Ben More (Mull)

Ben More, at 966 metres, is the only Munro on any Scottish island other than Skye, a striking volcanic peak rising almost from sea level on the Isle of Mull, its summit affording spectacular views across the Inner Hebrides on a clear day.

The route starts from a parking area near Dhiseig on the B8035, on the shores of Loch na Keal. A path climbs directly up the mountain's northern slopes, following the line of the Abhainn na h-Uamha burn initially before striking more directly up increasingly steep grassy and rocky terrain — the ascent is relentless, with little respite, gaining almost the full height of the mountain from sea level in a single sustained pull. Higher up, the terrain becomes rockier, with the final approach to the summit crossing a narrowing ridge with some minor scrambling in places, though nothing technically difficult in good conditions.

The summit is one of the great viewpoints of the Hebrides: the surrounding sea dotted with islands, Iona, Staffa, Coll, and Tiree visible on clear days, with the mainland peaks of Ardnamurchan and beyond forming a distant backdrop, and Mull's own dramatic coastline spread out below.

An alternative approach ascends via the mountain's north-east ridge from Glen More, offering a slightly more gradual if longer line to the summit, sometimes combined with the connecting ridge to A' Chioch for a more adventurous traverse.

The out-and-back route from Dhiseig is typically five to seven hours, a substantial undertaking given the sea-level starting point means the full height must be climbed without any of the head start common to many mainland Munros.

The mountain's proximity to the sea makes it notably exposed to fast-changing coastal weather, and the sustained steep ascent should not be underestimated — full hillwalking fitness and equipment are essential, along with realistic planning around ferry times if travelling from the mainland.

Parking near Dhiseig is free; there is a limited bus service on Mull, and ferries run from Oban to Craignure.