Argyll, Cowal & the Southern Hebrides

Argyll, Cowal and the Southern Hebrides combine mainland mountains, wooded sea lochs and islands whose hills rise directly from the Atlantic. It is a scattered region, connected as much by ferries and water as by roads.

Ben Cruachan forms its mountainous northern anchor. The summit stands above Loch Awe and a vast hydroelectric power station hidden inside the mountain. Farther south, Cowal offers rough Corbetts, quiet Grahams and long approaches through forests and glens. Beinn an Lochain provides a sharp rocky ridge, while Beinn Bheula and Beinn Mhor overlook an intricate coastline of sea lochs and peninsulas.

The islands have distinct characters. Jura is dominated by three great quartzite summits known as the Paps. Their full traverse is a demanding day across pathless slopes and loose scree. Islay’s highest point, Beinn Bheigier, rises above the island’s quieter eastern side, while Colonsay offers lower walking through machair, dunes and rocky coastline.

Between the mountains lie Atlantic oakwoods, abandoned settlements, prehistoric sites and exceptionally remote shores. Paths can be faint, the ground frequently wet and ferry timetables may dictate the shape of an entire journey. This is not a single mountain range but a collection of wild landscapes, each separated by water and united by the western weather.