NS1598 : Beinn Bheula from Creag Dhubh

Beinn Bheula

779m Elevation
557m Prominence
Scotland Country

Good walks are even better shared.

Overview

Beinn Bheula: A Highland Escape

Nestled in the heart of Argyll and Bute, Beinn Bheula stands tall as a Munro that beckons adventurers and nature lovers alike. With an elevation of 941 meters, this stunning peak offers not just a workout for the legs, but a feast for the eyes.

Geology

Beinn Bheula's craggy ridges and rocky cliffs are primarily formed from resilient quartzite. This hardy rock has weathered the elements for millennia, creating the dramatic landscape we see today. Don’t miss the opportunity to admire the layered rock formations that bear witness to nature's artistry.

Routes

Two popular routes to conquer Beinn Bheula are the Glen Croe Route and the Inveruglas Route. Both paths offer unique perspectives and challenges:

Glen Croe Route
  • Distance: 9.0 km
  • Time: 4.0 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate

This approach takes you through captivating woodlands and gradually ascends to the summit. Perfect for a Sunday stroll - just don’t forget the snacks!

Inveruglas Route
  • Distance: 8.5 km
  • Time: 4.5 hours
  • Difficulty: Challenging

For those seeking a bit more excitement, the Inveruglas Route offers steeper sections and rewarding views of Loch Lomond, making the challenge well worth the effort.

Summit Features

Upon reaching the peak, you are greeted by an imposing stone cairn. It’s the ideal spot for that triumphant selfie or perhaps a dramatic slow-motion video of you raising your arms in victory!

Terrain Type

The terrain varies dramatically, with rocky paths and sections of grassy slopes. Beware of the boggy bits if you're on the route after a rain - your boots might not appreciate the impromptu mud bath!

Views

The summit rewards hiker’s efforts with sweeping views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding ranges, including the majestic Arrochar Alps. The best time to soak in these vistas is during the late spring and summer months when the skies are clear, and the landscapes are vibrant.

Hazards

As always in the Highlands, caution is advised. Loose rocks near the summit can make footing tricky, and sudden weather changes can occur. Keep an eye on the sky and your footing, and remember - those rocks aren’t going anywhere!

Nearby Summits

For those who fancy a wee bit of peak bagging, don't miss out on the nearby Beinn Narnain and Ben Vorlich. They are great additions to your hiking itinerary.

Access

Getting to Beinn Bheula is straightforward, with parking available at the Glen Croe car park. Local public transport can take you close, but double-check the schedules to avoid a long walk back.

Facilities

Arrochar offers several cafΓ©s, a few shops, and public toilets for that all-important pit stop before or after your hike.

History

The name 'Beinn Bheula', meaning 'Hill of the Bee', adds a romantic flair to your climb. Historically, this mountain has attracted countless walkers, earning its rightful place as a cherished gem in the Scottish Highlands.

With all these delightful attributes, Beinn Bheula is not just a mountain; it’s an experience waiting to unfold. Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Beinn Bheula

Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.

Glen Croe Route

This popular route begins in the picturesque Glen Croe, offering a well-trodden path that leads hikers through beautiful woodland before ascending to the summit.

9 km ~4 hours Moderate

Inveruglas Route

Starting from Inveruglas on the shores of Loch Lomond, this route offers stunning views of the loch and surrounding peaks. A gradual ascent leads to the rocky summit.

8.5 km ~4.5 hours Challenging
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Corbett Simm

Elevation

779m

2,556 ft

Prominence

557m

Coordinates

56.1418, -4.9715

NS154983

OS Map

56

Explorer: OL37N 363N

At the Summit

The summit features a substantial stone cairn, often surrounded by dramatic views stretching across the surrounding landscapes. Photographers often flock here to capture the panoramic vistas.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with sections of steep ascent; some areas may be boggy after wet weather.

Primarily composed of quartzite, Beinn Bheula showcases classic Highland geology. The summit features rugged cliffs and craggy outcrops, offering a glimpse into Scotland's geological past.

Views & Scenery

Breathtaking panoramas of Loch Lomond and the surrounding hills, including nearby peaks like Beinn Narnain and the Arrochar Alps.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Beinn Bheula' translates to 'Hill of the Bee' in Gaelic, hinting at the potential abundance of flowering plants in the area.

Historical Significance

Beinn Bheula has been a beloved destination for climbers and walkers for many years, showcasing the natural beauty and rugged charm of the Scottish Highlands.

Getting There & Facilities

Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.

Parking

Parking is available at the Glen Croe car park (NS 165 958), which provides direct access to the trails.

Public Transport

Local bus services run to nearby villages, with connections to Glasgow. However, it is recommended to check current schedules before visiting.

Nearby Facilities

While there are no facilities on the mountain itself, Arrochar provides cafés and convenience stores, as well as public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks near the summit, sudden changes in weather, and potential boggy ground in lower sections.

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

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Beinn Bheula?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Beinn Bheula through the maps

Are there other walkers around Beinn Bheula?

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 Beinn Bheula search or of course create your own walk for Beinn Bheula

Can I organise a walk to Beinn Bheula?

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 Beinn Bheula.

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 Beinn Bheula?

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 Beinn Bheula 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

Location

Beinn Bheula location map

Grid reference: NS154983

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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