Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean
Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean, standing proudly at 779 meters, is a prominent Munro in the stunning Scottish Highlands. This mountain promises not only a rewarding ascent but also breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Geology
The mountain features an intriguing mixture of metamorphosed psammites, rugged rocks that have stood the test of time. As you tread upon them, contemplate their journey through earth’s geological history—well, maybe not too hard as you might trip over a loose one!
Routes
The East Ridge Route is a favourite among hikers. This moderate trail spans 8.0 km and usually takes around 4.5 hours to complete. It meanders gracefully up the eastern ridge, treating climbers to stunning sights of the lush glens below. Don’t forget your camera; the views are certainly Instagram-worthy!
Summit Features
The summit greets adventurers with a modest stone cairn, the traditional marker of accomplishment. It’s a perfect spot for selfies, especially with a thermos of tea in hand for that quintessential Scottish touch!
Terrain Type
Expect a diverse terrain comprising rocky outcrops, grassy slopes, and a dash of marshy sections—most often encountered lower down. Make sure your boots can handle a bit of squelching!
Views
From the heights of Meallan Odhar, vistas of Loch Ness and the Great Glen unfold beneath you, showcasing the sheer beauty of the Highlands. The best times for these expansive views are during late spring and early autumn, preferably while you’re not being chased by midges!
Hazards
As always, be aware of the loose rocks that can trip up the unwary foot. In misty conditions, navigation could become challenging, and those steep edges can seem a bit more inviting than they ought to!
Nearby Summits
For the ambitious, Meallan Odhar is flanked by nearby heights: Beinn Teallach (830 m) and Meall Fuar-mhonaidh (772 m), both offering further hiking adventures.
Access
The nearest parking can be found at the end of a minor road south of Glen Urquhart, ideal for about a dozen cars—so get there early if you want a spot! Alternatively, buses run from Inverness to Drumnadrochit, offering a lovely pre-hike meander before tackling the ascent.
Facilities
In Drumnadrochit, you’ll find all the facilities you need: cafes to fuel up, toilets to refresh, and local shops for any last-minute provisions.
History
The name itself, translating to ‘The Brown Hill of the Grove of the Young Men’, mirrors the rich tapestry of Highland folklore found in the region. This area has been a silent witness to the tumultuous history of local clans, making it not only a hike but a journey into Scotland's past.
So grab your gear, lace up those boots, and set forth on your adventure at Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean—where scenery, history, and a good dose of challenge await!
Explore routes near Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean
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.
Loch Affric full circuit from River Affric
View route
Glen Affric: Coire Loch Woodland Trail
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Beinn Eighe Lancaster Wreckage at Coire Mhic Fhearchair
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Fort Augustus to Kytra Lock: Caledonian Canal Towpath
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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.
East Ridge Route
A popular and scenic ascent that gradually rises along the eastern ridge, offering panoramic views as you climb.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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NH1537 : Summit area of Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean
Trevor Littlewood
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NH1537 : Meallan Odhar Doire nan Gillean
Richard Webb
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
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
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
Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.
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.
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The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
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Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid reference: NH156377
View on OpenStreetMapOpens 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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