Torridonian Highlands

Scottish mountain region of Torridonian sandstone peaks, moorland lochs, and long ridge walks.

The mountains of Torridonian sandstone are possibly the only mainland mountains that can compete in beauty with the Cuillin of Skye. The peaks in the immediate area of Loch Torridon are large and provide walks along their numerous tops — Liathach, Beinn Alligin, and Beinn Eighe among them, with the splendid ridge of An Teallach further south.

North of Ullapool, the Torridonian landscape changes dramatically but loses nothing. The mountains are not as high and appear as isolated, sculpted peaks rising from a moorland of tiny lakes — Stac Pollaidh (overwalked because of its proximity to the road), Cul Mor, Cul Beag, Canisp, Suilven (almost an expedition in itself), and the much underrated Quinag. From most of these summits the view takes in hundreds of lochs and the other peaks in every direction.

Guide

Things to do

Although this area encompasses some of the finest ranges on the Scottish mainland, it would be a sad mistake to believe there is nothing here for those with vertigo. There are delightful walks of all standards for those able to go uphill at all.

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Some easier walks

The following website may be useful to those who don't fancy the mighty stuff.

url: website.lineone.net

Quinag

This is about the most northerly of the mountains of Torridonian sandstone and it is shaped like a Y and thus fairly noticeable. it's possible to start high up on the road for the stalk of the Y and to follow both arms in a reasonably timed walk. The views from here of both Torridonian and other peaks are splendid and immensely memorable.

url: www.walkingbritain.co.uk

Beinn Eighe

As you go from Torridon [Fasaig] village towards Kinlochewe by car, postbus or foot, you have the bulk of the Liathach t your left. It will be clear when you leave it for the start of the Beinn Eighe range and you will find a carpark just above this and the start of a track between the two mountains.Follow it and, just after the col between the mountain, take the right fork to the corrie of Coire Mhic Fhearchair which is the only potential challenger to Coire Toll an Lochan on An Teallach to the title of Mainland Best. It is worth walking here even if the further ascent is beyond you. In this case consider going back and following the other part of the path right round Liathach until you reach the Alligin car park.

An Teallach

This is an impressive and beautiful ridge walk, with excellent chances of seeing golden eagles, deer or ptarmigan - but not one for anybody who is unfit and/or without a good head for heights. Start at Dundonell, where you can note the pub. You will deserve a drink there when you return! Take the track to Coire Toll an Lochain — this is one of the best corries on the mainland and the walk this far is suitable for anyone who is fit. Going further onto the ridge proper requires scrambling skills and a head for heights; the full traverse is a long day out.