Slioch
Mountain Scottish mountain near Loch Maree, rugged ridge
Part of northwest Scotland’s Torridon skyline, Slioch rises above Loch Maree. Climbers and photographers prize its ridged profile and reflective views on the loch below.
Slioch is a mountain in the Highlands of Scotland, north of Loch Maree in Ross-shire, with a summit of about 981 metres. It is a prominent, angular peak often singled out in views across the loch.
Walks to the summit are popular with hillwalkers and include steep sections and a narrow summit ridge, giving expansive views over the surrounding Torridon and Applecross hills and out to the coast. The peak’s distinctive profile makes it a frequently photographed feature from lakeside viewpoints.
Slioch has been a recognised destination for Scottish hillwalkers since mountaineering became popular in the 19th and 20th centuries, and it features in many regional guidebooks.
The mountain sits on the north side of Loch Maree in Wester Ross, visible from nearby roads and settlements; the nearest larger village is Kinlochewe and the area is a mix of lochside woodland and high moorland.
- Best viewpoints: The mountain is most photographed from the southern shore of Loch Maree, where its steep eastern face and reflection in the water form a classic Highland view.
- Route and safety: Reaching the summit involves steep, sometimes rocky ground; good navigation skills are advised in poor visibility.
How to Get to Slioch #
The usual approach is from the A832 near Kinlochewe and a track toward Loch Maree; local car parks and waymarked paths give access to the mountain’s approaches.
Tips for Visiting Slioch #
- Approach on a clear day - the best views of Liathach and the Torridon skyline from Slioch come when visibility is high.
- The start points near Loch Maree can be boggy; gaiters and good boots help keep feet dry.
Best Time to Visit Slioch #
Late spring to early autumn for hillwalking; winter climbs require avalanche and winter skills.
Weather & Climate near Slioch #
Slioch's climate is classified as Subpolar Oceanic - Subpolar Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in December). Temperatures range from -1°C to 13°C. Heavy rainfall (2848 mm/year), wettest in January.
January
January is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of 0°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (333 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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February
February is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Heavy rain (228 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Heavy rain (279 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (157 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (137 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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June
June is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (144 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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July
July is cool with highs of 13°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (160 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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August
August is cool with highs of 13°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (186 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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September
September is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 5°C. Heavy rain (267 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. Heavy rain (305 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Heavy rain (329 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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December
December is the coolest month with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Heavy rain (323 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
