Scotland
Ben Tianavaig
413M
1355FT
About Ben Tianavaig
Rising steeply above Portree harbour, this coastal Marilyn offers a dramatic verticality that belies its modest 413-metre height. The ascent from Camastianavaig follows a steady ridge line, rewarding walkers with staggering perspectives across the Sound of Raasay toward the jagged cliffs of The Storr to the north.
Key Statistics
Rank
193rd Highest in Region
Parent Range
The Isle of Skye
Prominence
?
366m
Nearest Town
Camustianavaig
Geology
You are walking across layers of ancient volcanic lava flows stacked over solid sandstone. This foundation was formed by fiery eruptions and old sandy deposits.
Find It
OS Grid Reference
NG511409
Latitude
57.3910°N
Longitude
6.1425°W
Did You Know?
- •The name is a Norse-Gaelic hybrid; 'Tianavaig' is thought to derive from the Old Norse þing-völlr-vík, meaning 'Assembly Field Bay,' suggesting the sheltered waters below were once a site of Viking administrative meetings.
- •The summit provides one of the most comprehensive views of the Trotternish landslips to the north, with the Old Man of Storr and the Sanctuary cliffs clearly visible across the water.
- •Looking eastward across the Sound of Raasay, walkers can see the entire profile of the Isle of Raasay, punctuated by the unmistakable flat-topped summit of Dun Caan.
- •The hill’s eastern cliffs are a well-established territory for white-tailed sea eagles, which are frequently seen soaring on the thermals created by the steep drop to the sea.
- •Ben Tianavaig serves as a vital natural landmark for the fishing fleet and ferry traffic entering Portree, acting as a massive basalt breakwater that protects the harbour from south-easterly weather.
- •It is a quintessential 'quick win' for those staying in Portree, providing the scale and drama of a much larger peak for the relatively modest price of a two-hour round trip.