Ben Nevis: The tallest mountain in the UK

Ben Nevis, requires little to no introduction. In the nation of Great Britain - you can’t get any higher than this. In the western end of the Grampian Mountains, soaring above glistening lochans and deep glacial valleys, sits the legendary peak of Scotland’s great mountain, a true spectacle for those who travel far and wide to witness Ben Nevis in all its natural beauty. 

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Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the scenic hills of Scotland, the summit sits at 1,345 metres (4,413 ft) above sea level. But not only Scotland, Ben Nevis is the highest peak in the United Kingdom & the British Isles, and boasts its magnitude by topping off the famous ‘3 peaks challenge’ with the most demanding summit. The challenge consists of the three highest peaks of each country in Great Britain. In summit height order, it comprises Scafell Pike in England (978 metres) & Mount Snowdon in Wales (1,085 metres), which by no means are an easy feat, but everybody silently agrees the true test is Scotland’s Ben Nevis. 

The mountain rests peacefully in the Highland region of Lochaber, close to the sleepy, yet vibrant town of Fort William. Fort William is a beautiful little town which boasts plenty of accommodation, pubs, restaurants & good views, it is also well served by train. But things weren't always so peaceful in the highlands, Ben Nevis is an ancient giant of Lochaber, once an active volcano which exploded and collapsed inwards on itself some millions of years ago. There is actually evidence of an explosion at the summit in the form of light-coloured granite. 

The name itself has two quite different translations, and you can use either one to motivate yourself up to its summit! From the ancient Gaelic language, Ben Nevis can be translated to ‘mountain with its head in the clouds’, a beautiful name to attract those in search of pure tranquillity and mystery. BUT, It can also be translated to ‘venomous mountain’, maybe more suited to thrill seekers & adventurers looking for their next adrenaline rush.

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So are you ready? But wait, when do you climb Ben Nevis? Well British summer time is the best time of the year to climb the mountain. It is when the sunshine & daylight hours are more likely to be on your side, the skies are clearer & the mountains clear of snow.

That being said, I think we all know Scottish weather has a mind of its own, so be prepared for conditions to change quickly & sometimes for the worse, anytime of year. Always be prepared for whatever the mountain wants to throw at you that day!

The mountain is a popular destination, you are more likely to see fellow explorers on your travels during the summer - and expect to pay more at accommodation during peak season. It attracts an estimated 130,000 ascents per year. The route from Glen Nevis is the most popular, also known as the Tourist trail. But don't be fooled, this doesn't mean it is easy by any means, do not go walking up there in your flip flops!

Tourist Trail Information;

Distance to the Top: 6.5 km (4 miles)

Ascent: 1300m (4275 ft)

Rough Time to the Top: 4 hours

If you want something a little more hands-on and exciting than the Mountain Path, then the Càrn Mòr Dearg Arête might be the route for you. It’s known as the CMD Arête, or even just the CMD for short.

CMD Information;

Distance to the Top: 9km (5.5 miles)

Ascent: 1390m (4550ft)

Rough Time to the Top: 4.5 hours at least

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