NN5441 : Cairn, Beinn nan Oighreag

Beinn nan Oighreag

910m Elevation
272m Prominence
Scotland Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NN5441 : Cairn, Beinn nan Oighreag

Richard Webb Photo source

Overview

Beinn nan Oighreag

Beinn nan Oighreag stands tall at 707 meters in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. With its rugged granite faces and charming heather-filled slopes, it’s a sight to behold, attracting hikers from all walks of life.

Geology

The dominant granite composition gives the mountain its impressive stature and challenging faces. Glacial activity has helped shape the landscape, leaving behind depressions and unique rock formations perfect for any budding geologist.

Access and Parking

For those venturing up Beinn nan Oighreag, the nearest parking is available at a designated car park along Glen Fyne, only a mile from the trailhead. If you're relying on public transport, the nearest bus stop is located in Strachur. Make sure to check the schedules, as the rural services can be a bit sparse.

Routes

Two primary routes will take you to the summit, either from the west side via Glen Fyne or the more direct approach from the eastern shores of Loch Fyne. Both offer their unique challenges and panoramic views, so choose based on your desire for adventure.

Summit Features

When you finally set foot on the summit, you’ll find a sturdy cairn that acts as a perfect backdrop for a summit selfie. The view from this height can make even the grouchiest of hikers lighten up.

Terrain and Views

The trek involves a mix of rocky and grassy terrain, so the trusty hiking boots will come in handy. But the climb is well worth it as you are greeted with breathtaking sights, including Loch Fyne and the mighty Arrochar Alps. Best enjoyed in the warmer months, the heather adds a splash of colour to the landscape.

Hazards

As with any mountain adventure, it’s crucial to be cautious of sudden weather changes and the various terrain challenges. A waterproof jacket and some sturdy footwear are not just suggestions; they’re essentials!

Nearby Summits

If adventure calls, consider bagging neighbouring hills like Beinn a' Chiste and Beinn Mhor. They make for fantastic companions on your hiking journey, and who doesn’t love a good two-for-one deal?

History

The name Beinn nan Oighreag, meaning 'Hill of the Orphans,' hints at a rich tapestry of stories from Yore. Tread carefully and you might just feel the whispers of the past in the gentle Highland breeze.

Enjoy your adventure on Beinn nan Oighreag! Stay safe and keep your eyes peeled for those stunning views.

Explore routes near Beinn nan Oighreag

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Killin: Falls of Dochart, Finlarig and Moirlanich Longhouse

6.5 km ~2h 30m Moderate

View route

Kenmore: Drummond Hill Black Rock Trail above Loch Tay

4.6 km ~2h Moderate

View route

Aberfeldy: Glassie Woodland and River Tay Circular

7.5 km ~3h Moderate

View route

Loch Lubnaig: West Shore Railway Path from Ben Ledi Car Park

7.6 km ~2h 45m Easy

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

West from Glen Fyne

This route leads you up from Glen Fyne, offering a gradual ascent with stunning views of the surrounding hills. The path winds through heather and grasslands before reaching the rocky summit.

9.5 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

East Approach from Loch Fyne

Starting from the shores of Loch Fyne, this approach takes a more direct route up the steep slopes, rewarding hikers with panoramic views upon reaching the summit. Perfect for those looking for a more challenging hike.

7.2 km ~3.5 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.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Corbett Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

910m

2,984 ft

Prominence

272m

Coordinates

56.5401, -4.3732

NN541412

OS Map

51

Explorer: OL48W 378W

At the Summit

The summit features a substantial cairn which offers a perfect opportunity for a well-deserved rest and a photo op. Sometimes, it feels a bit like the community centre for the local wildlife, especially on a sunny day!

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky outcrops and grassy plateaus. Watch your step as the rocks can be a tad slippery especially in wet conditions.

Beinn nan Oighreag is primarily composed of granite, giving it a rugged appearance and contributing to its steep slopes. The surrounding area features glacial remnants, making it a fascinating site for geology enthusiasts.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the sparkling waters of Loch Fyne, the peaks of the Arrochar Alps, and on a clear day, the distant Jura mountains.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Beinn nan Oighreag translates to 'Hill of the Orphans' in Gaelic, possibly alluding to a historical connection with the area or local legends.

Historical Significance

The mountain holds cultural significance tied to local folklore, suggesting that it was a refuge during turbulent times.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a car park at the end of the road leading from the A815 to Glen Fyne, approximately 1 mile from the trailhead.

Public Transport

The nearest bus stop is in the village of Strachur, which is a 20-minute drive from Glen Fyne. Regular buses run from Dunoon and Inveraray.

Nearby Facilities

Inveraray offers several facilities, including cafés, shops and toilets. Make sure to hydrate and fuel up before your hike!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Sudden weather changes can occur, so it's wise to pack a waterproof jacket. Also, be cautious of loose rocks and steep drops, particularly on the approach paths.

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 nan Oighreag?

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

Are there other walkers around Beinn nan Oighreag?

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 nan Oighreag search or of course create your own walk for Beinn nan Oighreag

Can I organise a walk to Beinn nan Oighreag?

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 nan Oighreag.

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 nan Oighreag?

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 nan Oighreag 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 nan Oighreag location map

Grid reference: NN541412

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Nearby Hills

Ben Lawers

1,214m

An Stuc

1,117m

Ben More

1,174m

 Stob Binnein

Stob Binnein

1,165m

 Ben Vorlich

Ben Vorlich

985m
See 5 more nearby hills