NO5484 : Mount Battock

Mount Battock

778m Elevation
286m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NO5484 : Mount Battock

William Starkey Photo source

Explore routes near Mount Battock

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

Deeside Way

69.8 km Easy

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Route planning notes

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

West Top Route

This route begins at the car park in the valley and winds its way up the western flank of Mount Battock. It's one of the most popular routes, offering a steep but manageable ascent.

8.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Eastern Approach

Starting from the east, this route takes hikers through lush heather and provides a more gradual ascent to the summit. It’s perfect for those hoping to avoid steep scrambles.

7 km ~3 hours Easy
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Corbett Simm Historic County Top (pre-1889) Administrative County Top (1889 to 1996)

Elevation

778m

2,552 ft

Prominence

286m

Coordinates

56.9493, -2.7420

NO549844

OS Map

44

Explorer: OL54 395

At the Summit

The summit boasts a large stone cairn and a trig point, perfect for those triumphant selfies. There's also a weather station offering proof that the weather does indeed change up here!

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with rocky outcrops the terrain may become boggy in places after rainfall. Proper footwear is highly recommended.

The mountain is primarily composed of granite, indicative of the region's geological history that dates back to the Caledonian Orogeny. The rock formations provide insight into the ancient tectonic activity of the area.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Grampian range, the rolling hills of Aberdeenshire, and if you're lucky, you might even spot Loch Lee in the distance.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Battock' is derived from the Gaelic term for 'hill', which is somewhat ironic given how many people seem to find it a bit of a trek!

Historical Significance

Mount Battock is notable not only as a Munro but also for its historical shepherding routes and significance to the local wildlife, including red deer and golden eagles.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small layby at the start of the West Top route. Space limited – arrive early to nab a spot!

Public Transport

The nearest bus stop is located in the village of Strachan, approximately 7km from the trailhead. A friendly taxi service also operates in the area.

Nearby Facilities

While climbing Mount Battock, there are limited facilities directly on the mountain itself. However, the nearby town of Banchory has cafes, restaurants, and public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Weather can change rapidly, bringing rain, snow, or high winds. Be prepared with appropriate clothing and equipment. The rocky paths can also be slippery, especially 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 Mount Battock?

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

Are there other walkers around Mount Battock?

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 Mount Battock search or of course create your own walk for Mount Battock

Can I organise a walk to Mount Battock?

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 Mount Battock.

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 Mount Battock?

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 Mount Battock 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

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NO549844

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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