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WALK 1.5

Beinn na Caillich

Start/Finish	Continues from Walk 1.4 (Sgurr na Coinnich)
Additional distance	2km (1¼ miles)
Additional total ascent	320m (1050ft)

Said to be named after Grainnhe, wife of Fionn, chief of the Fiennes, Beinn na Caillich has rather more shape to it than its sibling, Sgurr na Coinnich, and is both a worthy companion and a logical extension of the marginally higher summit. It lies 1km (½ mile) north-east of Sgurr na Coinnich across much the same awkward terrain.

Beneath Grainnhe’s grave on the summit of the hill is reputed to lie a large crock filled with gold and jewels, for so great a lady was she that at her burial every man of the Fiennes cast their rarest jewels into an earthenware crock to do her honour.

Between the two summits, the Bealach nam Mulachag necessitates a descent and re-ascent in the order of 160m (525 feet), which needs repeating if you are returning to Bealach Udal. Although Beinn na Caillich is predominantly rocky, sufficient oases of grass appear to ease progress, best achieved in a north-east direction from the bealach. Take care on the return not to be drawn towards the hill’s steep western face, which can be confusing in misty conditions.

The summit has unrivalled views of the hustle and bustle at Kyleakin and the Kyle of Lochalsh, and the new road bridge that links the Plock of Kyle, Eilean Bàn and Skye, above which it maintains a respectable distance. Walkers retreating to Kylerhea should return to Bealach nam Mulachag, and then strike south-east over Beinn Bhuidhe. Those heading for Bealach Udal should simply retrace their steps.