Mayar

Overview

Mayar is a grassy Munro rising above Glen Doll in the park’s southeast, often teamed with its neighbor Driesh for an efficient two‑Munro day. It tops out at 928 m, and while the summit is more broad shoulder than dramatic peak, the payoff is wide, sweeping views and a classic approach through the spectacular Corrie Fee amphitheatre.

What You’ll See

Expect an open, rolling plateau with crags dropping toward Glen Doll, and big sky vistas from the small cairn on top. The approach via Corrie Fee steals the show: a glacial bowl with a scenic waterfall and pockets of rare alpine/arctic plants. On a good day, you’ll scan across Angus to the southern Cairngorms; keep an eye out for upland birds and the occasional soaring golden eagle above the corrie.

The Hike

Most walkers start at Glen Doll car park, follow the good path into Corrie Fee, climb out onto the plateau, and tag Mayar before continuing along the Kilbo Path to Driesh and looping back. Figure roughly 14 km with around 900 m of ascent in 5–7 hours depending on pace and conditions. Confident and well‑prepared navigators sometimes extend north to Tom Buidhe or Tolmount across broad, featureless ground that will test your bearings.

Difficulty & Hazards

On a clear day the paths are straightforward and this is a very achievable Munro. In poor visibility, however, the summit plateau lacks strong features—navigation skills matter, especially in winter. Weather changes quickly at elevation; expect wind, mist, and snow in season, and plan accordingly.

Wildlife & Nature

Corrie Fee is the natural highlight: a textbook glacial corrie where sensitive habitats shelter rare plants. Stick to the main paths to help protect these communities. Overhead, watch for eagles and other upland birdlife riding the thermals.

Logistics

There are no amenities on the hill. Parking (for a small fee) and the main trailhead are at Glen Doll. There’s no public transport within about a mile of the start, so most visitors drive. The summit itself has only a small cairn and a lot of sky—come self‑sufficient with food, water, and layers.

Best Time to Visit

• Clear, settled days make the navigation easy and the views pop—aim for fair weather.
• Late summer heather adds color to the uplands; winter transforms the plateau into a serious mountain day.
• Start early on weekends to enjoy quieter trails through Corrie Fee and easier parking.

Who Will Love It

First‑time Munro baggers after a confidence‑building summit, scenery seekers drawn to Corrie Fee, and anyone who likes linking summits into a tidy loop will be happy here.