Cathelle Houses [Lair of Whitestone]

About Cathelle Houses [Lair of Whitestone]

Perched on the northern shoulder of Mount Keen, Cathelle Houses is a rugged plateau where the granite is plentiful but the real estate is lacking. It’s the ideal spot for hikers who find the main Munro summit far too mainstream and prefer the company of silent peat.

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Did You Know?

• •The 'houses' in the name are actually a series of prominent granite tors and boulders, rather than any architectural achievement by local Highland builders.
• •This high point sits along the ancient Fir Mounth, a historic route used for centuries by cattle drovers and travelers crossing from Glen Tanar to Glen Esk.
• •Geologically, the 'Lair of Whitestone' refers to the distinctively pale granite that litters the slope, leftovers from the massive pluton that formed the Mounth mountains.
• •While the height of 863 meters puts it well into 'Top' territory, its flat profile means you’ll spend more time checking your GPS than catching your breath.
• •Do not be fooled by the name; attempting to find a 'Lair' for a cozy nap will likely result in a very damp backside and an intimate acquaintance with local sphagnum moss.