Meall Garbh
About Meall Garbh
Meall Garbh is part of the Ben Lawers massif and offers superb views across Loch Tay and the Southern Highlands. It sits between Ben Lawers and An Stùc on a classic ridge walk.
Height & Prominence of Meall Garbh
Meall Garbh stands at 1118 metres (3668 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 178 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Meall Garbh is part of the Ben Lawers Group. The OS grid reference is NN 644436, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Meall Garbh carries the classification of Munro. 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
Meall Garbh is located in Scotland, Perth and Kinross, within Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. It sits in the Ben Lawers Group area. The nearest towns and villages include Killin, Ben Lawers, An Stuc, and others, where you can find accommodation, pubs, and supplies before or after your walk.
For official access information and any seasonal restrictions, check the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park authority.
Interesting Facts
- Part of the Ben Lawers massif with its rare mountain flora
- Can be combined with Ben Lawers and An Stuc for a three-Munro day
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 Meall Garbh
Meall Garbh is a moderate walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 1118m, 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 — Killin — 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.
Nearby Dining
- Killin cafes
- Kenmore Hotel
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Meall Garbh one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Meall Garbh is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 1118m elevation, and moderate difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Meall Garbh?
Meall Garbh has a difficulty rating of Moderate. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Meall Garbh?
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 Meall Garbh?
Meall Garbh stands at 1118m (3668ft) in Scotland, Perth and Kinross. Classified as a Munro, 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.
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