Beinn Dearg Mheadhonach

About Beinn Dearg Mheadhonach

Tucked between its "big" neighbour and the coast, this rounded Red Cuillin summit offers a softer alternative to Skye’s jagged interior. Characterised by distinctive reddish granophyre scree and steep heather, it provides an exceptional grandstand view across the Sound of Raasay and toward the formidable peaks of the Sligachan horseshoe.

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Did You Know?

• •The name is Gaelic for "Middle Red Hill," identifying its position between Beinn Dearg Mhòr (Big Red Hill) and the northern coastal slopes. The "red" refers to the pinkish-grey granophyre rock that distinguishes the Red Hills from the dark, jagged gabbro of the Black Cuillin.
• •It is most frequently climbed as part of a traverse from Sligachan, usually paired with its higher neighbour to the south. The route requires crossing the often-saturated ground of Glen Sligachan before a steep ascent onto the ridge.
• •The summit offers a unique, direct profile of the famous conical peak of Marsco to the west. Looking north, the view extends over the Sound of Raasay to the flat-topped summit of Dun Caan on the Isle of Raasay.
• •While its name suggests a modest intermediary status, the "Middle Red Hill" offers just enough loose scree to ensure your descent is significantly faster—and less dignified—than your ascent.