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The Sustainable Stop

Munro Profile 33: A’ Chràlaig

Region: Loch Duich to Loch Ness
Height: 1,120m (3,675 ft)

A’ Chràlaig is a bold and commanding peak in Glen Shiel, known for its steep flanks and dramatic ridgeline. It forms the gateway to the Cluanie Ridge, one of Scotland’s most celebrated high-level traverses. Though often used as a launch point for longer circuits, A’ Chràlaig stands proud on its own, offering a short but intense ascent. For campervan travellers, access is direct and scenic, with roadside options and nearby facilities.

Trailhead and Parking

Primary Access Point: Cluanie Inn Layby (A87)

  • Location: Glen Shiel, opposite the Cluanie Inn
  • Grid Reference: NH094117
  • Capacity: Moderate roadside layby; suitable for campervans during the day
  • Facilities: Café and toilets at Cluanie Inn (seasonal)
  • Charges: Free
  • Overnight: Not permitted

Alternative Options

  • Cluanie Inn: May allow overnight stays by arrangement
  • Wild parking: Possible in designated laybys along the A87 (check signage and seasonal restrictions)
  • Invermoriston or Fort Augustus: Campsites with full facilities, 30–40 minutes away

Route Overview

Standard Ascent: North Ridge via Coire Odhar

  • Distance: Approximately 9 km round trip
  • Elevation Gain: Around 1,000 metres
  • Terrain: Steep grassy slopes, rocky ridges, exposed sections
  • Time Estimate: 4 to 6 hours

Summit Grid Ref: NH094147 — useful for GPS and mapping

Navigation Notes

  • Ridge is narrow and exposed in places; a compass or GPS is essential
  • Often extended into the full Cluanie Ridge traverse (7 Munros)
  • Weather can shift quickly; visibility is key for safe route-finding

Campervan Suitability

Day Parking

  • Cluanie Inn layby allows daytime campervan access
  • Nearby laybys offer overflow options

Overnight Options

  • Fort Augustus or Invermoriston: Campsites with toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
  • Wild parking may be possible in designated laybys (check signage)
  • No overnighting permitted at Cluanie layby unless arranged with the Inn

Fuel and Supplies

  • Fort Augustus: Fuel station, shop, café
  • Nearest large supermarket: Inverness

Legacy Log

  • Name origin: “A’ Chràlaig” may translate to “the basket” or “the creel,” possibly referencing the corrie shape
  • Summit features: Cairn with views across Glen Shiel, the Five Sisters, and Loch Cluanie
  • Known for: Steep ascent, dramatic ridgeline, and role as gateway to the Cluanie traverse
  • Popular with: Ridge walkers, scramblers, and those seeking a short but high-impact climb

Closing Notes

This is Munro Profile 33 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve climbed A’ Chràlaig, traversed the Cluanie Ridge, 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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