Buidhe Bheinn, from Kinloch Hourn

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This fine Corbett rises steeply above Kinloch Hourn and provides one of Scotland's classic views, along Loch Hourn to Ladhar Bheinn. Excellent stalkers paths make this an enjoyable ascent, and the ridge between the two peaks is very rocky and rugged. NOTE: Road to Kinloch Hourn currently closed until mid 2019 - no vehicular access to start of this route.

Terrain

Excellent stalkers paths for approach and return; upper part of hill is pathless, rocky and rugged.

Public Transport

None to Kinloch Hourn.

Start

Kinloch Hourn. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

Hillwalking in Winter

Please note that hillwalking when there is snow lying requires an ice-axe, crampons and the knowledge, experience and skill to use them correctly. All route descriptions and difficulties given here are for summer conditions. See our Winter Essentials page for basic information on the skills, techniques and knowledge needed for winter hillwalking.

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 12km / 7.5 miles
Time (summer conditions): 5.5 - 6 hours
Ascent: 1070m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NG950065

Summits Climbed

Corbett: Buidhe Bheinn

Maps / GPS

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Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

The 22km of single track road to Kinloch Hourn has a scary finale in the extremely steep, narrow final descent to the tiny settlement at the head of the loch. There are two parking areas - the first near the farm is for overnight parking, the second - a short distance further on - is for day visitors; both have a charge. Begin the walk by heading back along the road until a track signed for Glenelg, Glen Beag and Corran goes off left over a bridge - cross this. The track crosses a pasture then passes through a white gate. Continue past the stalkers' cottage (public phone here), then turn right along the near side of the main Lodge.

Stage 2

The rough track crosses a bridge and then climbs steeply. Ignore a path off left and stay on the track as it bends right, then keep straight up the main track when another route goes off right. Eventually the top end of the plantation is reached at a gate. Pass through and follow the track which now heads left, climbing up a cleft in the company of a power line.

Stage 3

Before the track begins to descend turn right onto an old stalkers' path. After 250m there is a junction of paths which is easily missed - the clearer path bends right, but our route turns left across a burn. From here on the stalkers' path is fairly easy to follow despite becoming less distinct. Soon a dramatic view begins to open up over Loch Hourn, with Ladhar Bheinn well seen in the distance - a view that will accompany much of the walk. The view gets better as the path works its way steadily uphill; the tiny house at Skiary can be seen far below across the foot of the loch.

Stage 4

The stalkers' path finally peters out at 670m or so; from here the going is pathless. The slopes are rocky; find a way northwards then east to gain Buidhe Beinn's NW ridge. This rocky ridge can then be followed to the west top, at 879m - which has the best of all views of Loch Hourn.

Stage 5

The true summit of the Corbett is the east top, which is 750m away along a very rugged ridge. The initial descent is particularly rocky and care is needed.

Stage 6

The final climb to the true summit is more straightforward. This was once regarded as a twin Corbett with Sgurr a' Bhac Chaolais - at the far end of the ridge above Kintail; both were the same height, though the height separation was not enough for them to be regarded separate hills. A resurvey has since shown Buidhe Bheinn to be the higher. Retrace your steps along the ridge back to the west top.

Stage 7

Now descend the curving south ridge, aiming towards a lochan at around 650m. Before reaching this aim down easy slopes WSW to pick up the top of another grassy stalkers' path at around 560m.

Stage 8

Once gained the path makes for much easier going, and the view to the loch continues to be superb.

Stage 9

Eventually the outward route is rejoined. Retrace your steps back down the track below the electric line and down through the woods to return to Kinloch Hourn and the start.

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