• ABOUT THE SPOT

Mountain Climbing in Aonach Eagach Ridge, Glencoe, Highlands and Islands United Kingdom

Elevation:
967m/3173ft
Prominence:
622m/2041ft
Grade:
Hard
Glencoe is a small village in the Highlands of Scotland. Situated in the heart of a glen, Glencoe and the surrounding area is familiar to most of us, since the spot was the setting for filming ''Skyfall'' and '' Harry Potter and The Prisoner of Askaban''. If you are experienced in mountain climbing, Aonach Eagach is a must visit in the area.

Aonach Eagach is a rocky ridge, located on the northern side of Glencoe. It is known as the narrowest ridge of British mainland. It has become both a notorious and attractive destination at the same time for the experienced climbers, linking the two Munros,  Meall Dearg and Sgorr nam Fiannaidh.

The ascent is arguably hard, because climbers have to face up many difficulties in a short distance. That’s why this route requires a good workout and experience. Very exposed scrambling is one of the characteristic conditions. Specifically, there is a section after Stob Coire Leith, where the ridge is broken by a series of notches (some of them up to 10 m/32 ft deep). Careful scrambling up and down is needed, because there is no way out, unless you complete the section. A rope is a good idea.

Another point you should pay attention to is to avoid crossing Clachaig Gully. You ‘d better stay on the path, away from it, because the opposite could be hazardous. The best season for mountain climbers to visit is summer from June to September, when conditions are ideal.