Conachair
Good walks are even better shared.
NA1000 : Conachair, detail
Richard Webb Photo source
Explore routes near Conachair
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Mingulay Bay Approach
A scenic route starting from Mingulay Bay, offering spectacular coastal views before the ascent. The trail meanders through heathland before tackling the steeper slopes of Conachair.
Diridh Approach
Approaching from Diridh, this route is shorter but steeper. It cuts through dense heather and offers a more direct ascent with some exhilarating scrambles.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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NA1000 : Conachair, detail
Richard Webb
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NA1000 : Conachair cliffs with Soay beyond
Alan Reid
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NA1000 : Aircraft wreckage on Conachair
Gordon Brown
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NA1000 : Conachair
Richard Webb
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NA1000 : How to deter a Bonxie
Gordon Brown
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NA0900 : North side of Conachair
Richard Webb
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NA1000 : Screes and cliffs of Conachair (430 m) on St Kilda
Mick Crawley
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NA0900 : Conachair, St Kilda
Rude Health
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NA0900 : Summit cairn on Conachair
Gordon Brown
NA0900 : Summit of Conachair
John Allan
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
430m
1,411 ft
Prominence
430m
Coordinates
57.8210, -8.5733
NA099002
OS Map
18
Explorer: 460W
At the Summit
The summit features a prominent cairn, which is often adorned with stones left by fellow adventurers. On a clear day, you'll catch a glimpse of distant islands and the azure sea, a sight to warm even the coldest Scottish heart.
Terrain & Geology
Conachair is primarily composed of Lewisian gneiss, one of the oldest rock types in the UK. The mountain's rugged terrain and outcrops provide a glimpse into the geological history that spans billions of years, showcasing a rich tapestry of metamorphic processes.
Views & Scenery
The view from Conachair is breathtaking, with vistas including the nearby islands of Barra and the mainland mountains in the distance. Keep an eye out for seabirds soaring below you.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Conachair' is derived from the Gaelic 'Conaich', meaning 'the place of the conifers', which reflects the past abundance of trees before the area was largely cleared.
Historical Significance
Conachair holds cultural significance for local communities, often revered in folklore and as a symbol of the wild beauty of the Outer Hebrides.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
Parking can be found in a designated area near Mingulay Bay. It's a small but convenient spot with space for a handful of cars.
Public Transport
Public transport to the area is quite limited. The best bet is to catch a bus to the nearby village of Daliburgh, then arrange a taxi to the trailhead.
Nearby Facilities
There are some facilities in Lochboisdale, including small shops and cafes. Public toilets may also be found there.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- The terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain. Be wary of sudden weather changes typical of the highlands.
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 Conachair?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Conachair through the maps
Are there other walkers around Conachair?
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 Conachair search or of course create your own walk for Conachair
Can I organise a walk to Conachair?
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 Conachair.
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 Conachair?
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 Conachair 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
Community Discussion
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Location
View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.
Grid reference: NA099002
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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