Beinn Bhan, near Kishorn

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Summary

This majestic Applecross mountain really deserves far more renown. Beinn Bhan has dramatic fluted corries on its eastern flanks which look fantastic from the easy walk along the plateau edge giving this route the drama of the Torridon mountains without the exposure or need for scrambling; the views are simply stunning. The steep (but grassy) descent on the circular route can be avoided by returning from the summit by the outward route.

Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

4.5/5

Rating

Terrain

There is no path for most of the moorland route but the going is reasonably straightforward. The descent from the plateau is on very steep grass followed by a moorland trudge down to the stalkers' track and finally a minor road towards the end of the walk.

Public Transport

None to start.

Start

Layby just before the bridge over the River Kishorn just after the Applecross turn off from the A896. Open in Google Maps.

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 Skills page for basic information on the essential skills, techniques and knowledge needed for winter hillwalking.

Walk Statistics

Distance: 14km / 8.75 miles
Time (summer conditions): 5 - 7 hours
Ascent: 995m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NG836423

Summits Climbed

Corbett: Beinn Bhan

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Walk Description

User reports (16)

Stage 1

There is a parking area on the left side of the road just before the bridge when heading towards Applecross and the Bealach na Ba from the A896. Begin the walk by crossing the bridge and staying on the road as it turns to the left and begins to climb gently. The dry dock and pier at Kishorn is seen ahead - ignore the road forking left to this. Soon after rounding the bend there's a viewpoint on the left side of the road with an info board. Just beyond this, leave the road on the right and head in a northerly direction, directly up the heathery ridge of Beinn Bhan.

Stage 2

The ridge climbs fairly steeply with no clear path, but ever improving views looking back over Loch Kishorn. To the left you can look down on Loch Coire nan Arr and the impressive flanks of Sgùrr a' Chaorachain and the Cìoch Nose opposite which hides the ultimate driving test of the Bealach na Ba behind it.

Stage 3

The route continues climbing steeply until gentler ground is reached above Coire Each. The most impressive route is to stay near the cliffs on the right hand side although great care is needed in low visibility. Continue along the ridge and after reaching a domed summit there are impressive views to the right down into Beinn Bhan's wonderful corries, and across to Torridon.

Stage 4

The ridge descends slightly and then steepens and narrows for a section before the summit plateau and then the summit shelter and trig point are reached. Here there is a wide view west over the sea to Raasay, Skye, Rum and on a clear day the Outer Hebrides, as well as over Torridon to the east.

Stage 5

Continue north along the plateau with amazingly dramatic views down into Coire na Poite with its two lochans. The two arms enclosing Coire na Poite require either very hard scrambling (the A'Chioch ridge seen on the right from here) or severe rock-climbing (the A'Phoit ridge on the left) to link to the plateau - both are well beyond the scope of Walkhighlands.

Stage 6

When you reach a point (NG800459) about two-thirds of the way round the rim of the less dramatic Coir an Fhamhair - shortly before Loch na Beinn Baine off to the left side - it is possible to directly descend the very steep grass slope on the right to the corrie floor. There are traces of a faint zig-zag path which can used in places, whilst ensuring you keep to the grassy section. Keep descending to the coire floor and then head for the left hand side of Lochan Coire na Poite which has a sandy easterly shore.

Stage 7

Skirt around the left side of the Lochan and follow the Allt Coire na Poite as it heads downhill towards a good stalkers' path. A couple of good waterfalls are passed on the way down.

Stage 8

When you reach the path turn right and continue on this well constructed path until you reach the road at Drochaid Mhor. The Rassal Ashwood - which is near the northern limit for ash trees - can be seen on the opposite side of the River Kishorn. Once at the road, cross the bridge to return to the parking place.