Meall a' Bhùiridh
1,108m
Glen Coe
“Hill of the Bellowing”
1,108mHeight
20kmRound trip
4.8–6.2hWalk time
ChallengingDifficulty 3/5
Photo: Enric · CC BY-SA 4.0
Overview
About this Munro
Meall a' Bhùiridh is a 1,108m Munro in the Glen Coe region, its Gaelic name meaning “hill of the bellowing”. It stands 47th of the 282 Munros by height. The usual ascent — Meall a' Bhùiridh from Glencoe Mountain Resort — is a 20km round trip taking 4.8–6.2 hours, rated challenging (3/5).
Plan your day
Routes & Navigation
There is 1 route to the summit of Meall a' Bhùiridh, covering 20km.
Route preview
Meall a' Bhùiridh from Glencoe Mountain Resort
Challenging4.8–6.2h round trip20km distance↑886m ascent
Bog ratingSlight
ParkingGlencoe Ski Centre
Step-by-step guideIn the app
Climbing Meall a' Bhùiridh
Meall a' Bhùiridh rises to 1108 metres above Glencoe Mountain Resort, offering a challenging but accessible route in the…
Climbing Meall a' Bhùiridh
Meall a' Bhùiridh rises to 1108 metres above Glencoe Mountain Resort, offering a challenging but accessible route in the…
Meall a' Bhùiridh rises to 1108 metres above Glencoe Mountain Resort, offering a challenging but accessible route in the spectacular Glen Coe region. The ascent from the ski centre covers 20 kilometres over 5 to 6 hours, with a difficulty rating of 3 out of 5 and moderate bog levels of 2 out of 5, making Meall a' Bhùiridh popular with experienced walkers. The mountain's name translates as 'Hill of the Bellowing', possibly referencing wind or deer.
The route initially follows ski area infrastructure before heading onto open mountain terrain, and some people choose to use the ski lifts when operating to reduce the ascent, though this diminishes the full mountain experience of Meall a' Bhùiridh. The terrain is predominantly grassy with some rockier sections, and the broad slopes allow for relatively straightforward navigation in good visibility.
The ascent involves sustained climbing to reach the substantial height of Meall a' Bhùiridh, and the upper slopes can be exposed to wind. The proximity to the ski area means the lower reaches may show signs of development, but higher up, Meall a' Bhùiridh reveals its true mountain character.
Best Time to Climb Meall a' Bhùiridh
Meall a' Bhùiridh can be climbed across a long season, from spring through autumn, with May to October offering the most…
Best Time to Climb Meall a' Bhùiridh
Meall a' Bhùiridh can be climbed across a long season, from spring through autumn, with May to October offering the most…
Meall a' Bhùiridh can be climbed across a long season, from spring through autumn, with May to October offering the most reliable conditions. The relatively short time requirement of 5 to 6 hours makes Meall a' Bhùiridh achievable even on the shorter days of spring and autumn. Summer provides the most stable weather and the longest daylight, though the Glen Coe region receives substantial rainfall throughout the year.
The height of Meall a' Bhùiridh at 1108 metres means the summit sits well into the zone where conditions can be harsh, with cloud often covering the tops even when glens are clear. Winter transforms Meall a' Bhùiridh into a serious mountaineering objective, with the ski area infrastructure providing a reminder of how challenging the mountain becomes under snow and ice.
The proximity to the west coast means Atlantic weather systems sweep across frequently, and conditions can change rapidly on Meall a' Bhùiridh. Check mountain forecasts specifically, as summit conditions differ dramatically from those at the ski centre base. The mountain's exposure means wind is a constant consideration, particularly on the broad, featureless upper slopes of Meall a' Bhùiridh.
Getting to Meall a' Bhùiridh
Access to Meall a' Bhùiridh begins at Glencoe Ski Centre, located on the A82 between Bridge of Orchy and Glencoe…
Getting to Meall a' Bhùiridh
Access to Meall a' Bhùiridh begins at Glencoe Ski Centre, located on the A82 between Bridge of Orchy and Glencoe…
Access to Meall a' Bhùiridh begins at Glencoe Ski Centre, located on the A82 between Bridge of Orchy and Glencoe village, making it one of the most accessible mountain trailheads in the Highlands. The ski centre is well signposted from the main road and offers substantial car parking, though it can be busy during ski season and on summer weekends.
The location is approximately 90 minutes from Glasgow and two hours from Fort William, making Meall a' Bhùiridh a popular destination. There are facilities at the ski centre including a café during operating hours, and toilets are available. The nearest village with more comprehensive facilities is Glencoe village, about 15 minutes north, with Bridge of Orchy offering limited facilities to the south.
Mobile phone signal is generally reasonable at the ski centre but becomes unreliable on the mountain, so inform someone of your plans before heading up Meall a' Bhùiridh. The A82 is a major route and is well-maintained year-round, though it can be busy with tourist traffic during summer and subject to winter closures in severe weather. Parking fees may apply at the ski centre.
