pinewoods and across open heathered moors, or venture into windswept crags where the crisp air bites your cheeks. You might trek for hours through thick fog where paths fade into mist, or hike under vibrant, blue sky, with wildflowers adding colour to the hillside meadows – the adventure is yours to choose.

Over 6,000 people, called 'compleatists' (or Munroists) have climbed them all so far.

Beginner-friendly

There is nothing quite like reaching your first Munro. Feel your legs warm up as you walk up winding paths, with the fresh scent of woodlands all around you. Watch the landscape open with every step as you near the top, then pause to soak up the far-reaching panoramas. The moment you take in the breathtaking views more than makes up for the efforts, we promise.

These mountains are a great introduction to Munro bagging:

Ben Lomond, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park – a well-defined path that climbs away from the shore of Loch Lomond, offering a stunning sight of the islands scattered across the water.

Schiehallion, Perthshire – a straightforward route from open slopes to rocky ground, Schiehallion rewards with sweeping panoramic mountain views of the area and the distant Highlands. 

Mount Keen, Angus – a longer walk through open moorland and rolling hills with striking landscape of the Cairngorms and Angus Glens, this is Scotland’s most easterly Munro.

Discover more beginner-friendly Munros

Famous climbs

Some mountains are more than just a peak on the horizon – they are legendary sights and part of Scotland’s identity. Their popularity means the most famous routes can get busy, so plan ahead, consider quieter alternatives or visit outside the peak season for a different experience.

Climb one of Scotland’s best-known peaks:  

Ben Nevis, Highlands – feel the thrill of reaching the summit of the highest mountain in Britain, standing proudly above Fort William. On a clear day, the views seem to stretch forever, but catch it on a misty day, and it takes on a mysterious feel.

Ben Lawers, Perthshire – great views of Loch Tay and well-marked scenic trails through a diverse National Nature Reserve. From alpine plants to heathers, take a moment to take in the grand scenery as you make your way to the top.

Buachaille Etive Beag, Highlands – dramatic views of Glen Coe and great vantage points of Buachaille Etive Mòr, you get two Munros in one. Get ready to get your heart rate up quickly, as the climb takes you from grassy slopes to rocky scree near the upper ascent.

Hidden gems

Swap the well-trodden trails for quieter paths and enjoy a slower pace. Whether exploring solo or with friends, take a moment to pause along the way, pour a hot drink from your flask and enjoy the simple joy of being outdoors.

Check out these less-visited corners of Scotland:

Mayar and Driesh, Angus – a memorable day out through the spectacular Corrie Fee National Nature Reserve in Glen Clova, with dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls and sweeping mountain vistas.

Beinn Mheadhoin, Cairngorms – a summit resembling a Martian landscape, scattered with granite tors (rocky outcrops rising abruptly from the surrounding smooth slope).

Meall nan Tarmachan, Perthshire – a relatively quick trek with impressive views, best experienced by following the airy Tarmachan Ridge for a little adventure along the way.

Munros accessible by public transport

Leave the car behind, settle into a train or a bus and watch Scotland’s changing scenery unfold from the window. With a bit of careful planning, you can reach several Munros by public transport, making the journey part of your adventure – and more sustainable. Pull on your walking boots, breathe the fresh air and set off towards the summit.

Pick one of these most accessible Munros:

Arrochar Alps, Argyll – these mountains (Beinn Narnain, Beinn Ime, Ben Vane and Ben Vorlich) all sit on the west side of Loch Lomond, conveniently on the Citylink Scotland / Ember bus routes from Glasgow to Fort William.

Beinn a' Chlèibh, Argyll – travel along the scenic West Highland Line from Glasgow towards Oban/Fort William and alight at Tyndrum. Walk through open moorland and rugged upland terrain, with views stretching towards the vast landscapes around the area.

Beinn Dòrain & Beinn an Dòthaidh, Argyll – both Munros are conveniently located next to Bridge of Orchy railway station, with bus services also stopping nearby at the Bridge of Orchy Hotel for CityLink services. Expect steep ascents, grassy slopes and rocky terrain, and views of Rannoch Moor and the surrounding glens from the top.

Càrn na Caim and A'Bhuidheanach Bheag, Cairngorms National Park – start your journey from Dalwhinnie, which is served by both train and bus routes. From the village, head into Drumochter hills for a fantastic day in the Highlands, where you can experience the changing colour of the landscape and a great sense of wilderness.