One of the gentlest Munros is still summit to appreciate
Take the train then enjoy delights of Beinn na Lap
Regarded as one of the easiest Munros to climb, Beinn na Lap is, conversely, one of the most difficult to reach. The only practical route to it is by train.
You could also cycle in from Fersit in the north or Dalwhinnie in the north-east – but rail is the sensible option for those looking for a day out, rather than an expedition.
The foot of the hill is barely more than 1km (0.6 miles) from Corrour Station, on the West Highland Line. The station lies at 408m (1,339ft) above sea level and the hill is gently rounded, with generally easy slopes. It’s not a tough day out… normally.
Outdoor writer Chris Townsend describes being forced to abandon a winter ascent of the hill in winds so strong he was unable to stand, while underfoot was rock-solid ice. Beinn na Lap is also a very popular hill, as I discovered when I climbed it in June 2017, it being the final mountain I had to ascend to “compleat” the Munros.
There were 20-odd people in my party. On the hill that day were two other quite large, and unconnected, groups. I was stunned to discover they included two others also finishing the Munros that day.
We had a bit of a joint celebration at the summit, with champagne, whisky and cake consumed. I do not normally condone drinking in the hills – it can dangerously affect judgment and so on – but I do confess the rest of that day is a wee bit of a blur. Especially after some more celebratory beers back at Corrour Station, which houses a restaurant and bar with rooms.
I found out later from Dave Broadhead, clerk of lists at the Scottish Mountaineering Club, that Beinn na Lap is the third most popular Munro for people to finish on, behind Ben Hope and Ben More on Mull. And here was me thinking I was being original… I suppose the fact it’s harder to reach means some might leave Beinn na Lap until last.
My own reasons were that, being such an “easy” Munro, it meant people who weren’t used to hillwalking could join me, while the romance of a train journey – the stunning West Highland Line – added something extra special to the day.