Laibheal a' Deas
Good walks are even better shared.
NB0223 : Lochan close to summit of Laibheal a Deas
Julian Paren Photo source
Overview
Laibheal a' Deas
Overview: Laibheal a' Deas is a delightful peak situated in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. At an elevation of 550 meters, it may not be the highest, but it surely packs a punch in terms of views and accessibility. Ideal for both seasoned hikers and newcomers, this mountain offers a taste of Scotland's natural splendour.
Geology: The rugged outdoors of Laibheal a' Deas is steeped in geological history. Composed primarily of granite interspersed with metamorphic rocks, the landscape reveals the ancient forces that shaped the Highlands millions of years ago. Keep your eyes peeled for interesting rock formations; geological wonders are everywhere!
Routes: One of the most popular routes is the Ben Ledi Circuit, which starts from Callander. Covering about 12 km in distance and taking roughly 4.5 hours to complete, this moderate trek is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the scenery. The circuit is well-marked and offers plenty of opportunities to catch your breath while soaking in the views.
Summit Features: Reaching the top, hikers will find the summit has a substantial cairn, a proud pile of stones that stands as a testament to all who have embarked upon this journey. It’s the perfect spot to stop for a well-deserved snack and to take those epic summit selfies!
Terrain Type: Expect a bit of everything: rocky outcrops, grassy patches, and yes, a half-hearted bog or two! Sturdy footwear is your best friend, as the terrain can vary significantly, particularly after rainfall.
Views: The 360-degree vistas from Laibheal a' Deas are second to none. With Loch Lubnaig shimmering in the distance and the craggy peaks of the Trossachs National Park looming like old friends, you'll want to bring a camera (or two). The best months to visit are late spring and autumn when the landscape bursts into colour.
Hazards: While the views are breathtaking, don't let your guard down! Sudden weather changes can surprise even the most seasoned hikers. Always check the local forecast and prepare accordingly. Muddy trails can also pose challenges, so tread carefully to avoid slipping.
Nearby Summits: Complete your Highland adventure by summiting
- Ben Ledi (879 meters) - a magnificent beast that is a must for every hiker and
- Meall Dhir (726 meters) - an excellent addition to your trip if you’re feeling adventurous!
Access: You can park at the Ben Ledi car park on the A84, making access straightforward. For those relying on public transport, services connect Calander to the surrounding areas.
Facilities: Callander is a charming village, boasting lovely cafes and restaurants, perfect for refuelling after your day on the hills. Public toilets are also available, so you can freshen up before the journey home.
History: The name Laibheal a' Deas translates to 'the southern summit' in Gaelic—a nod to its geographical position amongst its higher neighbours. Historically, this area has been a site of cultural significance, with ancient clans roaming these rugged hills long ago.
In summary, Laibheal a' Deas offers a delightful escape into nature, promising views, history, and a good laugh along the way. Always remember to leave no trace and respect the natural environment, because, after all, it’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey!
Enjoy your adventures!
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Ben Ledi Circuit
A popular circuit starting from the village of Callander, offering stunning views throughout.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
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NB0223 : Lochan close to summit of Laibheal a Deas
Julian Paren
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
501m
1,644 ft
Prominence
53m
Coordinates
58.1005, -7.0509
NB025235
OS Map
13
Explorer: 458
At the Summit
A prominent cairn marks the summit, giving hikers a great photo opportunity to pose with the windswept landscape behind them.
Terrain & Geology
Primarily composed of granite and metamorphic rocks, the geology of Laibheal a' Deas showcases the rugged and ancient history of the Scottish Highlands, with rock formations dating back to the Precambrian era.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can see the expansive sight of Loch Lubnaig and beyond, with the majestic peaks of the Trossachs National Park as backdrop.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
Laibheal a' Deas translates to 'the southern summit' in Gaelic, highlighting its geographical significance.
Historical Significance
This area has been a popular hiking destination for centuries, celebrated not only for its natural beauty but also for the rich cultural history of the nearby clans.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
There is parking available at the Ben Ledi car park, accessible off the A84 near Callander.
Public Transport
The nearest bus services operate from Callander with connections to larger towns. Check local schedules for updates.
Nearby Facilities
Callander offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and public toilets, making it a convenient base before embarking on your adventure.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Watch for sudden weather changes; the Scottish weather can be as fickle as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs. Also, muddy paths can be treacherous, so sturdy footwear is advised.
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 Laibheal a' Deas?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Laibheal a' Deas through the maps
Are there other walkers around Laibheal a' Deas?
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 Laibheal a' Deas search or of course create your own walk for Laibheal a' Deas
Can I organise a walk to Laibheal a' Deas?
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 Laibheal a' Deas.
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 Laibheal a' Deas?
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 Laibheal a' Deas 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
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Location
Grid reference: NB025235
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