Spidean Coire nan Clach, (Beinn Eighe)

Beinn Eighe is a mountain which is equal in size and stature to Liathach, but very different in appearance. Whereas Liathach is a typical Torridonian mountain of dark sandstone, Beinn Eighe is notable for its ridges and corries of white quartzite. It is a mountain of seven summits, with long curving ridges between them. On the Glen Torridon side, the slopes which sweep down from the summit ridge are covered with quartzite screes, while on the other side of the mountain are four wild and remote corries, Coire Mhic Fhearchair being outstanding for the architecture of its great Triple Buttresses.

Both Beinn Eighe's Munros can be climbed in a good long traverse, starting from the A896 road in Glen Torridon. Set out either from the carpark at the foot of the Coire Dubh Mor path and climb north up Coire nan Clach, or from the small wood 2 kilometres up the glen and follow the path up into Coire an Laoigh. Both routes lead to the main ridge close to Spidean Coire nan Clach. Traverse the main ridge of Beinn Eighe westwards for just over 1½ kilometres to a junction of ridges and go north, down to a col at first, to reach Ruadh-stac Mor. The return may be made by reversing the outward route, or by descending from the last col into Coire Mhic Fhearchair and following the path round the west end of Beinn Eighe to reach the Coire Dubh Mor track and Glen Torridon.

(Copyright The Scottish Mountaineering Club)