Lurg Mhor

One of two mountains (the other being Bidein a' Choire Sheasgaich), rising above the head of Loch Monar, which are among the most remote and inaccessible in the Highlands, being almost ten kilometres distant over intervening hills and ridges from the nearest points of access in Glen Carron. Bidein a' Choire Sheasgaich is a fine pointed peak which can be identified from many distant viewpoints. Lurg Mhor, though slightly higher, is not so distinctive and is connected to its east top, Meall Mor, by a narrow rocky ridge.

Of three or four possible starting points in Glen Carron, the level crossing at Craig is possibly the best. You can cycle for about 5½ kilometres from there along the private road up the Allt a' Chonais to the point where the glen leading to Strathconon turns east. Continue on foot up the path to the Bealach Bhearnais and traverse Beinn Tharsuinn. Descend to the Bealach an Sgoltaidh and climb steeply up the craggy prow of the north ridge of Bidein a' Choire Sheasgaich to a lochan on the crest. Continue up the rocky ridge to the summit. The traverse to Lurg Mhor is straightforward and should be continued to Meall Mor only if you have time to spare and are prepared for a little serious scrambling.

On the return to Glen Carron, the quickest way to reach the Bealach Bhearnais from the Bidein - Lurg Mhor col is by a descending traverse round the foot of the south-east ridge of Beinn Tharsuinn followed by an ascent up the glen to the Bealach Bhearnais.

(Copyright The Scottish Mountaineering Club)