Munro Profile 144: Glas Bheinn Mhor

Region: Western Highlands – Glen Etive
Height: 997m (3,271 ft)

Glas Bheinn Mhòr, “big green hill,” is a quiet and rounded summit east of Ben Starav, often paired for a full circuit. Its name evokes colour and softness, fitting for its grassy ridges and lochan-framed ascent. Though overshadowed by Starav’s drama, it offers its own gentle prominence and panoramic views across Glen Etive and the Creran hills. For campervan travellers, access is shared via the Glen Etive road-end, with a scenic and remote approach.

Trailhead and Parking

  • Primary Access Point: Glen Etive Road-End (near Coileitir)
  • Location: South of Glen Etive, reached via the single-track road from Glencoe
  • Grid Reference: NN137468 (trailhead)
  • Summit Grid Reference: NN169452
  • Capacity: Small roadside verge; suitable for short campervans during the day
  • Facilities: None at the trailhead
  • Charges: Free
  • Overnight: Not permitted

Nearby Options

Route Overview

  • Standard Ascent: Coileitir track via Allt Mheuran and ridge traverse
  • Distance: ~12–16 km round trip
  • Elevation Gain: ~1,000 metres
  • Terrain: Grassy ridges, rocky paths, exposed summit
  • Time Estimate: 6 to 8 hours

Extensions:

  • Often paired with Ben Starav for a full Glen Etive circuit
  • The traverse can be extended to Stob Coir’ an Albannaich for a longer day

Navigation Notes

  • Summit is cairned and exposed; visibility can drop quickly
  • A map and compass are essential; a GPS is helpful for ridge transitions
  • Weather can shift rapidly across the massif, ceremonial pacing and full kit advised

Campervan Suitability

  • Day Parking: Glen Etive verge allows daytime campervan access
  • Overnight Options:
    • Glencoe Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
    • Wild parking may be possible in designated laybys
  • Overflow: Kingshouse and Glencoe Village offer additional staging

Fuel and Supplies

  • Ballachulish: Shop, café, fuel station
  • Nearest Large Supermarket: Fort William
  • Outdoor Gear: Available in Glencoe or Fort William
  • Water Refill: Recommended before entering the Glen Etive corridor

Legacy Log

  • Name Origin: “Glas Bheinn Mhòr” translates to “big green hill”
  • Summit Features: Cairn with views across Glen Etive, Ben Starav, and the Creran hills
  • Known For: Gentle prominence, circuit rhythm, and lochan charm
  • Popular With: Ridge walkers, legacy stewards, and those seeking a quiet Glen Etive pairing

Closing Notes

This is Munro Profile 144 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve climbed Glas Bheinn Mhòr or completed the Starav circuit, 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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