Meall a' Bhùiridh Summit
The summit of Meall a' Bhùiridh at 1108 metres offers spectacular panoramic views across the Glen Coe region and beyond.…
Meall a' Bhùiridh Summit
The summit of Meall a' Bhùiridh at 1108 metres offers spectacular panoramic views across the Glen Coe region and beyond.…
The summit of Meall a' Bhùiridh at 1108 metres offers spectacular panoramic views across the Glen Coe region and beyond. On clear days, the vista takes in the dramatic peaks of Glen Coe to the north, Rannoch Moor stretching to the east, and the western mountains rolling away to distant horizons. The summit cairn marks one of the higher points in the southern Highlands, and the achievement of reaching Meall a' Bhùiridh feels significant.
The summit area is broad and can be exposed to strong winds, with little natural shelter, so even on warm days you'll need windproof layers. The featureless nature of the upper slopes means careful navigation is required in poor visibility, which is common on Meall a' Bhùiridh even when lower elevations are clear.
The summit provides an excellent viewpoint for appreciating the scale and drama of the surrounding landscape, with the dark waters of lochs contrasting with the mountains. Remember that weather on Meall a' Bhùiridh can deteriorate rapidly, so don't linger too long if conditions are marginal, and always be prepared for swift descent if necessary.
Wildlife on Meall a' Bhùiridh
The Glen Coe region around Meall a' Bhùiridh supports diverse Highland wildlife despite the ski area development on the…
Wildlife on Meall a' Bhùiridh
The Glen Coe region around Meall a' Bhùiridh supports diverse Highland wildlife despite the ski area development on the…
The Glen Coe region around Meall a' Bhùiridh supports diverse Highland wildlife despite the ski area development on the lower slopes. Red deer are common throughout, and you're likely to encounter them on the approaches and flanks of Meall a' Bhùiridh, particularly at dawn or dusk. Golden eagles hunt across the region, and you may spot one soaring above the ridges. Mountain hares inhabit the higher slopes, their coats turning white in winter to blend with snow.
The lower slopes around Meall a' Bhùiridh support heather moorland mixed with bilberry and crowberry, while the summit area features montane heath with hardy grasses and sedges. Red grouse may be encountered on the heather moorland, and meadow pipits are abundant in summer. The wet western climate means mosses and ferns thrive in damper areas. Ptarmigan, specially adapted to high-altitude life, may be found on the upper slopes of Meall a' Bhùiridh above 900 metres.
Ravens are common throughout, their calls echoing off the crags. During summer, wildflowers including tormentil and milkwort add colour to the slopes, and butterflies including Scotch argus may be seen at lower elevations.
Meall a' Bhùiridh Tips
Proper preparation is essential for a safe ascent of Meall a' Bhùiridh despite its accessibility. Carry map, compass,…
Meall a' Bhùiridh Tips
Proper preparation is essential for a safe ascent of Meall a' Bhùiridh despite its accessibility. Carry map, compass,…
Proper preparation is essential for a safe ascent of Meall a' Bhùiridh despite its accessibility. Carry map, compass, and ideally GPS, and know how to use them, as the upper slopes are featureless and navigation becomes critical in poor visibility, which is common on Meall a' Bhùiridh. Waterproof boots are essential even though bog levels are moderate, and full waterproofs should be carried as the Glen Coe region receives substantial rainfall.
Pack warm layers including windproof jacket, hat, and gloves, as summit conditions can be harsh even when the base is mild. Carry sufficient food and water for 5 to 6 hours, though the relatively short time means less is needed than for longer expeditions. Mobile phone signal is unreliable on the mountain, so inform someone of your plans.
The proximity to the ski centre can create a false sense of security—once you're on the upper slopes of Meall a' Bhùiridh, you're committed to a mountain environment where weather can deteriorate rapidly. Start early to allow maximum time, and be prepared to turn back if conditions worsen. Trekking poles are valuable for stability on descent, particularly if slopes are wet.
Keep bagging
Nearby Munros in Glen Coe
Explore more peaks near Glen Coe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about climbing Meall a' Bhùiridh.
How tall is Meall a' Bhùiridh?
Meall a' Bhùiridh stands at 1,108 metres (3,635 feet), making it the 47th tallest of all 282 Munros in Scotland.
What does Meall a' Bhùiridh mean in Gaelic?
The name Meall a' Bhùiridh translates from Scottish Gaelic as “Hill of the Bellowing”.
How long does it take to climb Meall a' Bhùiridh?
Climbing Meall a' Bhùiridh typically takes between 4.8 and 6.2 hours round trip. This varies with fitness, weather, and the route chosen.
Where do I park for Meall a' Bhùiridh?
There is dedicated parking at the standard starting point for the main route up Meall a' Bhùiridh, in the Glen Coe area. The exact car park location, map pin and arrival guidance are in the free Munros app.
How difficult is Meall a' Bhùiridh to climb?
Meall a' Bhùiridh is rated Challenging (difficulty 3/5).
What is the best route up Meall a' Bhùiridh?
The most popular route up Meall a' Bhùiridh covers 20km, 4.8–6.2 hours round trip.
Is Meall a' Bhùiridh good for beginners?
Meall a' Bhùiridh (difficulty 3/5 at 1,108m in the Glen Coe area) suits walkers with solid hillwalking experience. Expect rough or boggy ground on sections but no technical scrambling.
What region is Meall a' Bhùiridh in?
Meall a' Bhùiridh is in the Glen Coe region of Scotland. Nearby Munros include Bidean nam Bian, Creise, Meall Dearg (Aonach Eagach).