Scotland
Cruach Breacain
360M
1180FT
About Cruach Breacain
Situated on the quieter southern half of Arran, this modest Hump offers a softer alternative to the island's jagged northern peaks. Its moorland slopes provide a grandstand view over Lamlash Bay and the conical Holy Isle, making it a rewarding objective for those seeking solitude away from the Goatfell crowds.
Key Statistics
Rank
220th Highest in Region
Parent Range
The Isle of Arran
Prominence
?
125m
Nearest Town
Lochgilphead
Geology
You are hiking across ancient volcanic rock, hard sandstone, and lime-rich mudstone. These layers form the foundation of the fell beneath your boots.
Nearby Fells
Cnoc Loch Clachaig
Cruach a' Cham Loch
Cruach nam Fiadh North Top
Cruach an Sgreuchain
Cruach nan Cuilean
Find It
OS Grid Reference
NR820863
Latitude
56.0206°N
Longitude
5.4990°W
Did You Know?
- •The name is derived from the Scottish Gaelic Cruach, meaning a bold or stack-like hill, and Breacain, meaning speckled or variegated, likely referring to the natural patchwork of heather and grass on its slopes.
- •While the northern granite peaks of Arran hog the limelight, this summit provides a clear perspective of the 'Sleeping Warrior' profile, where the distant ridges of Ceum na Caillich and Caisteal Abhail resemble a reclining figure.
- •The hill overlooks the U-shaped valley of Monamore Glen, an area rich in prehistoric remains including the Giant’s Graves, a pair of Neolithic chambered cairns located on the lower forested slopes.
- •From the summit, the view southeast across the Firth of Clyde is often dominated by the lone, volcanic plug of Ailsa Craig sitting on the horizon.
- •Classified as a Hump (Hundred Metre Prominence), it remains a reliable choice for walkers when the higher, jagged ridges to the north are hidden by a stubborn Atlantic 'clag'.