The Scottish Highlands are a favourite destination for hikers from around the UK as well as internationally. As domestic holidays continue to be popular this year, even the remote mountains of Scotland may not feel isolated enough for some people’s taste. However, it is very easy to stray off the beaten track, starting with the lesser known Corbetts of Glen Coe.
Corbetts are Scottish mountains of between 2,500ft and 3,000ft. There must be a drop of at least 500ft between each Corbett and any adjacent higher peak. There are 221 Corbetts in Scotland, named after the Scottish Mountaineering Club member John Rooke Corbett, who listed and climbed all the peaks in the 1920s and 30s.
Here are some lesser-known hills in the popular Glen Coe region, that are very accessible, yet unlikely to leave you following the crowds.
Beinn a’ Chrulaiste
Apparently, it’s pronounced ‘Ben a Kru Layst’, and just known as Chrulaiste to the locals (Ben or Beinn being the Scots Gaelic word for mountain).
This Corbett lies to the east of Glen Coe, and it usually receives much less attention than its more famous neighbours. However, it’s a rewarding climb, offering superb panoramic views of the Highland peaks, glens, and lochs.
You may spot some ‘in the know’ photographers doing their stuff, especially at dawn or dusk, because the views are so spectacular. In the main though, it’s not a honeypot peak, if splendid isolation is more your bag.
There are three routes to the summit. The route from the Altnafeadh carpark has some boggy sections and can be steep in places. There is an alternative route, beginning from the Kings House Hotel, which is a more gradual ascent up the West Ridge. The walk should take about 6 or 7 hours, depending on the weather conditions and your fitness levels.
Garbh Bheinn
This is a shorter walk that also offers panoramic views, taking in Ben Nevis and the famous Aonach Eagach Ridge hike, which is on the bucket list of many mountaineers across the globe! The walk itself is fairly easy, although it can be boggy, especially in the wetter months.
It can be completed in about three hours, so it’s ideal if you want to pack in other activities during the day, or save it for a summer evening outing.
Beinn Trilleachan
This is a ridge that runs level with the beautiful 30km long Loch Etive. The path is accessed down the Glen Etvie track, and leads up the north east ridge. It is not a hugely difficult climb; however, it is advisable to retrace your route rather than attempt to descend the south west side, as the steep gullies mean this is only for the most experienced rock climbers.
The mountain is known for the Etvie Slabs, which are sheer drops of granite with very few hand or foot holds. All but the most expert climbers should enjoy the spectacular views along Glen Coe, and then return safely the way they came! The route should take around five hours.
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