Region: Monar Forest – West of Loch Monar
Height: 986m (3,235 ft)
Lurg Mhor, “big shank,” is one of the most remote and mythically poised Munros in the Highlands, rising at the western edge of Loch Monar with a craggy north face and a long, sculptural crest. Its summit is often paired with Bidein a’ Choire Sheasgaich, forming a dramatic duo above Loch Calavie. The approach is long and ceremonial, requiring either a multi-day backpack or a bike-assisted pilgrimage via Attadale or Craig. For campervan travellers, access begins near Lochcarron, with wild parking and logistical planning essential.
Trailhead and Parking
- Primary Access Point: Attadale Estate track or Craig car park (Glen Carron)
- Location: Off the A890, near Lochcarron
- Grid Reference: NH065405 (summit)
- Capacity: Limited; suitable for discreet daytime campervan access
- Facilities: None at the trailhead
- Charges: Free
- Overnight: Possible with discretion in laybys near Lochcarron
Alternative Options
- Lochcarron Village: Fuel, shop, café, and informal parking
- Achnasheen: Campsite with basic facilities, 30-minute drive east
- Wild Parking: Laybys along A890 and Glen Carron (check signage)
Route Overview
- Standard Ascent: Bike-assisted approach via Attadale track to Bendronaig Lodge, then hike to Lurg Mhor and Bidein a’ Choire Sheasgaich
- Distance: ~40–43 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: ~1,730–2,970 metres depending on route
- Terrain: Hydro tracks, moorland paths, scrambly ridges
- Time Estimate: 8 to 15 hours (single push); 2 days with bothy or bivvy
Extensions:
- Subsidiary peak Meall Mòr offers an optional detour with airy views
- Best approached via Bendronaig Lodge and Loch Calavie for ceremonial pacing
Navigation Notes
- Summit lies at the western end of a narrow ridge with a scrambly crest
- River crossings and pathless terrain require dry conditions and careful pacing
- A map and compass are essential; a GPS is helpful for ridge transitions and bothy detours
- Weather can shift quickly; ceremonial pacing and full kit advised
Campervan Suitability
- Day Parking: Attadale track entrance and Craig car park allow informal access
- Overnight Options:
- Lochcarron village: Quiet overnighting with community courtesy
- Achnasheen Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
- Wild parking possible in designated laybys
- Facilities: None at the trailhead; pack with foresight
Fuel and Supplies
- Lochcarron: Fuel station, small shop, cafés
- Achnasheen: Basic supplies and seasonal café
- Outdoor Gear: Available in Inverness or Ullapool
- Water Refill: Recommended before entering the Monar corridor
Legacy Log
- Name Origin: “Lurg Mhor” means “big shank”
- Summit Features: Craggy crest, panoramic solitude, sculptural prominence
- Known For: Remote access, scrambly ridge, and sacred pacing
- Popular With: Wilderness pilgrims, legacy stewards, and those seeking mythic immersion
Closing Notes
This is Munro Profile 161 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve traced the hydro track, paused at Bendronaig’s threshold, or found a rhythm in the shank’s sculptural hush, your reflections are welcome. Each insight helps shape the archive and supports 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: