Location: Isle of Mull

Location: Isle of Mull

Map: OS Landranger 48 (GR 507367)

Distance: 8 miles (13 km)

Time: 5 hours

Terrain: hill paths

Ben More is the highest hill on the Isle of Mull and the only island Munro outwith Skye. Its ascent provides a memorable day out amid magnificent west-coast scenery.

Most of those who climb Ben More do so from Dhiseig, following a clear path up its north-west ridge then returning the same way. However, a more satisfying route to its summit starts a little further along the coast to the north-east, climbing over the fine subsidiary peak of A’ Chioch, then returning via the so-called tourist path to Dhiseig.

Start from the grass parking area on the south side of the bridge over the burn which runs down the glen between Ben Fhada and Ben More; not to be confused with the bridge over the Scarisdale River one kilometre to the north-east.

Follow a vague path up the right side of the burn and continue up the glen to gain the ridge just above the col at its head. With the views opening up all around, climb this fine, narrowing ridge to reach the airy summit of A’ Chioch (867m).

The pyramidal summit cone of Ben More lies ahead and after descending from A’ Chioch the ascent starts with a narrow ridge where any difficulties and exposure can be avoided by a path on the left side.

Thereafter the ground steepens but a path zigzags easily up through the rocks on the left side of the ridge to an abrupt finish on to the summit of Ben More (966m).

Now simply follow the path north-west along the summit crest and descend the ridge to cross the burn and continue to the cottage at Dhiseig. A track now leads to the road and a pleasant stroll back to the start.