An Socach (Mullardoch)

An Socach, at 1,069 metres, is a broad, whale-backed Munro on the northern side of Loch Mullardoch, distinguished from its two namesakes elsewhere in Scotland (Glen Affric and Braemar) by this remote loch-side setting, offering a strenuous approach and expansive views across one of the wildest corners of the northern Highlands.

The route starts from a car park at the eastern end of Loch Mullardoch, reached via a long, single-track road from Cannich. A path leads along the north shore of the loch, boggy in places and requiring care at burn crossings, before climbing steadily onto the broad north ridge of An Socach — the terrain is largely grassy and undulating, with the summit itself something of an anticlimax after the long approach, marked only by a modest cairn on an otherwise unremarkable dome. The reward lies in the views: south across Loch Mullardoch to the high peaks of the Affric group, and west towards the remote wilderness stretching towards Kintail.

Most walkers retrace the ascent route given the remoteness of any alternative descent; for those wanting a longer day, this Munro can be combined with the neighbouring group of Mullardoch Munros — Càrn nan Gobhar, Sgùrr na Lapaich, An Riabhachan — as part of an extended traverse, though this considerably lengthens what is already a serious undertaking.

The out-and-back route from the Loch Mullardoch car park is typically seven to nine hours, reflecting the sheer distance involved along the loch shore before any height is gained.

This is remote, exposed terrain with a long approach — full self-sufficiency, navigation skills, and a realistic assessment of daylight hours are all essential given how far this mountain sits from any help.

Parking at Loch Mullardoch is free; there is no public transport to the start, and the approach road itself is narrow and remote.