Beinn Ghobhlach Walking

When it comes to mountains, size isn’t everything. Lowly Beinn Ghobhlach packs a punch in terms of prominence. Sitting alone on the peninsula separating Loch Broom from Little Loch Broom, its relative bulk and rocky summit ridge command the sort of respect usually reserved for mountains much taller. This is a pretty rough walk over largely pathless terrain that reflects Beinn Ghobhlach’s remoteness. You are unlikely to see many people up here. What you will see, provided the clouds stay high, are spectacular panoramas down the peninsula and out to sea with the Outer Hebrides beyond. The views sweep north to Coigach and Assynt, round to the Ullapool hills, and further south to An Teallach and the Great Wilderness beyond. Be prepared though; this relatively small mountain makes you earn the views.

The view from the ridge of Beinn Ghobhlach towards the Outer Hebrides.  © Rosie Robson
The view from the ridge of Beinn Ghobhlach towards the Outer Hebrides.
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Detailed description

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NH0594991837 The delights begin before the walk starts. The single-track road climbs excitingly from the pretty lochside up to the middle of the peninsula and back down to sea level again. There is space at the end of the road for a few cars to park in Badrallach. Set off westwards on the excellent coastal path.

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NH0490292145 If you were to continue on the coastal path, it would make for a lovely low-level walk to the isolated settlement of Scoraig. For this walk, however, we will now abandon such luxuries as paths until we meet this one again towards the end of the walk. After about 1km, bear off to the right and head diagonally up the slopes to the spot height of 338m. Considering its elevation, this spot offers wonderful views both to the south and to the mountain you're about to climb.
Looking over to Sail Mhor on the ascent of Beinn Ghobhlach.  © Rosie Robson
Looking over to Sail Mhor on the ascent of Beinn Ghobhlach.
© Rosie Robson, May 2019

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NH0457092822 If you like you can drop down and head directly for Beinn Ghobhlach between Loch na h-Uidhe and Loch na Coireig. This route, however, follows the tempting ridge to the east which then swings round to the north via two peaceful lochans. You can choose your way between the rocky outcrops before descending to the rather boggy bealach. From here, it is a straightforward but steep ascent to the spectacular summit.

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NH0558194281 The brilliant Coire Dearg is now revealed and instead of heading straight down, it is well worth taking a detour around the summit ridge. Impressive cliffs with sheer drops define the northern side of the mountain, in contrast to the relatively tame slopes and crags that were ascended on the south side. When suitably satisfied, drop fairly steeply into Coire Dearg before marching towards the west-southwest over the plateau.

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NH0394394154 Where the ground begins to steepen again, carefully pick your way down through the outcrops, turning towards the south. Re-join the coastal path which is a welcome treat after a few hours of heather and rock. Initially this takes a rather exciting form as it skirts round Creag a' Chadha before easing you back to the car.
Returning from Bein Ghobhlach along the coastal path next to Little Loch Broom.  © Rosie Robson
Returning from Bein Ghobhlach along the coastal path next to Little Loch Broom.
© Rosie Robson, May 2019

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Further Routes

by Rosie Robson



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