Creag Meagaidh

Creag Meagaidh stands on the northern side of Glen Spean in the Scottish Highlands. It is a complex mountain with a flat summit plateau and five ridges spreading out from it. The cliffs surrounding the corrie of Coire Ardair on the north-eastern face are famous for ice climbing. The mountain is part of Creag Meagaidh National Nature Reserve, which covers 3,940 hectares. The reserve extends from the shores of Loch Laggan to the high summit plateau. It was designated in 1986 and is owned and managed by NatureScot. The site is also a Special Protection Area where grazing animals are controlled. The mountain is renowned for its diverse habitats and important features. Native woodland of birch, alder, willow, rowan and oak has regrown due to controlled grazing. The site is an important breeding ground for many bird species, particularly the dotterel. Over 120 species of lichen and more than 150 species of invertebrates have been recorded. The cliffs above Coire Ardair support rare species such as alpine foxtail and downy willow. The reserve is also home to red, roe and sika deer, mountain hares, pine martens and otters. Visitors can climb the mountain from Aberarder on the A86 road by following the path leading up Coire Ardair. A circuit of the glen may be made by returning to Aberarder via Creag Meagaidh's east ridge. The most direct route to the summit ascends from the head of the corrie to reach a narrow gap known as The Window. The crags are a renowned venue for winter and ice climbing. The summit plateau is carpeted in moss heath and stiff sedge, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape.