Quinag - Sail Gharbh
Good walks are even better shared.
NC2029 : View from the Trig at Sail Gharbh
Dave Thompson Photo source
Explore routes near Quinag - Sail Gharbh
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Quinag - Classic Circuit via Sail Gharbh
This is the most popular route to explore Quinag, a stunning mountain with three main summits. Starting from the car park at NC233274, follow the well-defined path heading northwest. Ascend Sail Gharbh first, the northernmost peak, enjoying panoramic views over Assynt's lochs and peaks. Continue along the ridge to Sail Ghorm before returning via Spidean Coinich. The route provides a complete experience of Quinag's rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas.
Sail Gharbh Direct Ascent
This route focuses solely on Sail Gharbh, ideal for those looking for a shorter outing. Start at the same car park at NC233274 and follow the path heading northwest. After reaching the bealach between Sail Gharbh and Sail Ghorm, turn right and ascend the steep, rocky slope to the summit of Sail Gharbh. This route offers a more accessible yet rewarding way to experience Quinag's northernmost summit.
Quinag - Western Traverse via Sail Gharbh
For a unique perspective, take the western traverse of Quinag. Begin at the main car park and ascend Sail Gharbh first via the standard path. From the summit, descend westward to explore the less-traveled slopes and ridges of the mountain. This route is more strenuous with some off-path navigation but offers solitude and a different angle on Quinag's dramatic landscape.
Quinag - Sail Gharbh and Lochan Exploration
This route combines a climb of Sail Gharbh with an exploration of the beautiful lochans around Quinag. Starting at NC233274, follow the main path to the bealach and ascend Sail Gharbh. After descending, take a detour to explore the lochans to the east of the ridge, which offer stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks. Return to the car park via the same route.
Quinag - Full Traverse (Three Peaks)
A challenging and rewarding full traverse of Quinag's three summits: Sail Gharbh, Sail Ghorm, and Spidean Coinich. Starting at the Quinag car park, head northwest to Sail Gharbh, then follow the ridge southwards over Sail Ghorm and finally Spidean Coinich. This route offers the most comprehensive experience of Quinag, showcasing its incredible geology and views in all directions.
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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NC2029 : View from the Trig at Sail Gharbh
Dave Thompson
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NC2029 : Quinag - Sail Gharbh (with Suilven in distance)
John Earnshaw
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NC2129 : Boulder field, Sail Gharbh
Chris Eilbeck
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NC2029 : Sail Gharbh summit
David Brown
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NC2029 : Trig point and shelter at summit of Sàil Gharbh
Trevor Littlewood
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NC2029 : The summit of Sail Gharbh, Quinag
Colin Park
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NC2029 : Quinag
Anne Burgess
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NC2029 : The north eastern spur from the summit of Sail Gharbh, Quinag
Colin Park
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NC2029 : Sàil Gharbh
Anne Burgess
NC2029 : Sail Garbh summit
Gordon Hatton
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
809m
2,654 ft
Prominence
550m
Coordinates
58.2152, -5.0499
NC209292
OS Map
15
Explorer: 442E
At the Summit
The summit is marked by a prominent cairn and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.
Terrain & Geology
Quinag is primarily composed of quartzite and schist, with some interesting formations of conglomerate that have formed over millennia, giving rise to its rugged character.
Views & Scenery
Stunning panoramic views of the Assynt mountains, Loch Assynt, and even glimpses of the distant Summer Isles.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Quinag' is derived from the Old Norse 'Kvinang', meaning 'the mountain of the women', a nod to the area’s rich Norse history.
Historical Significance
Quinag is known for its unique geology and biodiversity, attracting naturalists and geologists alike.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
Inchnadamph car park offers ample space and is well signposted from the main road.
Public Transport
Limited bus services run from Ullapool to Inchnadamph, especially during the summer months.
Nearby Facilities
Inchnadamph hosts a small hotel and cafe, providing much-needed refreshments after your adventure. Public toilets are available near the parking area.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Be wary of changing weather conditions, as they can turn from sunny to drizzly quicker than you can say 'Scottish summer'.
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 Quinag - Sail Gharbh?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Quinag - Sail Gharbh through the maps
Are there other walkers around Quinag - Sail Gharbh?
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 Quinag - Sail Gharbh search or of course create your own walk for Quinag - Sail Gharbh
Can I organise a walk to Quinag - Sail Gharbh?
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 Quinag - Sail Gharbh.
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 Quinag - Sail Gharbh?
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 Quinag - Sail Gharbh 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
Community Discussion
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Location
Grid reference: NC209292
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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