Beinn Sgritheall

About Beinn Sgritheall

Rising steeply from the sea at Arnisdale, this formidable Munro is defined by its unrelenting scree slopes and immense verticality. The ascent is punishingly direct, but the rewards are world-class, offering a staggering perspective across the deep trench of Loch Hourn toward the rugged peaks of Knoydart and the Cuillin of Skye.

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Did You Know?

• •The name Beinn Sgrìtheall is derived from the Gaelic for 'Mountain of Scree'. It is a literal description of the loose, shifting rock that dominates its southern flanks, making for a challenging and unstable ascent compared to the grassy slopes of its neighbours.
• •Because the standard route starts from the coastal village of Arnisdale, walkers must climb almost the entire 974-metre height from sea level. This lack of a 'head start' from a high pass makes it a more strenuous day than many Munros with higher absolute elevations.
• •The summit offers a unique vantage point over the Sound of Sleat. To the west, the distinctive profile of the Isle of Rum is clearly visible, while looking south across Loch Hourn provides a spectacular view of the 'Rough Bounds of Knoydart', specifically the peak of Ladhar Bheinn.
• •The hill overlooks Sandaig, the coastal retreat where author Gavin Maxwell lived. The dramatic presence of Beinn Sgritheall features heavily in the atmosphere of his writing, including the classic 'Ring of Bright Water'.
• •While many mountain names imply majesty or legend, Beinn Sgritheall is effectively named 'Mountain of Sliding Rubble'—a title you will fully appreciate on the descent as you spend several hundred metres wondering which will give way first: the path or your knees.