A' Chraileag [A' Chralaig]

About A' Chraileag [A' Chralaig]

Dominating the northern skyline of Glen Shiel, this high-altitude Munro provides a substantial day out on a massive, steep-sided ridge. While the initial ascent is a relentless grassy haul, it eventually yields to a fine, rocky crest with spectacular views across the wild, uninhabited interior of the North West Highlands.

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Did You Know?

• •The name derives from the Scottish Gaelic A' Chràlaig, meaning 'The Basket' or 'The Creel'. This likely refers to the mountain's steep, hollowed-out western corries, which resemble the shape of a traditional wicker basket used for carrying peat or fish.
• •Despite its height, it is rarely climbed in isolation, usually forming the first half of a classic duo with Mullach Fraoch-choire to the north. The two are joined by a high, undulating ridge that narrows significantly as it approaches the latter's pinnacle-guarded summit.
• •The summit is marked by an unusually large and well-constructed stone cairn, providing a reliable landmark for walkers navigating the broad, often mist-shrouded plateau that precedes the final pull to the top.
• •From the 1120-metre summit, you are rewarded with a commanding perspective over the 'Remote Highlands', including the long waters of Loch Mullardoch to the north and the jagged, multi-peaked ridge of the South Shiel Munros across the glen to the south.
• •While the climb from the A87 is efficient, the mountain seems to have been designed by someone who enjoys a false sense of security; the gentle lower slopes do little to prepare your legs for the relentless, steep grind required to reach the main ridge.