How to Start Munro Bagging

Because the difficulty ratings of Munros differ from one peak to another, it's good to do your research on each hike before packing. You want to make sure you bring enough to support your trek, and I would rather be overprepared than underprepared, especially with the unpredictable Scottish weather. Here is what I bring for any hike over 2 hours (though some Munros may take less than that, depending on your speed):

• Backpack (40L) - Preferably  waterproof

• Hiking Socks - Bring an extra pair in case your feet get wet

• Waterproof Jacket - weight depends on the season, but even in the rare heat of summer, I would bring a waterproof shell

• Waterproof Hiking Boots - make sure you break these in first to avoid blisters, but these can make or break any hike to protect your feet and ankles, offer superior support, traction, and protection compared to casual shoes or sneakers.

• Midge Spray - If you're hiking in Scotland in the summer, midge spray is a must to keep the little terrors at bay.

• Snacks - Protein bars, packs of dried fruit & nuts, and for encouragement, some chocolate for a treat and a burst of energy

• First Aid Kit - Better safe than sorry, even if you only use the plasters for forming blisters

• Walking Sticks (optional) - Helpful for first-time hikers, take the weight off the knees.

• Water - General rule of thumb is to bring 0.5 to 1 liter of water per hour of hiking

So what did I bring on the Cairnwell Munros? Pretty much everything on that list, all packed into my large hiking bag (I’ve tagged the one that I use above). I also brought a mini bottle of fizz to celebrate at the last peak and a sandwich, knowing I’d need it to fill my personal fuel tank. I didn’t use everything I brought, but I had it if I needed it which is the best way to be! Better overprepared than underprepared.However you pack, remember, what you bring up, you have to bring down. Leave no garbage behind and only bring as much as your willing to carry, both ways. The weight of a pack does add another level of difficulty so if your hiking with a friend, perhaps take turns.

You will begin your trek across the Cairnwell Munros at the Glenshee Ski Centre, where you might be tempted to take the ski lift up to shorten your hike. From here, continue on the path and start your Munro bagging journey! While we had originally debated whether our fitness levels would allow us to complete all three hikes, we decided to give it a try and I'm glad we did!

The path, for the majority of the round, is clearly visible and intact. There are a few scrambling bits when you get closer to the top, however, so be prepared to have your balance tested. We followed the suggested path from WalkHighlands, taking on the steepest of the climbs to Carn Aosda before continuing along the ridge to Carn a Gheoidh, stopping at the Cairnwell Munro, and back down towards the Glenshee Ski Resort, where we parked the car.  

But don’t take it from me! Learn to do some research by looking at their pages on WalkHighlands:

• Carn Aosda

• Carn a Gheoidh

• The Cairnwell

• The 3 Cairnwell Munros

Maybe you’re not quite up to summiting a Munro, and don't feel ready to summit two or three in one day. Perhaps a smaller, nearby hike would be a good starting point. There are so many fantastic walking opportunities in the Cairngorms National Park, but if you're looking for something a bit different and relatively straightforward, how does seeing a pyramid in Scotland sound?

There is a fantastic walk on the grounds of Balmoral Castle for those looking to experience the best of hidden Scotland. The Balmoral Cairns walk is perfect for those who might not be willing to test their stamina on the Munros just yet, although there are some steep parts under the Scots pine trees. You can either take a long circular route (6 miles) or take the short walk up to the main, largest pyramid (Prince Alberts Cairn) (~3 miles) and back.

The walk is different from most, in the forest as opposed to the exposed mountain tops of nearby hills, adding another level of interest along with the cairns themselves.

To find out more about the Balmoral Pyramids, explore our other blog: https://www.crerarhotels.com/inspiration/blog/balmoral-pyramids/   

Now, as great as the feeling of accomplishment is, we all know the final celebration come at the pub or restaurant afterwards. Theres nothing better after a long hike than a crisp, cold pint with a hearty, protein packed dinner. 

After my experience on the Cairnwell Munros, I was so thankful to find accommodation with the Balmoral Arms in Ballater a short drive farther into the Cairngorms. The quintessentially Scottish village is packed with local vendors, restaurants, and more. After the trek, I didn’t want to walk any more than I had to, so after checking into the my premium suite (I know, but I needed some luxury), I had the most phenomenal dinner (and wine) in the 1852 Brasierre downstairs.

I enjoyed a slow-braised feather blade beef steak with creamy purée potatoes, steamed green vegetables, all of which was covered in a dreamy ale gravy. There was no way I was walking, or rolling, back to my room without tasting the chocolate and orange tart. All of it was phenomenal and I genuinely would've hiked the collection of munros twice if I could return to the same meal!

So, congratulations! You have the information, you have researched, and you’ve booked your nearby accommodation; you have no more excuses!  You are now on the path to becoming a Munro Bagger, so get out there and start exploring! Make sure to tag your expeditions with #CrerarHotelsAdventures and follow us on Instagram @CrerarHotels so we can follow along and encourage you!

Good luck on your journeys & explore safely!