Buachaille Etive Mòr
About Buachaille Etive Mòr
The "Great Herdsman of Etive" is one of Scotland's most iconic mountains, guarding the entrance to Glen Coe. Its pyramid shape is recognized worldwide.
Height & Prominence of Buachaille Etive Mòr
Buachaille Etive Mòr stands at 1022 metres (3353 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 672 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Buachaille Etive Mòr is part of the Grampian Mountains. The OS grid reference is NN 223543, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Buachaille Etive Mòr carries the classifications of Munro, Marilyn. As a Munro, it is one of Scotland's 282 summits over 3,000 ft (914.4 m), as originally catalogued by Sir Hugh Munro in 1891.
Location & Nearest Towns
Buachaille Etive Mòr is located in Scotland, Highland. It sits in the Glen Coe area.
For official access information and any seasonal restrictions, check the relevant national park authority.
Safety Tips
Always check forecasts before setting out. Summit conditions differ dramatically from valley level.
Carry map, compass/GPS, water, food, first aid, whistle, torch, and waterproofs.
Tell someone your route and return time. Stick to marked paths. Be ready to turn back.
Ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Know your grid reference.
On the Mountain: Walking Buachaille Etive Mòr
Buachaille Etive Mòr is a moderate walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 1022m, where conditions can feel distinctly different from the valley — wind speeds are typically 30–50% stronger above 800m, and the temperature drops roughly 1°C for every 100m of ascent. In cloud, the cairn at the top can be hard to spot, so keep a map and compass to hand even on well-marked paths.
After your walk, the nearest village is a good place for a pint and a debrief. For detailed route descriptions and trip reports from other walkers, Walkhighlands is an excellent resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buachaille Etive Mòr one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Buachaille Etive Mòr is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 1022m elevation, and moderate difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Buachaille Etive Mòr?
Buachaille Etive Mòr has a difficulty rating of Moderate. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Buachaille Etive Mòr?
The best season is Spring to Autumn. Summit temperatures are typically 5–10°C colder than the valley, and conditions can change rapidly.
Why Visit Buachaille Etive Mòr?
Buachaille Etive Mòr stands at 1022m (3353ft) in Scotland, Highland. Classified as a Munro and Marilyn, it is a rewarding destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers.
Browse our UK mountains directory to discover more peaks, or see all mountains A–Z.
Nearby Peaks to Explore
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