NF8069 : Lochan on the upper slopes of Maireaval

Maireabhal [Marrival]

230m Elevation
222m Prominence
Scotland Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

Overview

Overview

Maireabhal, affectionately known as Marrival, stands proudly among the Scottish Highlands at 808 meters. It might not be the tallest in the region, but its charm and accessibility make it a favoured destination among hikers and nature lovers.

Geology

The mountain's granite composition is fascinating. It allows for a rugged terrain adorned with intriguing rock formations while the surrounding schist shines a spotlight on geological diversity. Remember, rocks won’t tell you their stories unless you do some serious climbing!

Access and Parking

Getting to Maireabhal is straightforward for those with a bit of determination. Start at the small car park at NF801698, just a peep down the road from Tarbert. If you fancy yourself as a bus navigator, the nearest public transport runs from Tarbert - just keep an eye on the schedules, as they're as reliable as the Scottish weather!

The Route

The Maireabhal Circular Route at 10.5 km takes you through diverse landscapes, from plush greenery to the rocky ascents that define this area. The trail is moderately challenging, so lace up those sturdy boots and get ready to stretch the legs.

Summit Features

Upon reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with a rocky outcrop and a quaint wooden cairn. Feeling the wind in your hair up there? That's Mother Nature's way of congratulating you!

Views and Experiences

The summit views are breathtaking! Marvel at the dramatic Outer Hebrides coastline and the majestic peaks of Harris. Ideally, visit in spring or autumn when the colours are a sight to behold.

Hazards

Just a heads up: the weather can change faster than a sheep can run! Keep an eye on the sky and your foot placement, as the rocky and boggy areas can lead to unexpected tumbles.

Facilities

Though Maireabhal doesn’t provide much in the way of facilities, nearby Tarbert serves up delightful cafes and amenities to fuel your adventure or clean up afterward.

History

The name Maireabhal tells tales of Celtic heritage, adding to its charm and significance in Scottish culture.

So, whether you're after a peaceful stroll or an exhilarating climb, Maireabhal welcomes all adventurers with open arms! Just remember: while we love the ruggedness, safety never goes out of style.

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Maireabhal [Marrival]

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.

Berneray Community Hall to the beautiful beach

4.8 km 1h–1h 15m Easy

View route

Dun Mhulan Broch Quick Walk

5.2 km 1h 5m–1h 20m Easy

View route

Beautiful private beach walk Isle of Harris

2 km 25 min–35 min Easy

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.

Maireabhal Circular Route

A scenic circular route that provides an immersive experience of the highlands.

10.5 km ~4.5 hours Moderate
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn 200-299m hill

Elevation

230m

755 ft

Prominence

222m

Coordinates

57.6070, -7.3456

NF808700

OS Map

18

Explorer: 454W

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a prominent rocky outcrop and a small wooden cairn, offering a splendid viewpoint for those who reach its heights.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky paths and grassy slopes with some boggy patches – an ankle-twisting adventure awaits!

Maireabhal is composed primarily of granite, with less resistant schist found in surrounding areas. The mountain's rocky frame offers a sublime insight into the geological history of the region.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can gaze upon the rugged coastline of the Outer Hebrides, the distant peaks of Harris, and the shimmering lochs in the valleys below.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Maireabhal derives from the Gaelic 'Mairi' meaning 'Mary' and 'ubal' meaning 'fruit', possibly indicative of spiritual or fertility connections.

Historical Significance

This mountain holds cultural significance within Celtic traditions, often serving as a place of gathering and reflection.

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 car park at NF801698, approximately 1.5 km from the start of the route.

Public Transport

Public transport options are limited; however, nearby Tarbert has bus services connecting from Stornoway.

Nearby Facilities

While amenities are sparse on the mountain, Tarbert provides several cafes, toilets, and shops for last-minute supplies.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be aware of sudden weather changes typical of the highlands. Slippery rocks and boggy ground can pose a risk, particularly in wet conditions.

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 Maireabhal [Marrival]?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Maireabhal [Marrival] through the maps

Are there other walkers around Maireabhal [Marrival]?

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 Maireabhal [Marrival] search or of course create your own walk for Maireabhal [Marrival]

Can I organise a walk to Maireabhal [Marrival]?

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 Maireabhal [Marrival].

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 Maireabhal [Marrival]?

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 Maireabhal [Marrival] 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

Maireabhal [Marrival] location map

Grid reference: NF808700

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.

Eabhal [Eaval]

347m

Uineabhal [Uneval]

140m

Crogearraidh Mor [Crogary Mor]

180m

Beinn Mhor

190m

Ruabhal [Rueval]

124m
See 5 more nearby hills

Privacy preferences

Necessary storage supports sign-in, security and your privacy choice. It is always on. Google Analytics, Mixpanel and Simple Analytics measure site usage only with your permission. Session recording is off. Rejecting analytics does not affect access.

Your choice lasts up to 180 days. If you accept analytics, a separate receipt records acceptance, the notice version and server time and is scheduled for deletion after 180 days. The receipt contains no account, IP address or browser details. Refusal and withdrawal stay in this browser. You can change your choice here at any time.

Read our privacy policy