Ben Nevis, at 1,345m the highest mountain in Britain, is the country's premier mountaineering objective — from a long walk-up to some of the finest serious climbing in the land.
What to expect
The Mountain Track is a long, demanding but non-technical walk to the summit in summer, while the mountain's great north-east cliffs hold some of Britain's best rock and winter climbing. Conditions on top are arctic even in summer, and navigation off the plateau is essential in cloud. Treat it as the serious mountain it is.
Getting there car-free
Fort William, at its foot, has a station on the scenic West Highland Line plus the Caledonian Sleeper from London — an unusually accessible big mountain.
Do you need experience to climb Ben Nevis?
The summer walk-up needs fitness, proper kit and navigation; the climbing routes and any winter ascent need real mountaineering skills.
When is the best time to climb it?
May to September for walking; winter ascents are for experienced mountaineers only.
