NM7454 : Beinn Chlaonleud

Beinn Chlaonleud

479m Elevation
273m Prominence
Scotland Country
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Overview

Beinn Chlaonleud: A Hidden Gem in the Highlands

Overview
At a modest height of 602 meters, Beinn Chlaonleud is often overshadowed by the more prominent peaks that litter the Scottish Highlands. However, don't let its stature deceive you; this mountain provides a satisfying challenge combined with breathtaking views that will leave any hiker in awe. It’s like the lesser-known relative who turns out to have the best stories at family gatherings!

Geology
Beinn Chlaonleud's geology is primarily defined by schist, known for its unique layered appearance and the stories trapped within its rocks about thousands of years of geological evolution. This combination of heat, pressure, and time has crafted a landscape that is as fascinating as it is beautiful.

Routes
The Glen Etive Approach is the most popular route to the summit, spanning 9.5 km with an estimated time of 4 hours. This moderate route guides hikers through breathtaking heather-dappled hills and leads to a steep yet manageable ascent towards the peak. Pack your favourite snack; the summit's cairn is the perfect perch to enjoy a well-deserved break!

Summit Features
At the top, you’ll find a lovely cairn awaiting your arrival, along with views that are nothing short of spectacular. It's the type of place that makes your camera weep with delight.

Terrain
Expect a mix of rocky patches, grassy slopes, and occasional boggy sections lower down. Good walking boots are a must—no flip-flops allowed!

Views
The sweeping vistas from the summit include breathtaking sights of Loch Etive and its surrounding peaks, with the iconic Buachaille Etive Mor stealing the show. Spring and early summer are undeniably the best times to visit; the clear skies and blooming heather offer a view that is the stuff of legends.

Hazards
A common Scottish tale: a lovely sunny start can quickly turn into a rain-soaked adventure. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and remember to watch your footing on loose rocks, especially during your ascent and descent.

Access and Facilities
Nearest parking can be found at a small layby on the A82 at Dalness. Tyndrum, located around 12 miles north, serves as the closest town with basic amenities including cafes and toilets. Remember, you can take a wee break here before tackling the hills!

History
With a name meaning 'mountain of the mist', Beinn Chlaonleud has quite the reputation to uphold. It's a place that carries historical significance amid the peaks and valleys, providing solitude and unmatched beauty to those willing to explore its paths.

Embark on your Beinn Chlaonleud adventure and discover a slice of Scotland’s natural beauty that may leave you wondering why it isn’t the first item on everyone’s hiking bucket lists!

Last Updated: 2023-10-01

Explore routes near Beinn Chlaonleud

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.

Ben Nevis via Mountain Path

15.6 km 5h 15m–7h 50m Hard

View route

Banavie to Glen Loy Aqueduct: Neptune’s Staircase Canal Towpath

13.3 km 2h 45m–3h 25m Easy

View route

Crinan Canal: Bellanoch and Dunardry towpath return

10.6 km 2h 10m–2h 40m Easy

View route

West Highland Way: Tyndrum to Bridge of Orchy

10.2 km 2h 35m–3h 25m Moderate

View route

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 Etive Approach

A scenic route starting from Glen Etive, allowing for a gradual ascent through heather and grass before tackling the steeper summit slopes.

9.5 km ~4 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn 400-499m hill

Elevation

479m

1,572 ft

Prominence

273m

Coordinates

56.6262, -5.6726

NM748542

OS Map

49

Explorer: 383E 383W

At the Summit

The summit is adorned with a modest cairn, offering a perfect spot for a well-earned snack and a panoramic view of the surrounding wilderness.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with patches of heather and boggy areas especially in the lower sections.

Beinn Chlaonleud is composed primarily of schist, which is a metamorphic rock formed under heat and pressure. Its rocky terrain showcases the age-old geological processes that have shaped the Scottish landscape over millions of years.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can admire magnificent views of the surrounding peaks, including the famous Buachaille Etive Mor, as well as the expansive vistas of Loch Etive.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Chlaonleud' is derived from Gaelic, translating to 'mountain of the mist' which is fitting given the often misty weather of the area.

Historical Significance

Beinn Chlaonleud holds its own among the scenic jewels of the Scottish Highlands, often less frequented than its towering neighbours, making it a fantastic option for those seeking solitude.

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

There is a small layby on the A82 at Dalness, which provides access to the Glen Etive approach. Parking can be competitive during peak times.

Public Transport

Limited public transport options are available; best reached by car. The nearest bus stop is in Tyndrum, from where you can arrange further transport.

Nearby Facilities

Tyndrum offers basic facilities, including cafes, shops, and toilets for a convenient pit stop before or after your hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of loose rocks, particularly on the steeper sections. Weather can change rapidly, so always check forecasts before heading out.

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 Chlaonleud?

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

Are there other walkers around Beinn Chlaonleud?

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

Can I organise a walk to Beinn Chlaonleud?

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 Chlaonleud.

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 Chlaonleud?

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 Chlaonleud 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 Chlaonleud location map

Grid reference: NM748542

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

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Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.

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