Assessment: a superb long scramble across the unforgettable peaks of the South of Glencoe.

Seasonal notes: a major winter mountaineering expedition.

Bidean can be climbed easily from any of the three valleys approaching it from Glencoe. This route takes the centre valley, leading over Stob Coire nan Lochan, a peak well worth an ascent in its own right, and returning via the Hidden Valley. A track of some sort goes most of the way.

The Hidden Valley (or Coire Gabhail) which has its mouth blocked by a rockfall, was the place where the Macdonalds of Glencoe were reputed to hide their stolen cattle from the prying eyes of their arch enemies, the Campbells.

The route starts from the large car-park on the S. side of the road, and crosses the bridge to follow the track up towards Coire nan Lochan. Passing to the left of the waterfall it is worth diverting into the secluded north-facing corrie, before heading for the NE ridge of Stob Coire. This ridge flanks the left side of the corrie, and is easier than it looks, but there is one short rocky bit that calls for the use of hands.

From the summit of Stob Coire, drop to the bealach linking to Bidean, and continue up the shoulder to the summit. A descent to the Hidden Valley can be made by returning to this bealach, and following the easy slopes to the east. The route shown here continues along the ridge heading to Stob Coire Sgreamhach, but turns off at the bealach before that peak, where a short, steepish, scrambly descent can be made into the upper reaches of the Hidden Valley.

The rockfall at the northern end of the Hidden Valley can be avoided by keeping to the east side of the stream, but if tackled direct it provides pleasant easy boulder-scrambling. Total ascent is 1165m (3800ft), over 8km (5 miles) and time for the route is about 6 to 7 hours.

If a shorter day is preferred you can omit Stob Coire by approaching via the Hidden Valley and then bearing westwards up to the bealach between Stob Coire and Bidean. Return can be made the same way or by the E ridge as described.

A further alternative (not illustrated here) is to go up Bidean via the western valley, below Aonach Dubh, and climb to the bealach before Stob Coire nam Beith. Continue over this summit and on to Bidean.

Scrambling and walking amongst the finest scenery in Scotland!