Walking in Scotland's Far North

62 mountain walks in Scotland’s north-west peninsula, north of Ullapool. Mainly day walks, taking in peaks such as Suilven, Quinag, Morven and Scaraben, with three longer mountain traverses (Assynt Horseshoe, a Raey traverse and a long ascent of Cranstackie).

The old counties of Ross and Cromarty, Sutherland, and Caithness, forming Scotland's north west peninsula, contain some of the country's most spectacular scenery, and boast many of the most shapely and challenging hills in the British Isles. Stack Polly, Suilven, and Ben Loyal have been favourite postcard peaks for generations, and many visitors come to the far north just to enjoy the unique scenery with its knobbly gneiss moors, jutting peaks, rugged coastline and unspoilt villages.

For these visitors, the far north provides almost endless possibilities. Attractions include boat trips to interesting offshore islands with impressive sea cliffs and colonies of sea birds, fascinating antiquities tracing Scotland's history from stone-age man to the shameful clearances, and a number of low-level scenic attractions such as Britain's highest waterfall and some of the best beaches in the UK.

For the more adventurous visitor, the hills offer a wealth of challenging and enjoyable outings, from simple half-day walks to demanding multi-day expeditions, and all in the most wild and lonely terrain that Scotland has to offer.

This guide, selectively covering the whole northern peninsula from Ullapool northwards, will be a valuable aid for any visitor to the area, giving information on camping and accommodation, road access, local bases, topography and climate, as well as 62 walking routes varying in length from 3km to 56km.