Beinn Bheula, near Lochgoilhead

Summary

Beinn Bheula enjoys a superb location rising above remote Lochgoilhead and almost surrounded by the many sea lochs that penetrate for miles in this part of Argyll. Although only a fairly lowly Corbett, it is a steep and very rugged mountain of grand character. Although fairly short this hillwalk gives very rough going in places.

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Grade

Bog Factor

Rating

Terrain

Track initially, then very rugged hill with some steep, pathless ground, boggy in parts. The descent route given is particularly tough going.

Getting there

Start

Lettermay.

Public Transport

None to start.

Start Grid Ref

NS187998

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 12km / 7.5 miles
Time: 5 - 6 hours
Ascent: 798m (Profile)

Summits Climbed

Corbett: Beinn Bheula

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OL37 Cowal East

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Walk Description

User reports (14)

Stage 1

The walk begins from the chalets at Lettermay, which can be reached by turning off the road to Carrick Castle after it crosses the bridge over the Lettermay burn - it is signed as part of the Cowal Way, which is followed for the first part of the ascent. There is no car park, and it requires care to find a considerate place to park. Turn left up the track near the cluster of chalets, heading uphill on the Cowal Way, then turn right opposite a bungalow. The Cowal Way track now leads past a barrier and a forestry sign. Already there are stunning views looking back across the loch to Lochgoilhead and the mountains behind - with the Cobbler unexpectedly prominent.

Stage 2

When a crossroads of forest tracks is reached go straight across - still following the Cowal Way signs. Ignore the next track heading down to the right, instead keeping slightly left. Beinn Bheula now comes into full view ahead. At the next junction turn right (CW sign) and follow the track. After crossing the Lettermay burn turn left onto a somewhat boggy and overgrown path through the trees.

Stage 3

The path climbs up towards the series of attractive waterfalls on the Sruth Ban burn. Near the base of the falls the path swings left to climb across the slope and then back right to return to the burn above the falls. It now continues along a more level glen.

Stage 4

When the path reaches a fence near a plantation leave the Cowal Way and turn left uphill along the fence line. Whichever side you choose, you'll still have to climb over a fence higher up. Keep left of the first big crags, then climb up Beinn Bhreac - or pass it slightly to the right. The angle of ascent eases briefly as the craggy upper slopes of the mountain are approached. Head towards the gap between Creag a' Bhuic and ascend a ramp heading left to get through the rocks. Above this easier slopes lead up towards Creag a' Bhuic and then south to the summit.

Stage 5

The highest point is marked by a trig pillar and a windshelter cairn. It is a truly superb viewpoint in good conditions, with a contrast between the Clyde estuary and the many sea lochs to the south and west, and range after range of mountains to the north. Arran, Jura and Mull are all well seen in clear weather. The easiest way back is to retrace your steps, but it is possible to descend via Lochan nan Cnaimh to make a circuit if you don't mind rough going, especially in the forest.

Stage 6

For the latter option, continue south along the ridge, heading over Creag Sgoilte. Turn southwest just before Ceann Garbh to keep to the right of crags barring the direct descent, before turning back southeast towards the bealach. Further down the scattered wreckage of an aircraft may be seen - a Grumman Marklett fighter struck the mountain here in 1940, killing the pilot. If the day is clear Lochan nan Cnaimh is well seen from here - reaching it is something of a cross-country yomp across the slopes, crossing a fence part way.

Stage 7

Once reached the loch is a delightful spot. Head over to the outflow at the northwest corner. Here an initially small burn heads into the forestry. Head down the left side of the burn, crossing the fence, and continuing on a very eroded path beside the burn through the trees. Care is needed, and in places it is easier to head through the trees. Part way down look out for a wooden post where an indistinct firebreak heads off beyond. Cross the burn here using stones - this may not be possible in spate - and follow a faint path along the firebreak.

Stage 8

The firebreak is a little overgrown but the path can be made out. Eventually open ground is reached where the trees on the left side of the firebreak have been felled. Continue along the former firebreak, crossing a couple of fallen trees in places. Eventually, and probably with some relief, a forest track is reached. Turn left down this; it loses height quickly, rejoining the outward route at a junction. Retrace your steps down the track to return to the start.

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