Marilyn · Cairngorms
The Bochel
A 491m hill near Tomintoul in the eastern Highlands with at least 150m of prominence — enough to feel like a real summit rather than a shoulder. The modest height belies the quality of the walking.
Quick facts
- Height
- 491.2m/ 1611ft
- Difficulty
- 1 / 5Easy
- Grid ref
- NJ 23251 23248
Download GPX route file
Standard route
Standard route
A steady ascent through Caledonian pine forest before breaking onto the open hillside to the 491m summit. The walking is straightforward with clear views opening up as you gain height. Allow 2-4 hours.
Terrain
Mixed pine forest and heather moorland. The granite base provides good drainage but the terrain is rough in places.
In winter
The Cairngorms fringe sees genuine winter conditions. Snow lingers well into spring on north-facing slopes. Navigation in cloud requires compass skills.
This hill is in the Northern Cairngorms SAIS forecast area. Check SAIS forecasts in winter (December–April).
Best time of year
Getting there
- Glasgow4h 29m
- Edinburgh3h 29m
OS maps: OS Landranger 36, OS Explorer 062W, OS Explorer 420W
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 05:22
- Sunset
- 20:58
- Civil dawn
- 04:35
- Civil dusk
- 21:46
NOAA Solar Calculator · 2 May 2026