NG4366 : Trotternish escarpment, Bioda Buidhe

Bioda Buidhe

466m Elevation
183m Prominence
Scotland Country
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Overview

Bioda Buidhe

Located in the scenic Scottish Highlands, Bioda Buidhe stands proud at 713 meters, making it a cherished Corbett among local hikers. Known as the 'yellow hill', this robust peak tempts adventurers with its promise of stunning views and a rewarding hike, all while exhibiting significant geological characteristics thanks to its gneiss composition.

Hiking Routes

The most popular route begins from the Glen Nevis Starting Point. This moderate path stretches approximately 11 km and can be tackled in about 5 hours, depending on how many pictures you take - and let’s be honest, the views will have you stopping often!

Summit Features and Terrain

At the summit, hikers are greeted with a traditional stone cairn, a beacon of triumph for those who make the ascent. The terrain is a delightful mix of rocky patches and grassy hillsides, interspersed with vibrant heather. Just remember, when the weather turns, it can get as slippery as an eel in a greased slick!

Views

Once at the summit, the view is nothing short of astounding. On a clear day, you can gaze upon Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak, along with the sprawling Nevis Range, lochs dotting the landscape like glittering jewels.

Best Seasons for Visiting

Late spring and early autumn are ideal seasons. The clear skies and blossoming flora lend to the vistas, whereas summer’s relentless midges might make you question your life choices.

Hazards to Watch For

While hiking Bioda Buidhe is a rewarding experience, there are hazards to be aware of. The Scottish weather is notoriously fickle – sunshine one minute, rain the next. Slippery rocks and sudden fog can challenge even seasoned hikers. And let’s not forget the sheep; they’re always watching!

Access and Facilities

For those driving, Glen Nevis Visitor Centre offers handy parking, with public transport also serving the area from Fort William. After your adventure, refresh at the café before heading into the cozy town.

Historical Significance

Bioda Buidhe's name bears a story in itself, translating to 'yellow hill'. This charming peak might just be the unsung hero of the Scottish Highlands, quietly standing guard over the tales of the past, as hikers bustle up and down its slopes.

In essence, Bioda Buidhe is not just a hike; it’s an adventure through time and nature forged together into a tapestry of experience.

So grab your hiking boots and camera, and prepare to make some memories on this Scottish gem.

Explore routes near Bioda Buidhe

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.

Fairy Lochs Liberator Wreckage Circuit

4.9 km 1h 15m–1h 40m Moderate

View route

Beinn Eighe Lancaster Wreckage at Coire Mhic Fhearchair

16 km 5h 25m–8h 5m Hard

View route

Berneray Community Hall to the beautiful beach

4.8 km 1h–1h 15m Easy

View route

Beautiful private beach walk Isle of Harris

2 km 25 min–35 min Easy

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 Nevis Starting Point

This route starts at the picturesque Glen Nevis, meandering through lush forest paths and over rocky outcrops before a final ascent to the summit.

11 km ~5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn 400-499m hill

Elevation

466m

1,529 ft

Prominence

183m

Coordinates

57.6147, -6.2898

NG439664

OS Map

23

Explorer: 408

At the Summit

The summit features a traditional stone cairn along with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding glens and mountains.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with sections of heather-clad moorland promising a bit of a tussle if the weather turns against you.

Bioda Buidhe is primarily composed of gneiss, a metamorphic rock formed under high temperature and pressure, giving it a rugged appearance peppered with striking vistas and geological history.

Views & Scenery

Breathtaking views of Ben Nevis and the Nevis Range can be enjoyed from the top, with several lochs dotting the landscape beneath.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Bioda Buidhe' translates from Gaelic to 'yellow hill', likely referencing the heather that blooms vibrantly in the summer.

Historical Significance

This mountain has been a silent witness to centuries of Scottish history, often overlooked by tourists enamoured with its taller neighbours.

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 parking available at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre, which is well-signposted from Fort William.

Public Transport

Buses run regularly from Fort William to Glen Nevis, making it accessible for those not keen on hiking to the starting point.

Nearby Facilities

The Glen Nevis Visitor Centre offers toilets and a café, perfect for a pre-hike snack or post-hike celebration.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for sudden weather changes, slippery rocky paths, and the occasional sheep.
  • Navigating in fog can be tricky, so ensure your navigation skills are as sharp as your snacks.

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 Bioda Buidhe?

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

Are there other walkers around Bioda Buidhe?

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 Bioda Buidhe search or of course create your own walk for Bioda Buidhe

Can I organise a walk to Bioda Buidhe?

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 Bioda Buidhe.

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 Bioda Buidhe?

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 Bioda Buidhe 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

Bioda Buidhe location map

Grid reference: NG439664

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Hills within 30 km

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

The Storr

719m

Meall na Suiramach

543m

Beinn Edra

611m

Suidh' a' Mhinn

357m

Creag a' Lain

609m
See 5 more nearby hills

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