Marilyn · North-West Highlands
Beinn Dubhain
The name means 'peak' in Gaelic. At 417m 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
- 417m/ 1368ft
- Difficulty
- 1 / 5Easy
- Grid ref
- NC 93682 20704
Download GPX route file
Standard route
Standard route
A steady ascent via rough paths through the emptiest landscape in mainland Britain to the 417m 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
Northwest Highland winters are dominated by wind rather than deep snow. The maritime climate brings frequent freeze-thaw. Navigation in low cloud is the primary challenge.
This hill is in the Torridon SAIS forecast area. Check SAIS forecasts in winter (December–April).
Best time of year
Getting there
- Glasgow6h 4m
- Edinburgh6h 57m
OS maps: OS Landranger 17, OS Explorer 444W
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 05:20
- Sunset
- 21:04
- Civil dawn
- 04:31
- Civil dusk
- 21:53
NOAA Solar Calculator · 2 May 2026