Corranabinnia [Coire na Binne]
Good walks are even better shared.
F9003 : View towards Corranabinnia SW Top from Corranabinnia
Colin Park Photo source
Overview
Corranabinnia [Coire na Binne]
Corranabinnia, with its intriguing name meaning 'the turn of the peak', is a delightful Marilyn in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Standing proudly at 795 meters, this mountain is a favourite among local hikers who enjoy the less-trodden paths of the wilderness.
Geology
The geological features of Corranabinnia are predominantly Moine schist, which tells a tale of ancient geological processes at work. These unique formations are not only interesting to look at but provide valuable lessons on the forces of nature that shaped this stunning landscape. You might even say it’s a 'rocking' experience—pun intended!
Routes
The most popular route is the North-East Ridge Route, which stretches about 8.5 km and typically takes a healthy 4.5 hours to ascend. This route is considered moderate in difficulty, which means you might break a sweat, but perhaps not enough to claim the summit as a personal Everest! Starting from Achnasheen, it provides a fabulous opportunity to soak in the highland charm.
Summit Features
At the summit, adventurers are greeted by a quaint cairn—the perfect backdrop for your summit selfies. Trust me, there's no better way to justify that extra slice of cake at the end of your hike than with a mighty view!
Terrain
Expect a mix of grassy slopes dotted with rocky outcrops along your journey. Just keep your wits about you, especially after a rain shower, as things can get a tad slippery. You might want to scope out that ideal marshy patch to avoid, unless you fancy a mud bath!
Views
From the top, the panorama is nothing short of awe-inspiring, with sweeping vistas that include An Teallach and the broader landscape of the Scottish Highlands. The best time to visit? Late spring to early autumn, when the sun is more likely to shine and the heather blooms in all its purple glory.
Hazards
While hiking Corranabinnia isn’t known for peril, do keep an eye out for the sudden weather changes typical of the Highlands; what starts as sunshine could easily morph into a downpour faster than you can say 'Scottish summer'. And don’t forget to mind your step on those pebbles—it could be embarassingly amusing to take a tumble!
Access
For those driving, there’s a handy layby on the A832 near Varrich suitable for parking. Just ensure you’re not blocking any access. For public transport users, the nearest option is the train station at Achnasheen, which offers limited connections but is a good start. The quaint village is also a lovely place to enjoy a hot cup of tea after your climb.
Facilities
Alas, facilities are sparse right near the mountain; Achnasheen does have a small shop for snack provisions, plus a few places to stay should you choose to linger. After all, what’s better than a mountain adventure followed by a comfy bed?
Conclusion
In summary, Corranabinnia is a hidden treasure for lovers of the outdoors—perfect for those looking to escape the hustle of more popular hiking routes. With its unique geology, stunning views, and surprisingly accommodating summit, it’s definitely worth a visit!
Happy hiking, and may your boots never get stuck in the mud!
Explore routes near Corranabinnia [Coire na Binne]
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.
North-East Ridge Route
Starting from the village of Achnasheen, this route follows the North-East ridgeline, offering both an exhilarating climb and stunning views of the sheltered glens below.
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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F9003 : View towards Corranabinnia SW Top from Corranabinnia
Colin Park
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F9003 : The eastern ridge from Corranabinnia
Colin Park
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F9003 : The trig point on summit of Corranabinnia
Colin Park
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
714m
2,343 ft
Prominence
540m
Coordinates
53.9662, -9.6722
F903031
OS Map
30
At the Summit
At the summit, you will find a small cairn and a stunning view in every direction—a perfect spot for a celebratory snack or, surprisingly, an impromptu photo shoot.
Terrain & Geology
The predominant geology of Corranabinnia consists of Moine schist, which has been subject to metamorphic processes, resulting in dramatic landscape features. The striking ridges and rock formations provide excellent opportunities for budding geologists to explore the intricacies of mountain formation.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, expect breathtaking vistas of the surrounding hills, including the mighty An Teallach to the south, and the expansive vistas across the Scottish Highlands.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Corranabinnia' is derived from Gaelic, meaning 'the turn of the peak', aptly describing its striking appearance.
Historical Significance
Corranabinnia is known among local hikers as a gem of a hill, often overlooked but providing solitude and stunning views away from more popular peaks.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
The nearest parking is at the small layby on the A832 near the farm of Varrich, where there is enough space for several cars. Care should be taken not to obstruct local traffic.
Public Transport
Public transport options are limited; the nearest regular service is from the nearest town of Achnasheen, which has a train station and bus links from Inverness and Strathpeffer.
Nearby Facilities
There are no facilities directly on site; however, Achnasheen has a small shop and a few accommodation options if you need to restock or stay the night.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Be cautious of sudden weather changes, which are common in this region. Also, the rocky sections can be slippery when wet, poses a trip hazard, and some areas are boggy, especially after heavy rain.
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 Corranabinnia [Coire na Binne]?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Corranabinnia [Coire na Binne] through the maps
Are there other walkers around Corranabinnia [Coire na Binne]?
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 Corranabinnia [Coire na Binne] search or of course create your own walk for Corranabinnia [Coire na Binne]
Can I organise a walk to Corranabinnia [Coire na Binne]?
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 Corranabinnia [Coire na Binne].
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 Corranabinnia [Coire na Binne]?
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 Corranabinnia [Coire na Binne] here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
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Location
![Corranabinnia [Coire na Binne] location map](https://cdn.walkmates.com/hill-maps/hill-sources/20084/53.96620_-9.67217.png)
Grid reference: F903031
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