However, as a guide book for the Munros it leaves a little to be desired, and this is why I'll never get it muddy. The major failing is the quality of the sketch maps. These are not supposed to be used for navigation, and a decent 1:25,000 map should always be used for this, but more detail would make it easier to understand the route being described. This is particularly annoying if you are just starting on the Munros, and are trying to decide where to start, as is the lack of a map showing all the peaks together. Climbers who like to search out for scrambles and more exposed or multi-day routes may also find other books more useful. As for the routes described, I can't say I've tried them so can't rate any. They claim to follow obvious features, and I have no reason to doubt that they will get you up the hill. One complaint I do have is that the Inaccessible Pinnacle is indeed a rock climb, so why not mention the grading of the climb. It'd make it a lot easier to assess how hard it'll be to do it, and how much training to put in on climbing walls first.

Returning to routes, you wouldn't want this book on a hill with you either - it's too heavy for that. Write down your route, or photocopy it, but don't lug this book about with you!

I don't think it would take much to turn this book from a good one into a brilliant one. The photography is stunning (if a little biased towards winter views, which I find reveal less about the hill), and the route descriptions are useful, if limited for planning longer expeditions. All it needs are better maps, and a map of every Munro, plus possibly a few suggestions for longer routes.

At this price, it may be worth considering a cheaper guide if you're not concerned about pictures (there is a very good pocket sized one avaiable), and spending the difference on maps to help plan, but if you want to be able to see why the Munros are so climbable, then this is worth a look.

It all comes down to taste really, just like the hills - it isn't how you climb, it's enjoying it that's the key. If planning your trip will be improved by being able to see where you're going, then this will suit you. If you'd rather pour over a map, then maybe it isn't. Whatever guide you use, make sure you enjoy the hills - they really are something special.


Definative guide to great mountains   May 10, 2001
 16 out of 21 found this review helpful

This book offers an inspiring description of some of the most striking mountains in the UK, usefull to both experienced Hill Walkers and newcomers alike, after offering a brief introduction and history of the mountains the book gives a series of excellent one to two day walks, offering perhaps the best route for ascent in each case, a great book and an inspiring read presenting some fantastic routes


essential book for climbing the munros   December 16, 1998
 3 out of 3 found this review helpful

If you're looking for a book to introduce you to the scottish munros then this is the first you should buy. It provides suggested routes and comments for all of the munros, and IMHO is the book all other guides are based on. If you're just starting out munro climbing then these are the routes to follow - other books suggest alternative routes, quite rightly, but the routes detailed by Donald Bennet are tried and tested! This book has a tendancy to kick you out of your seat and get you out to the hills! The only niggly thing is that I always seem to beat the times quoted to the first hill, but never manage to make the times quoted between hills!

In summary - buy this book and then buy others to supplement your collection!