Corbetts in Scotland You Need to Climb

There are 221 Corbetts in Scotland, which are defined as hills that reach between 2,500 and 3,000 ft high, creating the perfect stepping stone between gentler Grahams (between 2,000 and 2,500 ft) and towering Munros (over 3,000 ft).

You can find Corbetts across Scotland, all surrounded by stunning scenery and boasting magnificent views from the summit. Some are even nestled away in the landscape, making for an even more tranquil outing in Scotland.

  1. Beinn Chuirn Argyll

    Beinn Chuirn, Argyll

    © @sassenach.photography

    Head west, near Tyndrum, where Beinn Chuirn awaits. Sitting in the shadow of neighbouring Munro, Ben Lui, it's a gold mine to explore. Speaking of gold mines, did you know Tyndrum has its own nearby? Cononish Glen is home to a gold mine, and although you can't get up close, it's still a fascinating insight to the land you're walking on. Soak in the dramatic scenery as you hike your way to the top of Beinn Chuirn.

    Height: 880m (2887 ft)
    Distance: 16km/10miles
    Time: 5.5-6 hours

  2. Sgòr Mòr Cairngorms

    Sgòr Mòr, Cairngorms

    Travel to one of Scotland's glorious National Parks for a day of exploring the trails of Sgòr Mòr. The Cairngorms National Park is a spectacular place to explore on foot, with hundreds of trails and paths to follow. Sgòr Mòr is an expansive hill, stretching between Glen Luibeg and Glen Dee, and is renowned as one of the best viewpoints in the Cairngorms.

    Height: 813m (2667 ft) 
    Distance: 20.75km/13miles
    Time: 6-7 hours

  3. Goat Fell Isle of Arran

    Goat Fell, Arran

    © @lenny.the.dachshund_

    A popular summit you may have heard of, Goat Fell is the highest peak on the Isle of Arran and a great place to explore whilst visiting this spectacular west coast island. Climbing Goat Fell is incredibly rewarding, and the route links together other peaks in the north of the island, including its three other Corbetts, that you can tick off along the way too. From the top you can see across the islands and beyond, as well as a variety of landmarks too, including Brodick Bay, and north towards Rothesay on the Isle of Bute.

    Height: 874m (2867 ft)
    Distance: 10.5km/6.5miles
    Time: 4.5-6 hours

  4. Sgùrr an Airgid Kintail, Highlands

    Sgùrr an Airgid, The Highlands

    © @the_ultra_vegan_buddha

    Nestled amongst the grander peaks of Kintail, Sgùrr an Airgid is a shorter climb in comparison and offers a relatively straightforward ascent, revealing some of the region's most magnificent views, as well as being a great introduction to higher mountains in the area too.

    Height: 841m (2759 ft)
    Distance: 10.5km/6.5miles
    Time: 4.5-6 hours

  5. The Cobbler Loch Lomond

    Ben Arthur

    © VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

    Another popular peak for walking enthusiasts and locals alike, The Cobbler mountain is located in Scotland's other National Park - Loch Lomond & The Trossachs - and is an ideal spot for hiking, amongst other activities too. Also known as Ben Arthur, it is a distinct peak in the landscape and the Cobbler walk features a zig zag path before a pleasant ascent to the summit, and also encompasses both main peaks along the route too.
    The true summit of Ben Arthur is quite high and exposed, so if you don't have a head for heights, this might not be the Corbett for you.

    Height: 884m (2900 ft)
    Distance: 11km/7.25miles
    Time: 4-6 hours

  6. An Sìdhean Loch Ness

    An Sìdhean, Loch Ness

    © @shi_monik

    Not far from the iconic Loch Ness, you'll find the secluded round-top Corbett, An Sìdhean, nestled in the remote wilderness of the Highlands. You can access this Corbett via the road up Glen Strathfarrar, and once you set off on foot, you'll find good stalkers paths on the ascent, making it a relatively straightforward walk amongst beautiful surroundings.

    Height: 814m (2670 ft)
    Distance: 17km/10.5miles
    Time: 6-7 hours

  7. Clisham Outer Hebrides

    Traigh Iar Beach Near Horgabost

    © VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

    Start your island adventure exploring the highest peak in the Outer Hebrides, Clisham. Scotland's islands are magnificent places to be, and from the summit of this Corbett, you'll be able to see incredible panoramic sights all around you. You can take the direct walk to the top, or choose the slightly longer Clisham Horseshoe route which takes you over the dramatic and rugged ridges of Mulla-Fo-Thuath and Mulla-Fo-Dheas.

    Height: 799m (2621 ft)
    Distance: 5.25km/3.25miles
    Time: 3.5-4 hours

  8. Ben Vrackie Perthshire

    Ben Vrackie, Perthshire

    © @annamaie990

    One of Scotland's best known Corbetts, Ben Vrackie frames the pretty Highland Perthshire town of Pitlochry and is surrounded by miles of countryside, woodland, and forestry. The Ben Vrackie walk is an easy trail to follow with picturesque views from the summit - a popular climb for visiting enthusiasts and local walkers too.

    Height: 841m (2759 ft)
    Distance: 10km/6.25miles
    Time: 3.5-4 hours

  9. Arkle Sutherland, North Highlands

    Arkle, Sutherland

    © @dancingmidgephotography

    Located in the north west Highlands, and lesser known than the neighbouring peak of Foinaven, Arkle boasts a glorious walk to uncover. Featuring a fine, curving ridge of shattered quartzite, it's a rewarding climb for any budding geologists or photographers.

    Height: 787m (2582 ft)
    Distance: 17.5km/11miles
    Time: 6-7 hours

  10. Cùl Mòr Assynt, North Highlands

    A view of Cùl Mòr in the North West Highland Geopark

    © VisitScotland / Airborne Lens

    Only in Scotland will you find a peak as magnificent as Cùl Mòr - this picture speaks for itself! Start your climb from the east and enjoy a reasonably straightforward ascent to the top. Take in the magnificent views over the other isolated monoliths of Assynt and Coigach, including Stac Pollaidh and Suilven.

    Height: 849m (2785 ft)
    Distance: 13.5km/8.5miles
    Time: 4-5.5 hours

How to climb hills responsibly

Although Corbetts are slightly smaller than Munros, they still provide challenging days out in the mountains, so it is still essential you are prepared and properly equipped for venturing out into Scotland's landscapes. 

1. Don't forget to take a Corbett map and compass with you

2. Brush up on Safety Outdoors in Scotland 

3. Read and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code

4. Check out Mountaineering Scotland for safety advice

5. Take a look at WalkHighlands for full details of the routes

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