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The Sustainable Stop

Munro Profile 62: Ben Starav

Region: Western Highlands – Glen Etive
Height: 1,078m (3,537 ft)

Ben Starav is a towering and lochan-framed summit at the head of Glen Etive, known for its dramatic ridges and remote grandeur. Its name, “hill of the cataract” or “hill of the stream”, evokes flow and power, fitting for its steep flanks and water-threaded corries. For campervan travellers, access is via the Glen Etive road-end, with a bold and scenic ascent.

Trailhead and Parking

Primary Access Point: Glen Etive Road-End (near Coileitir)
Location: Off the Glen Etive single-track road, south of Dalness
Grid Reference: NN137468 (trailhead)
Summit Grid Reference: NN120405

Capacity: Small roadside verge; suitable for short campervans during the day
Facilities: None at the trailhead
Charges: Free
Overnight: Not permitted

Nearby Options

  • Kingshouse: Wild parking and hotel facilities
  • Glencoe Village: Campsite with full amenities
  • Ballachulish: Additional supplies and overflow options

Route Overview

Standard Ascent: Coileitir Track via Allt Mheuran and North Ridge
Distance: Approximately 12–16 km round trip
Elevation Gain: Around 1,100 metres
Terrain: Steep grassy slopes, rocky ridges, exposed summit
Time Estimate: 6 to 8 hours

Navigation Notes

  • Often paired with Glas Bheinn Mhor
  • Summit is cairned and exposed; a map, compass, or GPS is essential
  • The weather can shift dramatically across the massif

Campervan Suitability

Day Parking

  • Glen Etive verge allows daytime campervan access
  • Kingshouse and Glencoe Village offer overflow options

Overnight Options

  • Glencoe Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
  • Wild parking may be possible in designated laybys (check signage)

Fuel and Supplies

  • Ballachulish: Shop, café, fuel station
  • Nearest large supermarket: Fort William

Legacy Log

  • Name origin: “Ben Starav” may translate to “hill of the cataract”
  • Summit features: Cairn with views across Loch Etive, Glas Bheinn Mhor, and Glen Creran
  • Known for: Ridge drama, lochan elegance, and remote prominence
  • Popular with: Legacy stewards, ridge walkers, and those seeking a bold Glen Etive climb

Closing Notes

This is Munro Profile 62 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve climbed Ben Starav or linked it with Glas Bheinn Mhor, feel free to share your reflections. 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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