Bidean nam Bian
Bidean nam Bian (1,150m) is the highest mountain in the former county of Argyll and the highest peak in Glen Coe. It's a complex mountain with multiple tops, dramatic corries, and several possible routes — all of them serious undertakings.
The most popular approach is via the Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail), continuing beyond the valley floor up steep ground to the summit ridge. An alternative route climbs via Stob Coire nan Lochan, traversing spectacular terrain above the cliff-rimmed corrie.
From the summit, the views are immense: the Mamores, Ben Nevis, Loch Linnhe, and on clear days, the Cuillin of Skye. Below, the Three Sisters — which are actually ridges radiating from Bidean — plunge dramatically to the glen floor.
This is a proper mountain day requiring full equipment, navigation skills, and experience. In winter, it's a serious mountaineering challenge.
Highlights
Safety Tips
- • Serious mountain — full equipment essential
- • Navigation critical in cloud
- • Steep ground with loose rock
- • Corniced in winter
- • Multiple route choices — plan carefully
- • Long day — start early