NM9078 : Meall a' Bhainne

Meall a' Bhainne

559m Elevation
204m Prominence
Scotland Country
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Overview

Meall a' Bhainne

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Meall a' Bhainne stands proudly at an elevation of 936 meters. Known as a Munro, this peak is a favourite among hikers seeking both beauty and challenge.

Geology

The geology of Meall a' Bhainne is fascinating. Predominantly granite and schist, the mountain showcases unique rock formations shaped during the last Ice Age. As you trek upward, take a moment to appreciate the tussocks of heather and the rugged boulders that dot the landscape.

Routes

Two popular routes beckon hikers:

  • Glen Dochart Route: At 12.5 km, this route is moderate, making it perfect for casual hikers. Expect idyllic views and an accessible path.
  • Inverlochlarig Route: Slightly more challenging at 10.2 km, this route takes you on an exhilarating climb through heather and rocky outcrops.

Summit Features

The summit features a quaint cairn. After reaching the top, it’s the perfect spot for a wee break and stunning photos to share with family and friends—back home, they'll even think you’re an alpine expert!

Terrain

Expect grassy slopes with rocky interruptions and a few boggy areas that might attempt to claim your boots. Proper footwear is a must!

Views

On clear days, the views from the summit are nothing short of breathtaking. You'll see Loch Awe, the distant peaks of Ben More, and Stob Binnein on the horizon. Late spring and early autumn are the best seasons to enjoy these vistas, where nature really puts on a show.

Hazards

Be mindful of sudden weather changes. The Scottish Highlands are known for their unpredictability—what starts as sunshine can quickly turn into a drenching! Slippery rocks and boggy patches also lurk along your path, so tread with caution.

Nearby Summits

Don’t miss out on nearby peaks like Ben More at 1174 meters and Stob Binnein at 1165 meters, they could make for a fantastic day out!

Access

You can find parking at Glen Dochart, ideal if you’re driving. Public transport can get you to Crianlarich, and from there, the hike begins into Munro territory.

Facilities

Crianlarich, the nearest village, has cafes and public toilets, ensuring your needs are taken care of.

History

The name Meall a' Bhainne translates to 'Hill of the Milk', possibly reflecting the verdant pastures surrounding the area. This mountain enjoys a spot in the annals of Scottish hiking history, drawing many each year.

Meall a' Bhainne offers a memorable hiking experience set against a backdrop of rugged beauty, so grab your gear and set out for an adventure you won’t soon forget!

Explore routes near Meall a' Bhainne

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.

Banavie to Glen Loy Aqueduct: Neptune’s Staircase Canal Towpath

13.3 km 2h 45m–3h 25m Easy

View route

Ben Nevis via Mountain Path

15.6 km 5h 15m–7h 50m Hard

View route

Loch Affric full circuit from River Affric

17.5 km 4h 25m–5h 50m Moderate

View route

Fort Augustus to Kytra Lock: Caledonian Canal Towpath

8.2 km 1h 40m–2h 5m 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.

Glen Dochart Route

A well-trodden path that starts from Glen Dochart, providing a manageable ascent with stunning views along the way.

12.5 km ~5 hours Moderate

Inverlochlarig Route

This route commences from Inverlochlarig and includes an exhilarating climb through heather and rocky outcrops.

10.2 km ~4.5 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Highland Five

Elevation

559m

1,834 ft

Prominence

204m

Coordinates

56.8505, -5.4430

NM901785

OS Map

40

Explorer: 391

At the Summit

At the summit, you'll find a modest cairn marking the highest point, providing a perfect spot for a well-deserved rest and some epic selfies.

Terrain & Geology

Predominantly grassy with rocky sections with some boggy patches in the lower slopes that may test your waterproof hiking boots.

Primarily composed of granite and schist, the area features spectacular rock formations and boulder fields, showcasing the geological beauty formed during the last Ice Age.

Views & Scenery

On a clear day, you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding valleys, Loch Awe, and the distant peaks of Ben More and Stob Binnian.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Meall a' Bhainne translates from Gaelic as 'Hill of the Milk', possibly referencing the fertile lands surrounding the area.

Historical Significance

The mountain is a popular hiking destination among enthusiasts and forms part of the scenic Munro challenge in Scotland.

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 parking area at the start of the Glen Dochart route, which provides ample space for several cars. Please ensure you park considerately.

Public Transport

The nearest bus service connects to the village of Crianlarich, from where it's a further hike to the start of your chosen route.

Nearby Facilities

While there are no facilities directly on the mountain, Crianlarich offers cafes, shops, and public toilets for your convenience.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Exposure to sudden weather changes, slippery rocks, and boggy areas can present risks. Ensure you carry a map and compass to avoid wandering off track.

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 Meall a' Bhainne?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Meall a' Bhainne through the maps

Are there other walkers around Meall a' Bhainne?

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 Meall a' Bhainne search or of course create your own walk for Meall a' Bhainne

Can I organise a walk to Meall a' Bhainne?

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 Meall a' Bhainne.

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 Meall a' Bhainne?

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 Meall a' Bhainne 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

Meall a' Bhainne location map

Grid reference: NM901785

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.

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Beinn a' Bheithir - Sgorr Dhonuill

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See 5 more nearby hills

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