Scotland
Sgurr nan Fhir Duibhe
963M
3159FT
About Sgurr nan Fhir Duibhe
Marking the eastern end of the Beinn Eighe ridge, this rugged quartzite peak offers some of Torridon’s most dramatic scrambling. Known for the shattered pinnacles of the Black Carls on its eastern spur, the summit provides a sharp vantage point overlooking Loch Maree and the neighbouring giants of Liathach and Slioch.
Key Statistics
Rank
11th Highest in Region
Parent Range
North West Highlands
Prominence
?
117m
Nearest Town
Taagan
Geology
You are walking across tough, white sandstone and rougher rock filled with small pebbles. These durable stones form the mountain’s rugged foundation.
Classifications
Find It
OS Grid Reference
NG981600
Latitude
57.5850°N
Longitude
5.3780°W
Did You Know?
- •The name translates from Scottish Gaelic as the 'Peak of the Black Men.' This refers to the dark, jagged sandstone pinnacles known as the Black Carls (Na h-Eileachan Dubha) that march along the ridge to the east, contrasting sharply with the white quartzite capping the summit.
- •The summit acts as a spectacular grandstand for viewing the 'Triple Buttress' of Coire Mhic Fhearchair to the west and the massive, terraced slopes of Liathach across Glen Torridon.
- •Although it stands at 963m, well above the 3,000ft threshold, it is classified as a Munro Top rather than a full Munro because it lacks sufficient prominence from its parent peak, Ruadh-stac Mòr.
- •The approach from the east involves navigating the Black Carls, a series of sandstone towers that offer high-quality scrambling and a distinct geological contrast to the surrounding white scree slopes.
- •The Black Carls pinnacles provide excellent scrambling, provided you enjoy the sensation of ancient Torridonian sandstone attempting to aggressively redesign your shins.