From the doorstep of Waterloo Lodge and The Hideaway – Lochinver, Assynt
Why Assynt’s Mountains Are Unique?
Assynt, centred around the village of Lochinver, is one of the most distinctive landscapes on the NC500 (North Coast 500). The region is known for its isolated mountains — individual peaks rising directly from moorland and loch, each with its own shape, character, and geology. This makes Assynt one of the most recognisable areas in the Scottish Highlands for walkers, photographers, and road-trippers.
For anyone travelling the NC500, Lochinver is one of the most scenic stops, and from Waterloo Lodge and The Hideaway, guests can see several major peaks directly from the balcony. The skyline changes constantly with the light and weather, making the mountains a memorable part of staying in the area.
This guide introduces the key mountains surrounding Lochinver and throughout Assynt — plus one nearby favourite in Coigach — helping visitors understand the landscape and plan their adventures.
Mountains of Assynt: Complete Guide
1. Suilven (731 m)
Assynt’s Most Recognisable Peak
Suilven is one of the most photographed mountains in Scotland, easily recognisable by its long ridge and steep sides. It dominates the view from Lochinver and is clearly visible from Waterloo Lodge at sunrise.
Highlights:
- Distinctive shape from every angle
- Rewarding, challenging hike
- One of the Highlands’ most iconic silhouettes
Best for: Experienced hikers & photographers
2. Canisp (847 m)
A Quieter Neighbour to Suilven
Canisp sits just across the glen from Suilven. Slightly higher and usually quieter, it offers broad, open views across Assynt.
Highlights:
- Panoramic views
- Wide ridgeline
- Quiet, steady ascent
Best for: Walkers seeking solitude
3. Stac Pollaidh (612 m)
Short Climb, Big Views
Stac Pollaidh (Stac Polly) is a small but impressive mountain with a pinnacled ridge and one of the best viewpoints in the region. The path is short and accessible to most visitors.
Highlights:
- Quick ascent
- Excellent 360° views
- Ideal for sunsets and shorter outings
Best for: Families, photographers & first-time hillwalkers
4. Quinag – Sail Gharbh (808 m)
Three Peaks, One Mountain
Quinag is a large, multi-summit mountain with three peaks connected by long, scenic ridges. The views stretch across the sea, lochs, and open moorland.
Highlights:
- Sail Gharbh, Sail Ghorm & Spidean Coinich
- Superb ridge walking
- Impressive geology
Best for: Confident hikers
5. Cùl Mòr (849 m)
Cul Mor and Cul Beag
Wide Horizons and Quiet Ground
Cùl Mòr offers a sense of space and openness, with long slopes and extensive views across Coigach and Inverpolly.
Highlights:
- Gradual gradients
- Peaceful walking
- Far-reaching views
Best for: Walkers who enjoy quieter routes
6. Glas Bheinn (776 m)
Above Britain’s Highest Waterfall
Glas Bheinn stands above Eas a’ Chual Aluinn — the tallest waterfall in the UK. Many visitors combine the mountain with a visit to the falls.
Highlights:
- UK’s highest waterfall nearby
- Rugged plateau
- Views toward Ben More Assynt
Best for: Walkers interested in waterfalls & geology
7. Cùl Beag (769 m)
A Quiet Peak with Excellent Vantage Points
Often overlooked, Cùl Beag provides outstanding views of Cùl Mòr, Stac Pollaidh, and the coastline.
Highlights:
- Scenic views of neighbouring peaks
- Quiet, uncrowded routes
- Attractive coastal outlooks
Best for: Walkers seeking peaceful summits
8. Breabag (776 m)
Where Landscape Meets History
Breabag is home to the Bone Caves, where remains of reindeer, polar bears, and early humans were uncovered. The mountain offers a wide plateau and rugged scenery.
Highlights:
- Bone Caves trail
- Broad upper slopes
- Blend of archaeology and landscape
Best for: Families & curious explorers
9. Conival (987 m) & Ben More Assynt (998 m)
Assynt’s Two Munros
These twin summits form Assynt’s highest peaks. Climbed together, they offer rocky ridges and sweeping views.
Highlights:
- Region’s tallest mountains
- Classic Munro ridge
- A challenging full-day hike
Best for: Experienced hikers
A Nearby Favourite (Coigach)
Not in Assynt, but often explored by visitors based in Lochinver.
Ben Mor Coigach (743 m)
A Coastal Peak Near Assynt
Ben Mor Coigach sits just south of the Assynt boundary. It provides outstanding views over the Summer Isles and the coastline north of Ullapool.
Highlights:
- Sea and island panoramas
- A rewarding ridge walk
- Beautiful coastal scenery
Best for: Photographers & coastal walkers
Mountains Visible from Waterloo Lodge & The Hideaway
From both properties, guests can enjoy views of:
- Suilven
- Canisp
- Cùl Mòr
- Cùl Beag
- Quinag
- Stac Pollaidh
Clear days offer long views from loch to sea, while early and late light often highlights each peak differently.
Stay Among the Peaks
Your Base for Exploring Assynt & the NC500
Waterloo Lodge and The Hideaway provide an ideal base for exploring the mountains surrounding Lochinver. Every peak listed above is within easy driving distance, and the area offers walking routes for all levels.
Whether you plan to hike, take photographs, or simply enjoy the scenery from the hot tub, this part of Scotland delivers a memorable Highland experience.
Final Thoughts
A Landscape Shaped by Time and Weather
Assynt’s mountains are distinctive in shape, geology, and character. Whether you’re summiting Suilven, walking the ridges of Quinag, or watching the evening light rest on Canisp from your balcony, the landscape offers something special for every visitor travelling through Lochinver and the NC500.