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The Sustainable Stop

Munro Profile 22: Sgurr nan Ceathreamhnan

Region: Loch Duich to Loch Ness
Height: 1,151m (3,776 ft)

Sgurr nan Ceathreamhnan is one of the most remote and majestic Munros in Scotland, tucked deep within the wild ridges north of Glen Affric. Its name, “peak of the quarters”, reflects its central position among a web of high ridgelines. Often considered one of the finest hillwalking summits in the Highlands, it rewards those willing to make the long approach. For campervan travellers, access is scenic but demanding, with Glen Affric offering the most practical gateway.

Trailhead and Parking

Primary Access Point: Affric Lodge Car Park (Glen Affric)

  • Location: End of the public road west of Cannich
  • Grid Reference: NH200233
  • Capacity: Limited; suitable for small campervans during the day
  • Facilities: No toilets or water; nearest services in Cannich
  • Charges: Free
  • Overnight: Not permitted

Alternative Options

  • Dog Falls Car Park: Forestry site with toilets, 5 km from the trailhead
  • Cannich: Campsite with full facilities, suitable for overnight stays
  • Wild parking: Possible in designated laybys along the Glen Affric road (check signage and seasonal restrictions)

Route Overview

Standard Ascent: Glen Affric and An Socach Circuit

  • Distance: Approximately 35 km round trip
  • Elevation Gain: Around 1,400 metres
  • Distance and elevation may vary depending on summit extensions and route choice.
  • Terrain: Estate tracks, steep ridges, remote plateau
  • Time Estimate: 10 to 12 hours

An alternative approach exists via Glen Elchaig or Strath Croe, though these are more remote and suited to multi-day expeditions.

Navigation Notes

  • The route is remote, and a map, compass, or GPS is essential
  • Often combined with An Socach and Mullach na Dheiragain for a full-day traverse
  • Weather exposure is significant; the route is best tackled in settled conditions

Campervan Suitability

Day Parking

  • Affric Lodge Car Park allows daytime campervan access
  • Dog Falls offers overflow and basic facilities

Overnight Options

  • Cannich Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
  • Wild parking may be possible in designated laybys (check signage)
  • No overnighting permitted at Affric Lodge trailhead

Fuel and Supplies

  • Cannich: Small shop and fuel station
  • Nearest large supermarket: Drumnadrochit or Inverness

Legacy Log

  • Name origin: “Sgurr nan Ceathreamhnan” translates to “peak of the quarters,” referencing its central position among four ridges.
  • Summit features: Cairn with panoramic views across the Affric and Mullardoch ranges
  • Known for: Remote grandeur, complex ridgelines, and wilderness feel
  • Often part of multi-day backpacking routes or long-distance Munro circuits

Closing Notes

This is Munro Profile 22 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve climbed Sgurr nan Ceathreamhnan, navigated the Glen Affric approach, or found a reliable overnight spot nearby, feel free to share your comments. Your insights help shape the archive and support fellow travellers.

Sources Used
These sites provide far more detailed and comprehensive overviews of the walks and Munros than I could hope to cover here:

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