Am Basteir
Am Basteir Group Walks | Join a Walk
Join group walks, find walking companions and friends, or organise your own!
Classifications
Looking for walking companions?
Don't walk alone! Find friendly walkers to explore Am Basteir together. Join scheduled group walks or start your own.
Elevation
934m
3,064 ft
Prominence
49m
Coordinates
57.2479, -6.2030
NG465253
OS Map
32
Explorer: 411
At the Summit
The summit features a magnificent rocky outcrop with a small cairn, offering a delightful excuse for a photo op or a moment of reflection.
Terrain & Geology
Am Basteir is primarily composed of gabbro, a type of igneous rock that is known for its durability. This rock offers a rugged landscape, making it a perfect backdrop for some stunning photography and the occasional sheep or two.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Cuillin Ridge, Loch Coruisk and the surrounding lands of Skye. Don't forget your camera; the views are absolutely Instagram-worthy!
History & Heritage
Name Origin
Am Basteir translates to 'the pinnacle', which is quite fitting given its striking appearance.
Historical Significance
The mountain is a prominent feature in Scottish history and folklore, often associated with ancient tales and legends of the Isle of Skye.
Photo Gallery
View allPopular Routes
Am Basteir via Coire a' Bhasteir
ChallengingThis is the most commonly used route to ascend Am Basteir, starting from the Sligachan Hotel. The walk follows the well-defined path along Allt Dearg Beag into Coire a' Bhasteir. From the corrie, the route ascends steeply up scree slopes to the base of Am Basteir, before tackling the rocky scramble to the summit. The route offers breathtaking views of the Cuillin Ridge and surrounding peaks.
Am Basteir and Sgurr nan Gillean Traverse
Very ChallengingThis classic route combines an ascent of Am Basteir with its neighbouring peak, Sgurr nan Gillean. Starting from Sligachan, the route climbs into Coire a' Bhasteir before tackling Am Basteir. From there, a narrow and exposed ridge is followed to reach Sgurr nan Gillean. The descent is via the Tourist Route back to Sligachan. This is a demanding and highly exposed scramble suitable for experienced climbers.
Am Basteir via Lota Corrie
ChallengingAn alternative approach to Am Basteir via Lota Corrie. Starting from Glen Brittle, this route ascends through the rugged and remote Lota Corrie before joining the ridge near Bruach na Frithe. From here, the route traverses to Am Basteir. This approach is less frequented and offers a quieter but equally spectacular experience.
Circular Route: Am Basteir and Bruach na Frithe
Moderate to ChallengingThis circular route starts from Sligachan and combines Am Basteir with Bruach na Frithe, offering a less exposed option along the Cuillin Ridge. The route ascends through Coire a' Bhasteir to reach Am Basteir, then continues along the ridge to Bruach na Frithe, before descending back to Sligachan. A great choice for those looking for a slightly less technical day out.
Am Basteir Scramble from Coire na Creiche
Very ChallengingStarting from the Fairy Pools car park in Glen Brittle, this route follows a path into Coire na Creiche and ascends steeply to the Bealach a' Mhaim. From here, the route involves a sustained scramble to reach the summit of Am Basteir. This route provides a dramatic perspective of the Cuillin Ridge but is only recommended for experienced scramblers.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
Sligachan Hotel offers ample parking for hikers. Make sure to arrive early as spaces fill up, especially during the summer months.
Public Transport
There are buses that run to Sligachan from Portree, making it accessible even if you fancy leaving the car at home.
Nearby Facilities
The Sligachan Hotel provides refreshments, and toilets, and the bar is well-stocked to help you replenish post-adventure.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Loose rock on ascents can unceremoniously send you for an unexpected slide, so watch your footing. Be also wary of changing weather – a sunny day can quickly turn into a Scottish drizzle!
General Safety Tips
- Check weather conditions before setting out
- Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
- Let someone know your planned route
- Take a map, compass, and GPS device
- Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch
Find Walking Companions
Join friendly walkers exploring Am Basteir and surrounding area
Walks Near Am Basteir
More walks starting close to this area
Berneray Community Hall to the beautiful beach
Ben Nevis via Mountain Path
Beautiful private beach walk Isle of Harris
Create a walk and let others join you. It's free and easy!
Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Am Basteir?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Am Basteir through the maps
Are there other walkers around Am Basteir?
Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Am Basteir search or of course create your own walk for Am Basteir
Can I organise a walk to Am Basteir?
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Am Basteir.
How do I find a walk up this hill?
There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.
Can I suggest a new route up Am Basteir?
Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.
Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Am Basteir here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid Ref: NG465253
Nearby Hills
Bruach na Frithe
959m
Sgurr nan Gillean
966m
Sgurr a' Ghreadaidh
972m
Sgurr Alasdair
992m
Sgurr Dearg - Inaccessible Pinnacle
986m
+ 5 more nearby hills
More Walks Nearby
Find more walking companions in the area
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!