Scotland
Beinn Spionnaidh
773M
2536FT
About Beinn Spionnaidh
Standing as Scotland’s northernmost Corbett, this quartzite-capped whaleback provides a stark, stony landscape in the far reaches of Sutherland. The kilometre-long summit ridge offers a wide, elevated perspective over the deep waters of Loch Eriboll to the east and the shimmering sandbars of the Kyle of Durness to the west.
Key Statistics
Rank
36th Highest in Region
Parent Range
North West Highlands
Prominence
?
211m
Nearest Town
Data coming soon
Geology
You are hiking over ancient crystalline rock topped by layers of hard, pale sandstone. These durable stones form the rugged and craggy terrain beneath your boots.
Find It
OS Grid Reference
NC361572
Latitude
58.4730°N
Longitude
4.8105°W
Did You Know?
- •The name derives from the Gaelic Beinn Spionnaidh, which translates to the 'Mountain of Strength' or 'Mountain of Vigour', a likely reference to the stamina required to navigate its scree-laden slopes.
- •It holds the distinction of being the most northerly Corbett—and indeed the most northerly mountain over 2,500ft—in Great Britain, situated on a similar latitude to the southern tip of Norway.
- •The summit environment is dominated by Cambrian quartzite, which has shattered into a vast field of pale, loose scree that can appear almost like snow from a distance, even in the height of summer.
- •From the northern spur of Cioch Mhòr, walkers are treated to a clear view of the complex tides and sandbanks of the Kyle of Durness, along with the distant lighthouse at Farout Head.
- •While the kilometre-long summit ridge offers pleasantly level walking, the approach over shifting quartzite ensures you will have paid for that privilege in full by the time you reach the top.