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Bothy

Suileag

A well-maintained bothy near Inchnadamph in Assynt. The approach is straightforward and the setting beneath Canisp and Suilven is magnificent. The bothy gives the best basecamp for Suilven; a good track, clean interior and an iconic mountain on the doorstep.

Quick facts

Walk-in
5 km· 1.3 hrs
Sleeps
4
Altitude
200m
Condition
Good condition
Grid ref
NC149212
Maintained by
Mountain Bothies Association
Fireplace
Yes
Water
Burn from Coire nan Con draining from Glencanisp above; stream running past bothy.
Mobile signal
No signal. Assynt interior — no mobile coverage.
Dogs
Dogs on lead on approachLivestock on approach

Our take

Suileag is the Suilven basecamp. Walk in, sleep, and climb Suilven the next morning in the still of first light rather than the middle of the day. The mountain is better experienced slowly. It's a low, comfortable bothy with Suilven filling the view, and a fair base for Canisp and Cul Mor too if the weather holds. Standard bothy code applies — it's first-come so it may be full (carry a tent as backup), keep parties small, and take everything out with you.

Getting there

From the A837 at Inchnadamph, follow the path northwest. Allow 1–1.5 hours on good paths. The path from Glencanisp Lodge follows the River Inver, crosses a footbridge, then runs northwest on a firm track to the bothy.

Nearest parking: A837 at Inchnadamph

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Stalking season / estate access

Glencanisp/Assynt Estate. Stalking September–October.

What to expect inside

MBA bothy in good condition with an open fireplace and space for around four. Popular with Suilven and Canisp walkers. Two rooms, each with a raised sleeping platform, a stone floor, and a porch for boots. Bring your own fuel — there is no natural wood nearby. Clean and well-maintained by the MBA.

When to visit

Accessible year-round due to the good approach. Suilven is a winter challenge despite its modest height — the terrain is rough and exposed. Year-round access on a good track; Suilven holds snow on north-facing slopes into spring. Midges in July are noticeable but moderate.

Wildfire risk — May to October

Dry conditions increase wildfire risk during summer. Never light fires in the open. Use the bothy fireplace only, and ensure it is fully out before you leave.

Current conditions

Condition unverified

We have not received a recent visitor report for this bothy. Check the MBA bothy register for current status before relying on this bothy as shelter.

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Daylight Today

18h 28mwalking daylight
Sunrise
05:08
Sunset
21:46
Civil dawn
04:13
Civil dusk
22:41

NOAA Solar Calculator · 30 July 2026

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Stayed at Suileag? Help other walkers plan their visit.

Stock up at Lochinver

Nearest TripSCOT town for food, fuel, and accommodation if the bothy is busy.

Suileag — common questions

How far is the walk into Suileag?
Allow about 1.3 hours for the 5km approach from A837 at Inchnadamph. From the A837 at Inchnadamph, follow the path northwest.
Is there a fire at Suileag?
Yes — Suileag has a working fireplace. Bring your own firewood; natural wood at most Scottish bothies is scarce, and burning bothy furniture or boundary posts is not acceptable.
How many sleeping spaces does Suileag have?
4 sleeping spaces — but bothies operate first-come-first-served and you may share with strangers. On busy weekends parties often pitch a tent outside if the bothy is full.
Is there a water source near Suileag?
Burn from Coire nan Con draining from Glencanisp above; stream running past bothy.
When's the best time to visit Suileag?
May, June, July, August, September are the months to aim for. During the stalking season (August-October), contact the estate before visiting.

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