NH1537 : Summit area of Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean

Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean

599m Elevation
177m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NH1537 : Summit area of Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean

Trevor Littlewood Photo source

Explore routes near Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Glen Affric: Coire Loch Woodland Trail

4.6 km ~2h Hard

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Beinn Eighe Lancaster Wreckage at Coire Mhic Fhearchair

16 km ~6h Hard

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Fort Augustus to Kytra Lock: Caledonian Canal Towpath

8.2 km ~2h 30m Easy

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Fairy Lochs Liberator Wreckage Circuit

4.9 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

East Ridge Route

A popular and scenic ascent that gradually rises along the eastern ridge, offering panoramic views as you climb.

8 km ~4.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Highland Five

Elevation

599m

1,965 ft

Prominence

177m

Coordinates

57.3929, -5.0697

NH156377

OS Map

25

Explorer: 430

At the Summit

The summit is crowned with a small stone cairn, a humble yet encouraged spot for a well-deserved photo op and a snack break, should you have remembered to pack your flask of tea.

Terrain & Geology

A mixture of rocky outcrops grassy slopes and marshy sections particularly lower down in the glen.

The mountain primarily consists of metamorphosed sedimentary rocks known as psammites. These stones are resilient, providing a solid footing for intrepid hikers, although they do require a bit of scrambling in places.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can catch a glimpse of Loch Ness and the distant peaks of the Great Glen, arguably rivalled only by the Highland cows roaming below.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean' translates to 'The Brown Hill of the Grove of the Young Men.'

Historical Significance

This area is steeped in folklore, with tales of local clans frequenting the hills during historic conflicts. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the Highlanders.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking lot is located at the end of the minor road, just south of Glen Urquhart. It accommodates about a dozen cars, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Public Transport

The closest public transport routes are available via bus services from Inverness to Drumnadrochit, followed by a longer walk to the trailhead.

Nearby Facilities

Cafes and toilets can be found in Drumnadrochit, along with several local shops to stock up on hiking essentials.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks in places can make footing uncertain, especially in wet conditions. Care should also be taken near steep edges.

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 Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean through the maps

Are there other walkers around Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean?

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 Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean search or of course create your own walk for Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean

Can I organise a walk to Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean?

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 Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean.

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 Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean?

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 Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

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Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NH156377

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