Scotland
Beinn Nuis
793M
2601FT
About Beinn Nuis
Rising steeply above Glen Rosa, this granite peak serves as the rugged southern gateway to Arran’s central mountains. The ascent over craggy moorland reveals a dramatic summit ridge, offering sharp views across the Firth of Clyde to Kintyre and the neighbouring jagged crest of A’ Chir.
Key Statistics
Rank
7th Highest in Region
Parent Range
The Southern Hebrides
Prominence
?
84.2m
Nearest Town
North Ayrshire
Geology
You’re trekking across a foundation of solid granite, cut through by narrow bands of dark volcanic rock that filled deep cracks in the landscape.
Find It
OS Grid Reference
NR955399
Latitude
55.6097°N
Longitude
5.2473°W
Did You Know?
- •The name originates from the Gaelic 'Beinn Nùis', which is generally translated as the 'Hill of the Face' or 'Forehead Mountain', likely referring to its steep, sheer-looking profile when viewed from the south near Shiskine.
- •It forms the southern start of the celebrated 'Three Beinns' ridge walk, a high-level circuit that connects the summit to its loftier neighbours, Beinn Tarsuinn and Beinn a' Chliabhain.
- •The mountain is part of the 'Sleeping Warrior', a famous profile of the North Arran hills visible from the mainland; Beinn Nuis forms the chest or torso of the resting figure.
- •The summit provides a spectacular vantage point for looking north at the 'Great Tors' of Beinn Tarsuinn, which are massive granite blocks sculpted by wind and ice into bizarre, leaning shapes.
- •Despite its formidable appearance from the Brodick ferry, the mountain is remarkably hospitable once you have negotiated the boggy approach through the Garbh Allt.