Marilyn · Argyll
Cruach Scarba
Cruach Scarba, at 450m, is the high point of the small uninhabited island of Scarba, north of Jura across the famous Corryvreckan tidal race. The summit gives one of the most dramatic seaward views in Scotland — open ocean, islands, and the whirlpool itself below.
Quick facts
- Height
- 450m/ 1476ft
- Prominence
- 450 m
- Grid ref
- NM 69071 04457
- Nearest city
- Oban· 31km
- Dogs
- Dogs on lead required near livestockDog-friendly guide ↗
Height and prominence cross-checked against the Database of British and Irish Hills (CC BY).
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Standard route
heather and bog 55% · rocky slopes 30% · grass slopes 15%
Access requires a private boat charter or kayak crossing — there is no scheduled ferry to Scarba. Once landed, expect a steep pull through bracken and heather to gain the ridge. Total time on land 4-5 hours.
Terrain
Bracken and gorse near the coast give way to steep heather and grass slopes. Some rocky outcrops near the summit but no scrambling.
In winter
Boat access in winter is unreliable due to swell and weather. Best confined to spring through autumn when sea conditions are settled.
Best time of year
Getting there
- Glasgow4h 54m
- Edinburgh7h 35m
OS maps: OS Landranger 55, OS Explorer 355N
Mobile signal: Poor. Remote Scarba island; very limited coverage.
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 05:22
- Sunset
- 21:37
- Civil dawn
- 04:32
- Civil dusk
- 22:27
NOAA Solar Calculator · 30 July 2026
Around Cruach Scarba on the SCOT network
Getting there, basing yourself, and what to do off the hill.
Cruach Scarba — common questions
- How hard is Cruach Scarba?
- We grade Cruach Scarba at 1/5, which puts it in easy territory. Ground conditions: Bracken and gorse near the coast give way to steep heather and grass slopes.
- How much drop does Cruach Scarba have?
- Cruach Scarba's prominence is its full height — 450m — because it is the highest point of its landmass, with no higher ground connected to it. Passing the 150m-drop threshold on all sides is exactly what makes it a Marilyn.
- What's the best month to climb Cruach Scarba?
- Aim for March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October on Cruach Scarba. In the remaining months treat it as a winter hill — full kit, solid navigation, and a look at the relevant SAIS avalanche forecast before you go.
- Can dogs go up Cruach Scarba?
- Dogs are fine on a lead. The route passes livestock or ground-nesting bird habitat, so keep them close throughout.
- Will I get phone signal on Cruach Scarba?
- Poor. Remote Scarba island; very limited coverage.
- Is Cruach Scarba safe in winter?
- Boat access in winter is unreliable due to swell and weather. Best confined to spring through autumn when sea conditions are settled.
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