Scotland
Beinn Tart a' Mhill
232M
761FT
About Beinn Tart a' Mhill
Rising above the Rhinns of Islay, this rounded Marilyn is the highest point on the island's western peninsula. A steady climb reveals a summit dominated by a telecommunications mast, offering expansive views across Loch Indaal to the Paps of Jura and, on exceptionally clear days, the distant coast of Northern Ireland.
Key Statistics
Rank
124th Highest in Region
Parent Range
The Southern Hebrides
Prominence
?
227m
Nearest Town
Argyll and Bute
Geology
You are walking on the Rhinns Complex, a foundation of ancient, transformed stones. These hard, banded rocks were once molten and have been reshaped deep within the earth.
Find It
OS Grid Reference
NR210569
Latitude
55.7257°N
Longitude
6.4441°W
Did You Know?
- •The Gaelic name Beinn Tart a’ Mhill translates as 'Hill of the Thirst of the Hill,' likely referring to the quick-draining nature of its upper slopes compared to the surrounding peat bogs.
- •As the highest point of western Islay, the summit is used as a major transmission site; the presence of a service track makes it one of the most accessible Marilyns on the island.
- •Looking north from the trig point, you can clearly see the indentation of Loch Gruinart, a vital wintering ground for thousands of barnacle and Greenland white-fronted geese.
- •Considering the hill is named for thirst and sits on an island renowned for its single malt, it is a brave walker who reaches the summit without a flask for the descent.