Ben Macdui

Hikes to Ben Macdui take you to the second highest point in the UK and the central peak of the Cairngorms’ fascinating sub-Arctic plateau. This truly is big country, containing the vast majority of Britain’s highest land. In summer, staggering sights abound, whilst winter is beautifully ethereal but very dangerous for those caught unaware.

A Cairngorm giant at the centre of ancient horror stories

All walking routes to Ben Macdui are long and committing, particularly if there is any hint of snow. The skier’s car park on Cairn Gorm is the best way to gobble up some of the ascent before the expedition begins, but it’s a long day even then. Aviemore makes for the best base, with many amenities and accommodation options. For a wilder option, cowering beneath the Devil’s Point in the Lairig Ghru, the Corrour bothy is an atmospheric place to spend a night. And, of course, you can always wild camp.

The summit is said to be the stalking ground of the legendary Am Fear Liath Mór, or the Grey Man of Ben Macdui. This ghostly apparition supposedly haunts the environs of the plateau and many hikers and mountaineers have reported feeling a presence on the mountain. It could be that the remoteness, the harshness of the elements, the starkness of the surroundings and the tangible sense of wilderness lead the superstitious to imagine such a thing. Who knows?

Ghost or not, the summit is a sensational viewpoint on a clear day. Across the Lairig Ghru pass, Cairn Toul, Sgor an Lochain Uaine and Braeriach rise above the most incredible complex of corries anywhere in Britain, an unforgettable sight. The view down Glen Dee, past the conspicuous form of the Devil’s Point, is the epitome of Highland grandeur.

In winter conditions, the Cairngorms are the UK’s most dangerous mountains due to the distances involved, potentially savage conditions and navigational difficulties. Ben Macdui is certainly the preserve of experienced mountaineers during this time.