Driving down Glen Torridon you are overshadowed by one mountain in particular, Liathach.

A huge, imposing mass of rock that looks impenetrable from the bottom is one of the greatest ridge walks in the UK, offering up stunning views as well as challenging and exposed scrambling. It certainly isn’t for the faint hearted or those looking for an easy straightforward walk as there are many places where the only thing between you and the valley floor is 3000ft of open air!

Those who feel they’re up to the challenge, however, are met with some of the finest scrambling Torridon has to offer along with breathtaking views along the entire traverse. I’d been wanting to climb Liathach since the first time I set eyes on it and this summer I was fortunate that the weather provided a window to give it a crack.

After a relentless two hour climb up to the ridge, the view opens up before your eyes and the rest of the ridge snakes off into the distance. The fearsome ‘Pinnacles’ are considered the most challenging part of the route and they certainly didn’t disappoint. A number of vertiginous chimneys that must be navigated interrupt the ridge and this is where you really need a head for heights. The views along the whole ridge are exceptional and certainly worth the struggle.

My final must-visit spot is much closer to home and fortunately doesn’t require a head for heights. Following the river that runs through the Resort away from the sea, it takes you on a journey through ancient pine forests on a well-made path until you eventually emerge out of the trees onto a plateau with Beinn Damh looming above you.

Looking back towards the sea, you can see the village of Torridon across the loch with the great mass of Liathach behind. If you’re feeling particularly active, there is a circular walk around Beinn Damh that stays at a low level on reasonably well-made paths. This is an especially good walk-in winter as you can feel as if you are right out in the middle of the wilderness without venturing too far from civilisation.

If you’d like to recreate Matt’s journey but want to have an expert guide on hand to make sure your day goes smoothly Torridon Outdoors offer half and full day mountain guiding throughout the year

You can see more of Matt’s work at www.mattbuckleyphoto.com or on Instagram, @mattbuckleyphoto.

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