Marilyn · North-West Highlands
Beinn a' Mhadaidh
The name means 'peak' in Gaelic. At 403m in the far northeast near Helmsdale, this is the kind of hill that experienced walkers love — not famous, not crowded, but a proper summit with proper views.
Gaelic: “mountain, peak” · Pronunciation: bine
Quick facts
- Height
- 403.1m/ 1322ft
- Difficulty
- 1 / 5Easy
- Grid ref
- NC 76898 41490
Download GPX route file
Standard route
Standard route
A steady ascent via rough paths through the emptiest landscape in mainland Britain to the 403m summit. The walking is straightforward with clear views opening up as you gain height. Allow 2-4 hours.
Terrain
Quartzite scree, peat hags and rough moorland. The northwest Highland landscape is geologically unique and physically demanding.
In winter
Winter in the northwest is characterised by wind, rain and occasional snow. The remoteness adds an extra dimension of seriousness to winter outings.
This hill is in the Torridon SAIS forecast area. Check SAIS forecasts in winter (December–April).
Best time of year
Getting there
- Glasgow6h 26m
- Edinburgh7h 38m
OS maps: OS Landranger 10, OS Explorer 448S
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 05:21
- Sunset
- 21:06
- Civil dawn
- 04:31
- Civil dusk
- 21:56
NOAA Solar Calculator · 2 May 2026