Meall Fuar-mhonaidh

At 699m, the highest summit around Loch Ness with the finest views in the Great Glen. Walkable directly from Ancarraig Lodges through ancient woodland paths.

Difficulty

Moderate

Distance

5.7 mi

Duration

3.5–4 h

Elevation

573m ascent

From Ancarraig

Walkable from lodges (or 10 min drive) (From your door)

Meall Fuar-mhonaidh ('Hill of the Cold Slopes') is the defining walk of the Ancarraig experience. At 699 metres, this Graham peak is the highest summit around Loch Ness—and from your lodge door, you can walk directly to the trailhead through ancient birch and hazel woodland.

The ascent follows a well-trodden path through native woodland before opening onto moorland, where the gradient steepens. The final push to the summit is rewarded with Scotland's most spectacular 360° panorama: the full length of Loch Ness stretching below, Ben Nevis to the south, the Moray Firth to the north, and the Cairngorms beyond.

This is mountain walking at its most accessible and authentic. No long drive, no crowded car parks—just step outside your lodge, and within four hours, you'll be standing on the roof of the Great Glen.

At a Glance

What to Expect

The route begins gently through mature woodland before transitioning to open moorland around 400m. The path is well-defined throughout, though can be boggy in sections (waterproof boots essential). Th...

Top Tips

•Start early (before 9am) to catch golden hour light and avoid crowds—the summit ...
•The upper slopes are boggy year-round. Waterproof boots are essential, not optio...
•Autumn (September-October) transforms the woodland approach into a blaze of copp...

Practical

Parking

Park at Ancarraig Lodges (for guests) or at the trailhead la...

Cost

Free

Planning Your Visit

Seasonal Guide

Spring (Apr-May)

Birch woodlands burst into fresh green leaf, wildflowers carpet the forest floor, and birdsong fills the canopy. Longer daylight hours and fewer midges make this ideal for early starts. Snow may linger on the summit in April.

Summer (Jun-Aug)

Warmest months with longest daylight, but peak midge season. Start before 9am to avoid midges and heat. The summit stays light until 10pm in midsummer—magical for evening walks.

Autumn (Sep-Oct)

Scotland's finest season. Birch and hazel woodlands turn copper and gold, weather is stable, midges have retreated, and you'll often have the mountain to yourself. Our favourite time.

Winter (Nov-Mar)

Snow transforms the summit into an alpine wonderland, but requires winter skills, crampons, and ice axe. Shorter daylight limits summit time. Best left to experienced winter walkers.