This classic shorter outing tackles the iconic peak of Ben Lui alongside its gentler neighbour, Beinn a' Chlèibh, from Glen Lochy. Ben Lui is celebrated for its grand, architectural form and dramatic eastern corrie, while Beinn a' Chlèibh offers a spacious plateau with expansive views. The route combines a rugged, pathless ascent with a steep, rewarding ridge walk.
Terrain and underfoot
The walk begins with an unbridged crossing of the River Lochy, which is impassable in spate. Beyond a low railway underpass, the route climbs through boggy forestry before tackling a pathless, soggy, and sustained grassy slope to Ben Lui's north ridge. The upper ridges are steep and rocky. The descent from the bealach is initially very steep before joining a clearer path beside the burn.
Stay close to the hill
Turn Ben Lui into part of a Highland break
Browse handpicked Scottish cottages ranked with cached road times to Munro route starts. Signed-in walkers can prioritise cottages by the hills still missing from their round.
Route times and descriptions are planning estimates. Recheck mountain weather, access, daylight, river levels and your own experience before setting out.