Scotland Peter Irvine’s the best
Serious walks Grab your hiking boots and protective clothing and challenge yourself on some rewarding treks.
Aonach Eagach
One of several possible major expeditions in the Glen Coe area and one of the world’s classic ridge walks. Not for the faint-hearted or ill-prepared. It’s the ridge on your right from Altnafeadh to the road to the Clachaig Inn. Start from main road, at (very small) car park opposite the one for the Lost Valley. Stiff pull up then the switchback path across. There is no turning back. Scary pinnacles two-thirds over, then one more Munro and the kneetrembling, scree-running descent. On your way, you’ll have seen Lochaber in its immense glory and reconnoitred some exposed edges
Five Sisters of Kintail and the Cluanie Ridge
Both generally started from A87 along from Cluanie Inn and they will keep you right; usually walked east to west. Sisters is an uncomplicated ridge walk, taking in three Munros and two tops. It’s a hard pull up and you descend to a point five miles further up the road (so arrange transport). Many side spurs to vantage points and wild views. The Cluanie or south ridge is a classic which covers seven Munros. Starts at inn; Two ways off back on to A876. Both can be walked in a day (Cluanie allow nine hours). From Morvich off A87 near Shiel Bridge another long-distance walk starts to Glen Affric.
Glenmore Forest Park
From Coylumbridge and Loch Morlich; 20 miles through the Rothiemurchus Forest and the famous Lairig Ghru, the ancient right of way through the Cairngorms which passes between Ben Macdui and Braeriach. The famous shelter, Corrour Bothy between Devil’s Point and Càrn a’ Mhàim, can be a halfway house. Near Linn of Dee, routes converge and pass through the ancient Caledonian Forest of Mar. Going east–west is less gruelling!
None of these should be attempted without OS maps, equipment and preparation. Hill or ridge-walking experience may be essential.
Peter Irvine is the author of the essential travel guide Scotland the Best published by Collins, priced £15.99