What is a Munro and how many are there?
The term Munro is applied to a Scottish mountain that has over 3,000ft (914m) of elevation. As you can see from the definition, there is no ‘easy’ Munro to climb, which is one reason they are so popular with hikers. The name Munro comes from Sir Hugh Munro, who put the list together back in 1891 for the Scottish Mountaineering Club’s journal. Sir Hugh Munro’s list caused quite the stir: Popular opinion at the time was the number of mountains exceeding 3,000ft was around 30, whereas Munro’s list totalled 283.
‘Munro bagging’ — the term given to a person who reaches the summit — is not only a challenge but also seems to become somewhat of an obsession. The first person to ever complete the full list was Rev. Archibald Eneas Robertson back in 1901. Since then, over 5,000 people have registered completing the feat with the Scottish Mountaineering Club. Currently the fastest time to complete all 282 Munros (the current total number) is 31 days, 10 hours and 27 minutes – a record set by Jamie Aarons in June 2023.
Popular Munros and where to find them
Ben Nevis
Perhaps the most well-known and most popular Munro with hill walkers is Ben Nevis, standing at 4,413ft (1,345m) making it the highest mountain in Britain. Located in the Scottish Highlands close to Fort William it is estimated over 150,000 people attempt this monster Munro every year.
Buachaille Etive Mòr
Also residing in the Scottish Highlands, this 3,143 (958m) in Glencoe is potentially the most photographed mountain in Scotland, often appearing on postcards and in calendars. 13km (8 miles) in length, this steep, scrambly hike will take you around 7-9 hours to complete in summer conditions. If attempting this one, why not bag two whilst you are at it? Its neighbour Buachaille Etive Beag is impressive in its own right and offers stunning views of Loch Etive.
Ben Macdui
Coming in behind Ben Nevis, the second highest mountain in Britain, Ben Macdui stands at 4,295ft (1,309m) and is situated on the southwestern edge of the Cairngorm Plateau. Well-known for their rugged wildness the Cairngorms offer multiple challenging walks, and this popular Munro is no exception. Excellent navigation skills are required on the plateau as it is very exposed. This can be an extremely tricky walk in the snow, and should only be attempted with the right equipment and knowledge of how to use it.
Are there any Munros for beginners?
The terms Munro and beginner don’t really go together at all — but there are options available for those wanting a slightly easier start to their Munro bagging experience.
Ben Lomond
This is one of the most popular Munros and quite often the first one that people complete. Located close to Glasgow on the east shore of Loch Lomond, it stands at 3,193ft (974m) and is also one of the busiest mountains in Scotland. The hike should take between 5-6 hours depending on your ability level.
Mount Keen
The most easterly of the Munros and located in the Cairngorms National Park, Mount Keen is 3,081ft (939m). This is one of the most straightforward mountains to climb, as there is a good path leading to the summit. The shortest route is to tackle this Munro from Glen Esk, which should take between 5-6 hours depending on your ability level.
Fionn Bheinn
Located in the Northwest Highlands, Fionn Bheinn stands at 3,061ft (933m) and offers stunning views from the summit. It is also good practice climbing wet and boggy terrain, so maybe not one to attempt on an already wet day. The route is 12km (7.5) miles and will take approximately 5-6 hours depending on your ability level.
