NR9644 : Summit camp on Caisteal Abhail

Caisteal Abhail

859m Elevation
427m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NR9644 : Summit camp on Caisteal Abhail

Raibeart MacAoidh Photo source

Explore routes near Caisteal Abhail

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

Goatfell from Cladach

10 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Ben Lomond in the trossachs

12.1 km Hard

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Beinn Ime from Succoth

15.1 km ~7h Hard

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The Cobbler from Succoth Carpark

10.5 km ~6h Hard

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Route planning notes

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

Caisteal Abhail Circuit

A popular route that combines the ascent of Caisteal Abhail with the surrounding hills, offering stunning views and a bit of variety.

8 km ~4 hours Moderate

East Ridge Ascend

A direct ascent from the east ridge which includes some scrambling over rocky patches. A real leg-stretcher that rewards with spectacular panoramas.

5 km ~3 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Corbett Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

859m

2,818 ft

Prominence

427m

Coordinates

55.6499, -5.2293

NR969443

OS Map

62 69

Explorer: 361N

At the Summit

The summit boasts a prominent cairn and views that can easily turn a hiker into a poet (or at least give it a good try!).

Terrain & Geology

Rugged and rocky with patches of grassy slopes. You might find a bog or two to keep your boots entertained.

Caisteal Abhail is primarily composed of granite, which is characteristic of many peaks in the Scottish Highlands. The rugged terrain and steep cliffs were shaped by glacial activity, leaving stark contrasts in elevation and dramatic rock formations that can inspire both awe and trepidation.

Views & Scenery

Views of the surrounding Paps of Jura, and the expansive beauty of the Islay coast. On a clear day, you may spot the distant peaks of the Hebrides.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Caisteal Abhail translates to 'Castle of the Abhainn', referring to the nearby river.

Historical Significance

This peak has been a landmark for generations, guiding both locals and adventurous souls through the wilderness.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small parking area at the start of the trail just off the A846, near the village of Port Askaig.

Public Transport

Services from Bowmore to Port Askaig run regularly, making it a breeze to arrive by bus.

Nearby Facilities

Local cafes in Port Askaig offer refreshments, and public toilets are available near the harbour, though facilities can be sparse in more remote areas of the Highlands.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loosely consolidated rocks can be found on the steeper sections; watch your footing. Summer can bring unexpected weather changes, so pack accordingly.

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 Caisteal Abhail?

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

Are there other walkers around Caisteal Abhail?

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 Caisteal Abhail search or of course create your own walk for Caisteal Abhail

Can I organise a walk to Caisteal Abhail?

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 Caisteal Abhail.

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 Caisteal Abhail?

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 Caisteal Abhail 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

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NR969443

View on OpenStreetMap

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Nearby Hills

Cir Mhor

798m

Goatfell [Goat Fell]

875m

Ailsa Craig

339m

Beinn Ghlas

420m

 The Cobbler [Ben Arthur]

The Cobbler [Ben Arthur]

884m
See 5 more nearby hills