Scotland

Scotland is not one mountain landscape but dozens of them, each with its own character. The Cairngorms spread across vast plateaux shaped by Arctic weather, while Glen Coe and Lochaber concentrate steep ridges, volcanic crags and some of the country’s greatest mountain routes into a comparatively small area.

Farther north, Torridonian sandstone forms the terraced giants of Liathach, Beinn Alligin and An Teallach. Beyond Ullapool, isolated mountains such as Suilven and Stac Pollaidh rise abruptly from a wilderness of moorland, rock and scattered lochs. The islands add another dimension: Skye’s Cuillin demand scrambling and mountaineering skills, while Arran, Mull, Rum and Harris offer ridges that rise almost directly from the sea.

Scotland’s lower hills should not be treated as supporting acts. The Ochils, Pentlands and Campsies provide accessible ridge walking, while the Southern Uplands offer long, quiet days across rolling ground where another walker can be something of an event.

The famous challenge is completing all 282 Munros, but Scotland rewards a broader approach. Corbetts, Grahams, coastal hills and pathless island summits often provide greater solitude. Height is only part of the story here; distance, weather, terrain and remoteness usually have rather more to say about the day.