Roineabhal [Roneval]
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Roineabhal [Roneval]
Roineabhal, affectionately known as Roneval, is a remarkable Marilyn located in the picturesque Scottish Highlands. Standing proudly at 498 meters, it may not be the tallest peak around, but its character and stunning vistas make it a must-visit for any hiker.
Geology
The landscape of Roineabhal is defined by its striking gneiss composition. This ancient rock type not only tells the tale of the earth's history but also creates a rugged terrain that captures the imagination.
Access
Getting to Roineabhal is a breeze! The nearest parking can be found in the quaint village of Galloway. Just a short stroll away, the trailhead welcomes you with open... well, paths! For those opting for public transport, there are buses from the charming Tarbert, though do check the schedules, especially on weekends when services can be thinner than a Highland mist.
The Route
A popular choice is the Roneval Hill Walk. This moderately challenging route offers a delightful mix of heather-covered hills and rocky scrambles, leading you through the wild beauty of the Highlands. At 7.5 km, it typically takes about 3.5 hours to complete, perfect for a half-day adventure.
Summit Features
When you finally reach the summit, take a moment to appreciate the impressive cairn and the sprawling views. It's a fine spot to catch your breath or indulge in a cheeky snack while basking in the glory of the landscape.
Views
From the summit, gaze upon the magnificent Outer Hebrides that stretch out in the distance. Try to capture that picture-perfect shot! The best seasons for consulting your photographer skills are late spring to early autumn, when visibility is at its finest and the paths are kindly devoid of the winter's muck.
Hazards
As with many a Highland adventure, keep an eye on the weather — it can shift faster than a Highlander's mood when the rugby's on! Wet rocks can be quite the frou-frou underfoot, so tread carefully, especially on those rocky sections near the summit.
Nearby Summits
For those keen to keep hiking, nearby peaks include Ben Eaval, standing at 620 meters, and Beinn Mholach at 540 meters. Both provide fantastic options for extending your trekking experience in this remote and beautiful corner of Scotland.
Conclusion
Roineabhal may not have the height of its taller neighbours, but it boasts beauty and charm in heaps. Whether you’re after stunning views, solitude in nature, or just a good leg workout, Roneval will not disappoint!
Explore routes near Roineabhal [Roneval]
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.
Dun Mhulan Broch Quick Walk
View route
Berneray Community Hall to the beautiful beach
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.
Roneval Hill Walk
A moderately challenging route that begins from the village of Galloway, ascending through heather-covered slopes.
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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NF8114 : Peat and gneiss, Ròineabhal
Richard Webb
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NF8113 : Summit plateau, Ròineabhal
Richard Webb
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NF8113 : Small lochan just below summit of Roineabhal
Roger McLachlan
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NF8113 : View south from Roineabhal
Richard Webb
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NF8114 : Triangulation pillar on Roineabhal
Roger McLachlan
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NF8114 : Slabs, Ròineabhal
Richard Webb
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NF8114 : The summit, Ròineabhal
Richard Webb
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
201m
659 ft
Prominence
152m
Coordinates
57.1068, -7.2594
NF816140
OS Map
31
Explorer: 453S
At the Summit
The summit features a large stone cairn, perfect for a quick photo op, and offers plenty of space to catch your breath and enjoy the views.
Terrain & Geology
The summit of Roineabhal is primarily composed of gneiss, providing a stunningly rugged landscape typical of the Scottish Highlands.
Views & Scenery
On a clear day, you can see the distant peaks of the Outer Hebrides and the expansive sound surrounding the islands.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
Roineabhal translates to 'Hill of the Rains' in Gaelic, which is fitting given the unpredictable weather!
Historical Significance
This hill is a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts seeking solitude and stunning views away from the more crowded Munros.
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
Parking is available at the village of Galloway, where you'll find a small car park suitable for a few vehicles.
Public Transport
Buses run from Tarbert to Galloway, with limited services on weekends.
Nearby Facilities
There are no facilities at the mountain itself, but Galloway has small cafes and shops for hikers to stock up before their trek.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Be cautious of sudden weather changes typical in the Highlands. Slippery rocks can be common when wet.
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 Roineabhal [Roneval]?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Roineabhal [Roneval] through the maps
Are there other walkers around Roineabhal [Roneval]?
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 Roineabhal [Roneval] search or of course create your own walk for Roineabhal [Roneval]
Can I organise a walk to Roineabhal [Roneval]?
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 Roineabhal [Roneval].
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 Roineabhal [Roneval]?
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 Roineabhal [Roneval] 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
Comments
Location
Grid reference: NF816140
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.
Beinn Sgritheann [Ben Scrien]
186m
Beinn Ruigh Choinnich
276m
Beinn Stac [Ben Stack]
125m
Triuirebheinn
357m
Easabhal [Easaval]
242m
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