Adventures in Scotland

Ascending Meall a’Bhucaille with 2 x 7 year olds and 1 x 4 year old.

Hiking in the Cairngorms

Many of our guests want to go hiking in the Cairngorms National Park. It is their primary reason for coming to stay with us. The most popular hike in the area is one lasting about 4 hours and preferably ascending a wee bit of a hill. This is the hike we usually recommend.

Be aware though – that this hike will not get you off the beaten track (as far as we are concerned) which is what Scot Mountain Holidays specialises in offering to our clients. You will see other hikers, particularly on the approach to the hill i.e. on the path up to Ryvoan Bothy.

Ryvoan bothy, at the start of the climb up Meall a’Bhucaille

Name:

Meall a’Bhucaille (Shepherd’s hill)

A popular “hill” hike suitable for almost anyone wanting to go hiking in the Cairngorms

Length:

3 – 4 hours

Maximum height:

810m

Views:

Glenmore, Loch Morlich, Cairngorm, the Lairig Ghru, Boat of Garten, Abernethy Forest

Parking:

in Glenmore either at the Visitor information centre or at the end of the road by Glenmore Lodge.

We would recommend starting the hike by passing in front of Glenmore Lodge but perhaps the better place to park would be the Forestry Commission visitor information centre, even though it is pay and display and the parking on the roadside outside Glenmore Lodge is free.

The path up Meall a’Bhucaille is steep but manageable for most people

The route:

Start by heading out from the Visitor Information Centre at Glenmore along the footpath which passes in front of the reindeer centre and then on towards Glenmore Lodge.

Continue on the footpath with takes over from the end of the road, heading towards the Green Lochan.

The path is wide and well-maintained. Before you reach Ryvoan Bothy, you’ll pass the Green Lochan, which is a pretty spot to take a breather.

You’ll turn at the bothy to head up the hill but you may want to make it your lunch spot as it will provide a shelter.

The path is obvious at the bothy. It heads up the hill towards the summit.

You’ll know when you reach the main summit as there is a large stone built shelter at the top with a magnificent view of Loch Morlich and the Cairngorms behind.

Instead of returning along the path you came up, head down to the saddle between Meall a’Bhucaille and Craigowrie and down the path from here back to Glenmore (this is a shorter return route).

Other options:

If you would prefer to get further away from the “crowds”, try joining a guided or self-guided trip with Scot Mountain Holidays. We specialise in exposing hidden gems for our guests to explore under the guidance of our expert and experienced local leaders.

Beautiful views and a clear path on the ascent of Meall a’Bhucaille