TOP 5 CORBETTS // #CLAIMYOURCORBETT

Corbetts are the unsung heroes of Scottish mountains. While they may be a little smaller than Munros, they have plenty of charm and make for fantastic locations for anyone who loves the outdoors. Here’s our pick of 5 of the very best.

Goatfell, Arran - 874m - #59

There has been plenty written about Goatfell and Arran, and rightly so. For such a small island, there is a remarkably diverse landscape and it is the perfect place to have a weekend adventure, whether on foot, bike or water.

Goatfell is the chief of four Corbetts on the island, and the easiest to get to from the ferry port of Brodick. A good path leads most of the way up the hill, though gets a bit rougher and steeper towards the top. The last push through, over and between granite boulders offers great views to the other Corbetts in a loose ring to the northwest. Looking east you are rewarded with a magnificent view over the Firth of Clyde.

A great climb in its own right, you can continue along the ridge towards Cir Mhor though the ridge becomes substantially more demanding and committing, so be sure to prepare properly. This large ring would make an ideal route for wild camping to make a real weekend out of it.

The Cobbler, Arrochar - 884m - #43

Perhaps the most visually stunning hill in the southern highlands, the Cobbler features some eye-catching rock formations and offers incredible views east over Loch Long. Easily accessible from most of the Central Belt, the Cobbler is a fantastic day walk.

The main path towards the three peaks is well used and easy to navigate. Clearing a short forested section, the path beside the stream allow you to see the peaks ahead. A pleasant stopping point at the large Narnain boulders offers a bit of shelter before the push to the top. While the terrain gets a little tougher towards the summit, it is still relatively easy. Once on the summit ridge you can explore the various peaks, the central peak being the highest.

The rock pinnacle is the true summit and can be reached with some careful scrambling. The Cobbler has been a popular climbers spot for many years and you can expect to see climbers on various section of rock around the summit. The easiest descent is by the way you came, though an alternate path to the southeast offers a more rugged but faster option, with views back to the cliffs on the northernmost peak.

Foinaven, Sutherland - 911m - #7

At 911m, Foinaven is just a few metres shy of being granted Munro status. A complex mound of six summits and jagged ridges, a route taking in a complete traverse of the mountain is a big undertaking, but a magnificent day out.

Starting from Loch Stack it’s a long walk in past the imposing Arkle, a great Corbett in its own right, and through some boggy sections before you gain the ridge towards the first summit of Creag Dionard. Whilst the bog disappears here, the rocky terrain can be quite demanding with some scrambling and route finding required. Heading further along, the ridge undulates considerably, adding to the strenuous nature of this route. Eventually, the fifth top is reached and the true summit of the entire ridge, Ganu Mor. If time allows, a short but easy walk will take you to the sixth and final top of the massive.

Retracing your steps the entire way makes for a long day out, but in this incredible landscape, it’s a pleasure to be outside with the views. Due to the length, this is a route best saved for long summer days, with possible wild camping to break up the distance. Located north of Ullapool, it is an isolated area so if you appreciate the wilderness, this is one for you.

Meall a' Bhuachaille, Cairngorms - 810m - #140

Whilst a lovely hill on its own, the chief attraction of Meall a’ Bhuachaille is the surrounding landscape and the activities that can be enjoyed there. Whether you like walking, camping, cycling or water sports, there is something for everyone in this corner of the Cairngorms.

Starting at scenic Loch Morlich, the track leads past the reindeer centre (always worth a look) and the outdoor centre of Glenmore Lodge on a wide and easy track up the glen. Before long you reach the iconic Lochan Uaine. The Green Lochan is a fetching shade of turquoise due to the number of faeries who wash their clothes there, so keep an eye out!

Before long you will reach Ryvoan bothy, and turning left, the only way is up. The path is good but it is a steep climb towards the large cairn on the summit. At 810m, the views over to Cairngorm and down to Loch Morlich are breath taking. From here, follow the ridge before turning southwest on a clear track back down through the pines towards Glenmore.

While in the area, there are plenty of camping spots in around the glen, and an official site on the shores of Loch Morlich. Paddling out on the loch is wonderful in good weather with surrounding mountains offering superb views. Cycling up to the ski centre or off road on the numerous paths and bridleways make this area a perfect base to indulge in the outdoors.

Quinag, Sutherland - 808/776/764m - #145/195/219

A trio of distinct summits in the northwest that are one of the best walks of any kind in Scotland. Wonderful peaks, narrow ridges, stunning views and splendid isolation makes these hills a must do for any committed walker.

The route can be tackled in a rough loop. Starting at a handy car park on the A894, follow the well cared for track up and left, round a bog, towards the first summit of Spidean Coinich. From here, views out to the sea and the surrounding hills are magnificent. Follow the ridge down and then back up towards the middle peak. Decending again the ridge then becomes easier on the stomp out to Sail Gorm and the second Corbett.

Retracing your steps being you back to the middle summit where a turn east takes you towards the highest, and final, summit of Sail Gharbh. Drink in the views before descending back down a few hundred metres to join a different path heading back to the road, and providing a great view of the hills you have just summited.

ESSENTIAL KIT

Like any mountain, tackling a Corbett requires some kit to keep you safe and secure in a challenging environment. Here's three essentials no walker should be without.

Rab Microlight Gilet - £125

No matter the time of year, it can be cold up on the hills. The Microlight gilet is a versatile ideal for year round use. Pack small and keep in your bag in warmer weather to provide a bit of insulation when you stop for lunch, or wear under a waterproof in colder weather for maximum insulation and windproofing, without restricting your freedom of movement. Furthermore, all Rab products meet the Responsible Down Standard to ensure the entire supply chain is monitored for best environmental and welfare practices. A winning choice all round, available in men's and women's.Shop Online - Men's Shop Online - Women's

Smartwool Medium Hiking Sock - £18.99

Good socks can make the difference between a good day walking and a proper slog. Smartwool are among the best manufacturer's of socks, using a merino wool blend which is tough, (fairly) resistant to odours, padded in the right places and well fitting. Another benefit is that even when wet, merino keeps warmth in - a massive bonus when you unexpectedly step into a bog! A must for any hiking adventure. Shop Online - Men's Shop Online - Women's

Rab Merino+ 120 LS Baselayer

A baselayer is another key component of comfort on the hill. Wicking away sweat from the skin is essential to keeping comfortable all day long. This Rab jersey is stretchy so you don't know you're wearing it, and the half zip is great for ventilating when the going get's tough. Merino is a fantastic material for long or multiple day walks as it keeps odours to a minimum and the soft material is comfortable all day long. A great garment ready to take on some big adventures. Shop Online - Men's Shop Online - Women's

Rab are one of our biggest brands, supplying us with apparel for every part of outdoor life. Designed in the UK and with a reputation for quality you can be assured your are buying kit that is designed work well for the long haul.

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