Ben Hope

The most northerly Munro, Ben Hope draws hikers from all around to summit its majestic, remote peak. At 3,041 feet (927 m), this distinctive mountain is not just high, but it offers breathtaking views of the steely Atlantic and the beautiful Orkney Islands, scattered to the north east. 

Despite its isolated nature, hiking to the summit of Ben Hope isn’t necessarily a lengthy walk thanks to the car park a little south of Loch Hope. There’s little gradual terrain though on this hike and you’ll be ascending on steep ground until you reach the trig point at the thankfully flat top. 

An enduring climbs with phenomenal views

Hikes up Ben Hope might be steep but you can stop at any point to admire the fantastic scenery. Walking up from the south west, craggy terrain towers above Strath More and the winding Strathmore River. 

Reaching the summit, the landscape reveals its full, unadulterated glory and you’ll see why others make significant journeys to reach this Munro. Rising out of knock and lochan terrain, on a clear day you can see the Orkney Islands, and enjoy immense vistas across the sea. The northern ridge drops sharply away from the summit, providing a magnificent sight but also revealing how carefully you should tread in poor visibility. Looking south, the remote wilderness is breathtaking with hardly a sign of human habitation in sight. 

Winter conditions can bring snow and ice making Ben Hope a mountain for experienced winter mountaineers only in such conditions. Mild winters are more welcoming although strong winds can be dangerous. Lacking much in the way of technicality, hiking Ben Hope is a great adventure for most hillwalkers with a desire for height and phenomenal views.