Buachaille Etive Mor, meaning ‘the herdsman of Etive’, is a majestic mountain located at the head of Glen Etive in the Scottish Highlands. Commonly referred to as ‘The Buachaille’ by climbers, its distinctive pyramidal shape, as viewed from the A82 road heading towards Glen Coe, has made it one of the most iconic and frequently photographed mountains in Scotland. Its striking silhouette often graces postcards, calendars, and landscape photography, symbolising the rugged beauty of the Highlands.
The mountain forms a nearly five-mile-long ridge, almost entirely surrounded by the River Etive and its tributaries, creating a dramatic and isolated presence. The ridge features four principal summits: Stob Dearg (1022 metres), Stob na Doire (1011 metres), Stob Coire Altruim (941 metres), and Stob na Broige (956 metres). Among these, Stob Dearg and Stob na Broige are classified as Munros, with the latter being promoted to Munro status by the Scottish Mountaineering Club in 1997. These summits offer challenging climbs and breathtaking views, making Buachaille Etive Mor a favourite among mountaineers and hikers.
This is a 160-second exposure. This technique transformed the scene, imbuing it with a sense of timelessness and tranquillity. The extended exposure softened the movement of clouds and water, creating a dreamlike quality that contrasts with the mountain’s rugged, static form. The interplay of light and shadow, combined with the mountain’s imposing presence, makes Buachaille Etive Mor a compelling subject for photographers seeking to capture the essence of Scotland’s wild and untamed landscapes. Whether viewed in person or through the lens of a camera, this mountain remains a powerful symbol of the Highlands’ enduring allure.
