Scotland’s highest mountain
At 1,345 metres, Ben Nevis is Scotland’s highest and most popular mountain. Every year, thousands of people take on the challenge of climbing “The Ben”.
The meaning behind the name
“Ben Nevis” is a translation of the Scottish Gaelic name “Beinn Nibheis”.
- “Beinn” is a common Gaelic word for “mountain”.
- “Nibheis” is usually translated as “malicious” or “venomous”.
An alternative interpretation suggests “Beinn Nibheis” comes from “beinn nèamh-bhathais”, meaning “clouds” and “top of a man’s head”, which translates as “the mountain with its head in the clouds”.
A brief history of ascents
The first recorded ascent of Ben Nevis was on 17 August 1771 by James Robertson, an Edinburgh botanist collecting plant specimens. Another early ascent was in 1774 by John Williams, who provided the first geological account of the mountain.
In 1818, poet John Keats climbed Ben Nevis, comparing the experience to “mounting ten St Paul’s without the convenience of a staircase”. It was not until 1847 that the Ordnance Survey confirmed Ben Nevis as the highest mountain in Britain and Ireland, ahead of its rival Ben Macdhui.
Climbing Ben Nevis
The mountain path is rocky and can be dangerously slippery, especially when wet. Visibility is often reduced by cloud, rain, and fog. With the right equipment, sturdy boots, navigational skills, and a good level of fitness, the climb is both exhilarating and rewarding – and the views are truly magnificent.
