Ben Hiant may be only 528m high, but its position as the highest point out on the Ardnamurchan peninsula makes it a superlative viewpoint, taking in miles of coastline and countless islands. It's also a shapely little peak in its own right - a perfect short hillwalk.
Hill path throughout; some steeper ground and boggy sections.
None to start.
Parking at NM551641 near its highest point.
There is space for several cars to park on the gravel verge where a gated track leaves the where a gated gravel track leaves the B8007 at its highest point. The start of the path isn't immediately clear - it begins from the tiny cairn on the opposite side of the road, slanting right up onto the moorland. From here on, the path is fairly distinct all the way to the summit - certainly much clearer than the path across the hill shown on OS maps which doesn't appear on the ground. The path soon steepens as it climbs rightwards to reach the top of an escarpment.
Once on an escarpment the path swings left, with great views over Loch Sunart. There follows a more gradual pull up a broader grassy slope, before the path steepens once more, with a short rocky section before the ridge is gained.
Now the path leads along a delightful grassy ridge with views of the final, rockier summit cone looking impressive ahead.
After a climb up to a shoulder, the path swings left at the base of the final summit cone. It cuts across the southern slope before curving back right to gain the summit easily from behind. The top is marked by a trig point and a cairn, but it is the sensational views that will be remembered. Kilchoan lies to the west, whilst the islands of Mull, Eigg and Rum are all prominent on a clear day.
The return walk is back the same way - with superb views to enjoy at every step.
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