Clach Glas

About Clach Glas

Known as the "Matterhorn of Skye," this spectacular gabbro peak offers some of the most sustained scrambling in the Cuillin. Rising sharply above Coire Dubh, its narrow ridge demands a steady head and sure footing, particularly on the classic, airy traverse towards its larger neighbour, Blà Bheinn.

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Did You Know?

• •The name Clach Glas is Gaelic for "Grey Stone." Unlike the darker gabbro found on much of the main Cuillin ridge, this peak is composed of lighter-coloured granophyre and basalt, which gives the rock a noticeably paler, silvery-grey appearance when viewed from the surrounding glens.
• •Its striking pyramidal profile earned it the nickname "the Matterhorn of Skye" from the Victorian climber Ashley Abraham. It remains one of the most respected non-Munro peaks in the country, as every route to the summit involves technical scrambling at Grade 2 or 3.
• •The first recorded ascent was not made until 1888 by Charles Pilkington and his companions. This was significantly later than many of the higher peaks on the main ridge, illustrating the hill's long-standing reputation for being difficult to access and climb.
• •The summit provides an unparalleled perspective of the Great North Face of Blà Bheinn, along with a clear view across the waters of Loch Slapin towards the Small Isles of Rum and Eigg on the southern horizon.
• •While frequently treated as a mere precursor to Blà Bheinn, the Grey Stone is more than capable of providing its own entertainment; it is one of the few hills where the descent is often more debated in the pub than the climb up.