NJ2939 : Little Conval Trig Point Flush Bracket S7213

Little Conval

553m Elevation
165m Prominence
Scotland Country
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Overview

Little Conval: A Hidden Gem of the Scottish Highlands

Welcome to Little Conval, a Marilyn that offers an intriguing blend of stunning scenery and historical significance. Standing at 747 metres, it may not be the tallest peak on the block, but what it lacks in elevation, it makes up for in charm.

Geology

Little Conval is primarily composed of ancient volcanic rock, shaped by the relentless forces of nature over millennia. The surrounding areas are adorned with granite and schist, remnants of Scotland's geological history and glacial activity that encouraged the formation of this beautiful landscape.

Routes

The Little Conval Circular Route begins in Aberlour, winding its way through picturesque scenery. Expect a distance of about 8.0 km, which should take approximately 3.5 hours to complete. The route is classified as moderate, carefully balancing exhilarating ascents with opportunities to catch your breath and soak in the views.

Summit Features

Upon reaching the summit, you’ll find a delightful stone cairn that stands proudly against the backdrop of the highlands -- just don’t mistake it for a penguin! It’s an excellent spot for a well-deserved rest, offering a classic view over the surrounding area.

Terrain

The terrain is largely grassy with some rocky patches, ensuring a landscape that varies enough to keep even the most seasoned hikers entertained. Just keep your eyes peeled for muddier spots that may require a bit of tactical stepping!

Views

From the summit, the panoramic views are nothing short of breathtaking. Gaze across the rolling hills of the Spey Valley with majestic peaks like Ben Rinnes looming in the distance. The best times to relish these sites are in spring or autumn, when the landscape bursts with colours and contrasts.

Hazards

Despite its beauty, we must tip our hats to potential hazards. Weather changes can occur at the drop of a hat, and slippery terrain makes sturdy footwear a must. Plus, keep an eye out for sheep who may be less aware of humans’ intentions!

Access

Getting to Little Conval is hassle-free. There’s a quaint public car park close to Aberlour where your adventure begins. Bus services from larger towns like Elgin make reaching the start of your hike even more straightforward, allowing you to experience this highland gem without the hassle of driving.

Facilities

If a caffeine boost or snack is needed, Aberlour is home to several lovely cafes and shops. Plus, for those urgent moments, public toilets are available in the village.

History

The name Conval is likely derived from ‘Conbhaile’, referring to its historical significance in the region. Worthy of note, Little Conval has been a favourite among walkers and climbers, each eager to absorb the local folklore and keep company with the sheep along the paths.

Conclusion

In summary, Little Conval is a splendid destination for anyone keen to explore the Scottish Highlands. It serves as an invitation to enjoy nature while also indulging in a bit of local history. Pack up your walking boots and get set to discover this hidden gem!

Explore routes near Little Conval

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.

Aberlour to Carron Bridge: Speyside Way riverside return

9.9 km 2h–2h 30m Easy

View route

Craigellachie to Aberlour: Speyside Railway Path Return

7.7 km 1h 35m–2h Easy

View route

Elgin guided night walk

View route

Speyside Way: Buckie to Fochabers via Spey Bay

17.7 km 4h 30m–5h 55m Moderate

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.

Little Conval Circular Route

A scenic loop starting from the nearby village of Aberlour, this route offers a balanced mix of ascent and delightful views.

8 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Highland Five

Elevation

553m

1,814 ft

Prominence

165m

Coordinates

57.4381, -3.1774

NJ294392

OS Map

28

Explorer: 424S

At the Summit

At the summit, hikers are greeted by an iconic stone cairn which, if you squint hard enough, looks remarkably like a very confused penguin.

Terrain & Geology

Predominantly grassy with some rocky outcrops and occasional muddy patches. Be prepared to channel your inner goat on the steeper sections.

Consisting primarily of volcanic rock, Little Conval is a prime example of Scottish geological formation. The surrounding area features ancient granite and schist, providing a rich history of glacial activity.

Views & Scenery

Panoramic vistas of the Spey Valley and neighbouring hills, including Ben Rinnes and the rolling contours of the Cairngorms.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name Conval is believed to derive from the Gaelic 'Conbhaile', which means 'the estate or dwelling of Con', referring to its historical roots.

Historical Significance

Little Conval has been a popular hiking destination for locals and visitors alike, steeped in Scottish folklore and tradition.

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 a small public car park near the village of Aberlour, providing easy access to the trailhead.

Public Transport

Regular bus services operate to Aberlour from larger towns such as Elgin, making it feasible for those without a car.

Nearby Facilities

The village of Aberlour offers several cafes and shops, ideal for a refreshing cuppa and a bite to eat before or after your hike. Facilities also include public toilets in the village.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be aware of potential sudden weather changes, as well as slippery areas due to mud and loose rocks. Also, watch out for the occasional sheep wandering on the path!

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 Little Conval?

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

Are there other walkers around Little Conval?

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 Little Conval search or of course create your own walk for Little Conval

Can I organise a walk to Little Conval?

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 Little Conval.

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 Little Conval?

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 Little Conval 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

Little Conval location map

Grid reference: NJ294392

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.

Meikle Conval

571m

Ben Rinnes

841m

Ben Aigan

471m

Tips of Clunymore

395m

Corryhabbie Hill

781m
See 5 more nearby hills

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