Achnaclerach, Bridge

Explorer Tom Ben Wyvis rises above the inner Moray Firth like a great whale-backed challenge, but its most remarkable treasure may be the soft moss under your boots. I would be tempted to announce myself king of the ridge; the breeding dotterel and fragile plants would rightly ask me to keep moving quietly. This mountain deserves respect. NatureScot manages the reserve and calls the summit ridge Britain's largest area of woolly hair-moss. Dotterel breed up here, while lower slopes hold heather, burns and a changing mix of Highland wildlife. The summit is a popular Munro walk, but popularity does not make the exposed ridge gentle. Straying boots damage the moss, so keep to the main path. The usual approach starts at the small Garbat car park on the A835 between Garve and Ullapool. A path follows the Allt a' Bhealaich Mhor, then climbs steeply over stony ground to An Cabar and along the ridge. NatureScot gives around six hours for the summit and return. That is a full hill day, even if a bright morning tries to convince you otherwise. I would rather turn back in good order than tell a heroic story to a rescue team. Bring a map, compass, boots and warm waterproof clothing, and check the forecast before leaving. NatureScot says there is no shelter on the high ridge and asks walkers to keep dogs close, especially during the dotterel breeding months. The nearest toilets are away from the car park. Take the mountain on its own terms, and let the view be your reward for getting both you and the moss home intact.