Environment: Acre scheme means unique gift for keen walkers

Mountaineers from around the world are being given a unique opportunity this festive season to “adopt an acre” of four of Scotland’s iconic mountains – including the UK’s tallest, Ben Nevis.

The John Muir Trust is inviting outdoor lovers to help preserve Scotland’s finest Munros: Ben Nevis, Schiehallion in Perthshire, Blà Bheinn on Skye and Ladhar Bheinn in Knoydart.

The “Adopt an Acre” scheme entitles members of the public to purchase a plot at a cost of £25, which will remain in their name for a year.

All proceeds from the campaign will be used to help fund conservation work on each of the four mountains.

This will include maintaining and repairing footpaths, landscape enhancement and wildlife protection.

The scheme, which was first launched by the charity in 2016, has proven to be a resounding success as hundreds of acres have already been snapped up as a unique gift this Christmas.

Daisy Clark of the John Muir Trust said: “We’ve been delighted at the response to our Adopt an Acre scheme, with many people welcoming

“An alternative to the annual festive frenzy of consumerism”

the opportunity to do something a bit different as an alternative to the annual festive frenzy of consumerism that we all tend to get swept away with this time of year.

“It’s the perfect gift for anyone who loves nature and the outdoors; whether seasoned climbers and Munro-baggers, walkers, wildlife enthusiasts or those who just appreciate Scotland’s magnificent mountain scenery.”

Each gift pack includes a personalised adoption certificate of your chosen mountain as well as a signed letter of adoption and an information leaflet helping you stay better informed about your mountain.

Ben Nevis is the UK’s tallest and most famous mountain at 4,412ft and it spans 4,300 acres of land. Schiehallion – the so called Fairy Hill of the Caledonians – has more than 2,000 acres of heathland and grassland stretching up to the rocky slopes of the summit. The peak stands at 3,553ft.

Bla Bheinn on the Isle of Skye showcases one of the country’s most astonishing landscapes overlooking the Cuillin Hills.

It reaches 3,044ft at its highest point and is mainly composed of gabbro, a rock that provides excellent grip.

Ladhar Bheinn is one of the country’s more remote Munros and is 3,346ft.