Hill Walking and Mountaineering
The Northwest Highlands offer some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in the United Kingdom — ancient peaks of Lewisian gneiss and Torridonian sandstone rising from a wilderness that still feels vast and untamed. From Eddrachilles, you’re ideally placed to explore this terrain, whether you’re looking for a gentle coastal walk or a full day on the ridges.
We sometimes describe it as credit card mountaineering: the chance to experience genuine Highland wilderness by day, then return to hot showers, good food, and a comfortable bed at night — rather than a bothy or tent. It’s adventure without excess hardship, and a way of exploring the mountains that suits both seasoned hillwalkers and those building experience.
If you wish to venture fully into hills and mountains here, you will need to be properly prepared. The weather can change very quickly even in summer and you need appropriate clothing and equipment. With care and experience, and perhaps with a local mountaineering guide, you can enjoy some of the finest hill walking in Scotland and venture onto fabulous ridge walks, scrambles, rock climbs.
Which Hill Suits Which Walkers
The following is not a definitive list for the North West Highlands nor detailed route planning. Rather this is a selection of walks and climbs that have been most enjoyed by Eddrachilles guests and staff. Provided here for inspiration for walkers with various levels of experience (with some gentler options at the end). More detailed information can be found on various specialist websites, for example Walk Highlands, and, of course, we will be delighted to discuss your preferences at the hotel.
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Ben Stack (721m / 2,365ft) — Graham
A rewarding half-day hill with wide views to the coast — often chosen by guests looking for a satisfying walk without a long commitment. Or by families with teenagers where enthusiasm and energy levels can fluctuate.
Distance from hotel: 30 minutes
Time required: 3–4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate — grassy slopes, relatively short but steep
Why we recommend it
For coastal views on a clear day, Ben Stack is hard to beat. It’s an excellent choice for walkers wanting a proper Highland summit without committing to a full day, and works well for outdoorsy families with teenagers whose energy levels vary. The terrain is mostly grassy rather than boulder-strewn, and you’ve a good chance of spotting golden eagles.
Some of our elopement wedding couples have even climbed Ben Stack the morning after their ceremony — a memorable way to begin married life.
Approach
Park at the base and follow the path up the southern slopes.
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Stac Pollaidh (613m / 2,011ft) — Corbett
An instantly recognisable Corbett ideal for most abilities, l
Distance from hotel: 45 minutes
Time required: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate — well-maintained path, short scramble near the summit
Why we recommend it
A favourite Assynt climb with a distinctive, instantly recognisable profile. There’s a well-provided car park at the base, and while you’re unlikely to have the mountain to yourself, it feels a world apart from the busy paths of the Lake District.
The circular route around the base offers superb views even without summiting, while the final scramble to the top is achievable for most reasonably fit walkers. It’s a popular place to learn scrambling and if you want to do that we’d recommend Hamlet Mountaineering to guide you.
Approach
Follow the path from the north-side car park. The route is clear and well maintained until the final scramble.
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Quinag (808m / 2,651ft) — Triple Corbett
Distance from hotel: 15 minutes
Time required: 5–7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging — good paths (thank you, John Muir Trust), some exposure on ridges so check weather carefully (it’s not a casual walk up a local hill).
Why we recommend it
Visible from Eddrachilles itself, Quinag offers the chance to bag three Corbetts in a single day: Spidean Coinich, Sàil Gharbh, and Sàil Ghorm. Starting from the Skiag pass reduces the overall height gain, making this a rewarding but manageable long day.
Views from each summit stretch across sea, mountain, and moor — and those three Corbetts in one day earns excellent bragging rights back at the bar.
Approach
Park at the Bealach a’ Chornaidh (Skiag) pass. Most walkers tackle Spidean Coinich first before traversing the ridge.
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Canisp (847m / 2,779ft) — Corbett
Distance from hotel: 50 minutes
Time required: 5–6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate — straightforward ascent, often boggy underfoot
Why we recommend it
Canisp is loved for its wide-ranging views across Assynt and its relative quiet compared to neighbouring peaks. While the ascent is generally straightforward, paths can become less distinct and the ground boggy in places — watch your footing.
The summit panorama includes Suilven, Cul Mor, and the coastline.
Approach
Start from a lay-by north of Loch Awe on the A837, just north of the Ledmore junction. Follow the path northeast.
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Ben Hope (927m / 3,041ft) — Munro
Distance from hotel: 1 hour
Time required: 5–6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging — sustained climb, exposed in high winds
Why we recommend it
The most northerly Munro in Scotland. While it’s a longer drive from Eddrachilles, it makes a satisfying day trip, with real pleasure in standing on the roof of the far north. On a clear day, views extend as far as Orkney.
Approach
The standard route starts from Strath More, following a path up the southern shoulder. An alternative approach begins near Dùn Dornaigil broch. The north ridge scramble is for experienced scramblers only.
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Cranstackie (800m / 2,625ft) & Beinn Spionnaidh (773m / 2,536ft) — Twin Corbetts
Distance from hotel: 50 minutes
Time required: 5–6 hours
Difficulty: Challenging — boulder fields, navigation skills essential
Why we recommend it
A rewarding twin-peak day with varied terrain: grassy slopes giving way to boulder-strewn summits. Cranstackie is marked by a cairn; Beinn Spionnaidh has a trig point — both offer superb photo opportunities.
