Scotland is famed for its rugged wilderness. And there is perhaps nowhere in the UK which feels farther from the bustle of civilisation than at the summit of a mighty munro.
Climbing a mountain brings with it a spectacular sense of achievement. So much so that in Scotland there is a challenge known as ‘munro-bagging’ –reaching the summit of all 282 of Scotland’s mountains which are taller than 3,000ft.
But which are the greatest challenges of them all?
If you’ve ever climbed Arthur’s Seat and thought that was quite high, Ben Nevis is the height of more than five Arthur’s Seats on top of each other.
We take a look at the very highest munros in Scotland, and how difficult each one is to climb.
Remember these mountains are dangerous and extreme environments, even in favourable conditions. Make sure you are prepared with the correct equipment and research before you take any of these on.
Visit walkhighlands.co.uk or visitscotland.com for more information.
5. Sgòr an Lochain Uaine
Sgòr an Lochain Uaine is 1,258m (4,127 ft) and part of the Cairngorms mountain range. Sgòr an Lochain Uaine means 'peak of the little green loch' which it has on its south east peak. Some old maps call it The Angel's Peak, and it's usually climbed alongside other munros like neighbouring Cairn Toul and Braeriach. This route takes around 13 hours and can be split over two days. Photo: Google
6. Cairn Gorm
Cairn Gorm is so good they named the whole mountain range after it. Standing at 1,245m (4,085ft), it has a ski centre, restaurant, and funicular railway so is probably the busiest munro of this list. From the car park the walk is just under 9k and takes two and a half to three and a half hours. Photo: Getty
7. Aonach Beag and Aonach Mòr
Aonach Beag is a memorable 1,234m (4,048ft) and can be found just a few miles from Ben Nevis. Walkers tend to traverse the route to Aonach Beag and Aonach Mòr - the next highest Munro at 1,220m (4,004ft) - together from Glen Nevis, which you can catch a bus to. This takes around seven to 10 hours over a distance of over 16km (10 miles). Good navigational skills are a must and there is a steep descent from Aonach Mòr, with boggy ground lower down. But there are of course superb views from the top of these extraordinary mountains. Photo: Google
8. Càrn Mòr Dearg
Imagine seeing that in real life. The 'big red hill' Càrn Mòr Dearg is 1,223m (4,012ft). It is considered the perfect viewpoint to gaze at Ben Nevis' north face (pictured), and some walkers climb Ben Nevis via Càrn Mòr Dearg Arête. This is for experienced, physically fit walkers who don't mind the odd scramble. Walk Highlands says: "This is a truly spectacular route incorporating two Munros. It will live long in the memory and does true justice to the mountain." Photo: Getty Images/ Canva Pro