![Beinn Sgreamhaidh [Ben Screavie]](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/30/Summit_cairn%2C_Beinn_Sgreamhaidh%2C_Sutherland_-_geograph.org.uk_-_3950873.jpg)
Scotland
Beinn Sgreamhaidh [Ben Screavie]
435M
1427FT
About Beinn Sgreamhaidh [Ben Screavie]
Rising above the rugged Sutherland landscape near Loch Laxford, this rocky Hump offers a quiet alternative to its more famous neighbours. The terrain is characteristically rough, typical of the North West Highlands, rewarding those who navigate its craggy slopes with clear perspectives across the water towards Handa Island and the Minch.
Key Statistics
Rank
238th Highest in Region
Parent Range
North West Highlands
Prominence
?
106m
Nearest Town
Highland
Geology
You are walking on the Altnaharra Psammite Formation. This rock formed from layers of sand that were compressed and hardened into the tough stone beneath your feet.
Find It
OS Grid Reference
NC441150
Latitude
58.0972°N
Longitude
4.6457°W
Did You Know?
- •The name is Gaelic in origin, where 'sgreamh' translates as 'dread' or 'disgust'; in a landscape context, this likely refers to a 'loathsome' or particularly rough, scabby-looking surface.
- •Its summit provides an exceptional vantage point for studying the steep western flanks of Ben Stack and the distinctive white quartzite terraces of Arkle and Foinaven to the northeast.
- •The hill is largely composed of Lewisian Gneiss, some of the oldest rock in the world, which creates the characteristically 'knock and lochan' topography found around its base.
- •Despite its modest height, the lack of an established path ensures you will expend as much effort navigating the surrounding peat hags as you would on a mountain twice its size.