Critical
This route requires confident use of map and compass, especially if mist descends. Paths can disappear, and navigation across the plateau demands care. We do not recommend relying on phone navigation alone.
Approach
Several routes exist, but most walkers start from Carbreck, following the track before climbing grassy slopes towards the boulder fields of the twin peaks.
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Suilven (731m / 2,398ft) — Corbett
Distance from hotel: 1 hour 15 minutes
Time required: Full day (8–10 hours)
Difficulty: Challenging — long approach, exposed scrambling on ridge
Why we recommend it
Suilven is the iconic sugar-loaf mountain of Assynt — instantly recognisable, genuinely remote, and deeply rewarding. It demands commitment: a long approach walk, exposed scrambling along the ridge to reach the main summit (Caisteal Liath), and careful planning for the return.
Critical
The ridge involves scrambling with exposure. The traverse to Meall Meadhonach is tougher still and should only be attempted by those confident with heights and scrambling. We strongly recommend hiring a mountain guide, especially on a first visit.
Approach (recommended)
Traverse from Glen Canisp Lodge to Inverkirkaig, passing the Falls of Kirkaig. This requires arranging transport at the end or walking the road back to your car.
Alternative approach
An out-and-back route from Inverkirkaig is shorter but misses the full traverse and the falls.
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Foinaven (914m / 2,999ft) & Arkle (787m / 2,582ft) — Ridge Walking
Distance from hotel: 50 minutes
Time required: Full day (8–10 hours)
Difficulty: Very challenging — remote, pathless, boulder fields, serious navigation
Why we mention it
The ridge walking across the dramatic corries of Foinaven and Arkle is spectacular, but this is for experienced mountain walkers only. Expect pathless terrain, exposure, and long sections of boulder fields in a remote setting.
For a gentler option, the track from Loch Stack offers a beautiful out-and-back walk to the base without ascending.
Critical
Mobile signal is non-existent. Weather systems arrive quickly. Carry everything you may need and be confident navigating without paths.
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Local Walks & Gentler Options
For those who prefer steadier routes, lower elevations, or dog-friendly walks, we have a range of suggestions including local coastal and woodland routes, as well as sections of the Cape Wrath Trail which passes through the area.
We’ve mapped several routes ourselves. Details and OS maps are available to borrow from reception.
We would also recommend Ullapool Tours for a very relaxing walking experience - foodie tasting walks, local history tours, shore excursions and adventure routes. Dogs (well-behaved) are welcome to join you.
Essential Hill Safety
Weather in the Northwest Highlands can change rapidly, even in summer. Mist can descend without warning, winds strengthen, and temperatures drop.
You should carry:
• Proper walking boots (not trainers)
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Warm layers (even in July)
• Map and compass — and the ability to use them
• Food, water, and emergency supplies
• Torch and whistle
• A fully charged mobile phone
Do not rely on Google Maps or phone navigation alone. Paper maps and compass skills are essential, particularly if mist descends. We keep OS maps at reception and can advise on routes suited to your experience level.
If you’re uncertain about any of these peaks, consider booking a mountain guide. Please note our local Guides book up quickly in season and should be arranged well in advance.
Guided Walks and Mountaineering
Hamlet Mountaineering
We thoroughly recommend guests taking a day (or more) with local mountain guide, Tim Hamlet, who owns Hamlet Mountaineering and will not only show you the best route for the prevailing conditions and your abilities but will also introduce you to some of the local wildlife, flora and fauna and the diverse geology and archeology of North West Highlands.
From the flanks of iconic Suilven to the stunning coastal walks around Coigach, Tim’s expertise means that he can arrange an unforgettable day for everyone. It is, however, essential to book with him well in advance.
McKenzie Mountaineering
Based in Ullapool, Mckenzie Mountaineering offer a range of one-day (as well as 3-day and 7-day) guided walks including suitable transport for linear walks which are more difficult to arrange when travelling on your own or with a fellow walker. These are, however, very popular and need to be booked as early as possible (online booking is available). Designed for 16 years and above, walks include several close to the hotel, e.g. Handa Island, Sandwood Bay as well as the Corbetts closer to Ullapool and routes that include bikes or boat trips. There’s also a very comprehensive one day hill navigation and safety course.
Ridgway Adventures - ideal for adventurous families
Closer to Eddrachilles hotel at remote Ardmore, Rebecca, Mark and their team run outstanding adventurous schools and summer camps for young people, as well as bespoke courses for adults and families, Ridgway Adventures. These usually require you to be based at the school (two houses available) rather than at our hotel. However, if this is the season of your life, we recommend this oportunity - and look forward to welcoming you or your by-then-independent children in a few years’ time!
Planning Your Day
Start early. Summer daylight is generous (dawn by 4am, dusk after 10pm in June and July), but mountain days take longer than you think. Allow time for weather delays, navigation checks, and photo stops.
Check the forecast. We’re happy to help you interpret Mountain Weather Information Service forecasts, which are more reliable for high ground than general weather apps.
Tell someone your plans. Let us know where you’re going and your expected return time. If you’re overdue, we’ll raise the alarm.
Don’t be too proud to turn back. Weather changes, energy flags, routes prove harder than expected. Returning safely is always the right decision. The mountains will still be here tomorrow.