The Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve is located in Torridon and is a fantastic place to go for a walk. The reserve covers an area of 3,351 hectares and is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Scotland. In this article, we will provide a detailed walking guide for Beinn Eighe, so that you can make the most of your visit! This is in our opinion the best Torridon walk to do.
Beinn Eighe general information
To explore the breathtaking Beinn Eighe hike, you have two distinct options, both of which are highlighted on the map below. We chose the one-way walk to the lake as part of our North Coast 500 road trip, and although we did not complete the entire loop, the journey was still well worth it. We were captivated by the awe-inspiring views of bright blue mountain lakes and soaring peaks that dotted the landscape. Teeming with wildlife and nature’s beauty, Beinn Eighe is an unforgettable experience for any adventure-seeker.
But before we get into details here are some quick facts about the two hikes.
Beinn Eighe one-way walk: 15.5 km / 9.63 miles | 695m elevation | 5 hours
Beinn Eighe loop: 18.2 km / 11.3 miles | 1,269m elevation | 8-9 hours
We will guide you through the one-way walk, but it’s worth noting that should you wish to complete the Beinn Eighe loop, all you have to do is follow the path. There’s no need to worry about getting lost; with the help of our illustrated map so you can not go wrong :).
Beinn Eighe walk details
Starting your Torridon walk at the Beinn Eighe car park is a great way to begin your adventure.
The one-way walk is relatively simple; just follow the trail and turn right when you reach a t-junction to get to the lake. It is that simple!
For those doing the loop, you should do this counterclockwise for the best views of the landscape. First, you will need to walk along the road until you reach a small parking lot where you should turn left following the path. When walking over the back of the mountain, take a right turn towards Beinn Eighe and then make your way down to the lake and finally back down to your starting point.
Hiking in Torridon solo or with a guide
When it comes to the Torridon walks, no guide is required—even if you’re not accustomed to hiking in mountainous terrain. With the right supplies and a detailed map in hand, there’s no need to hire a tour guide.
How difficult is the Beinn Eighe walk
The Beinn Eighe walk is a rewarding challenge, suitable for hikers of all skill levels. For experienced mountaineers, you have to do the whole loop. If you have less hiking experience, you have to do the one-way round. The difference is that you have to climb less altitude.
We did the one-way walk because we combined it with our North Coast 500 trip. If you like hiking, you should do it too. If you have more time you can try to do the whole loop.
Where do you stay after the Beinn Eighe walk?
After the hike, we recommend staying in Torridon (or the area). To ensure your stay, it’s imperative to book accommodation in advance as there are limited options available.
When you travel by car we recommend you are most likely to stay at Torridon Youth Hostel, as they have more rooms. If you’re looking for a cost-effective stay, this is the perfect place to be! When the hostel is fully booked you can try to stay at Torridon Estate. Here you can stay in one of the nine cottages located on the estate. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery around you. Not only are the views breathtaking, but the facilities and services are great.
When traveling with a motorhome you can stay for free near Attadale in a parking lot along the road because we were not going to do the Appelcrose Road. If you want to do the Appelcrose Road you have to stay close to Shieldaig.
Which Torridon walks can you do more?
Torridon offers a variety of treks, from steep mountain climbs to leisurely strolls along the shoreline. The Beinn Eighe walk is an excellent choice for those seeking a challenging hike in the Scottish Highlands, while the Applecross Circuit promises some amazing views and easy-to-follow trails. For a truly unique experience, the White Horse Ridge Walk is perfect for those looking to take in breathtaking scenery without needing to climb steep hills or navigate tricky terrain. No matter which path you choose, they are all great hikes!
Tip: if you want you can visit Beinn Eighe Visitor Centre to ask for information about the different walks you can do in the area. Beinn Eighe Visitor Centre is located close to the village of Kinlochewe.
What to bring when doing the Beinn Eighe walk?
If you’re planning a hike on the Beinn Eighe walk, it’s important to come prepared with the right supplies. First and foremost, make sure to wear sturdy boots and comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather. You should also bring plenty of water, snacks, and a map or guidebook to help you along your way. Additionally, consider packing a first aid kit with basic medical supplies in case of an emergency. A compass or GPS device can also be useful for finding your way if you get lost. Finally, if it’s chilly outside don’t forget to pack an extra layer of clothing!
Tip: download our map on your google account and use it when start hiking.
Best time to do Torridon walks?
The best time to embark on a walk through the Torridon area is between April and September when you can expect warm and sunny days. This time of year also allows for the most hours of daylight and longer evenings which makes it easier to complete the more challenging treks. However, if you’re looking for something truly spectacular, then late spring or early autumn will be your best bet as these months are known for their beautiful wildflowers, deep reds and oranges in the landscape, and breathtaking sunsets.
Travel Insurance
When you’re planning a hiking trip, it’s important to make sure you have the right travel insurance in place. Travel insurance is there to provide protection against any unexpected events or injuries while you’re away, such as an accident on the mountain or illness while abroad. Without travel insurance, you could be left with expensive medical costs.
For reliable and affordable travel insurance coverage, WorldNomads is a great option. They offer comprehensive packages to suit all types of travelers, including backpackers and adventurers who are looking for extra coverage specifically tailored to their needs.
What to do after the walk? Go exploring Scotland!
We completed the Beinn Eighe walk as part of our North Coast 500 journey and we can honestly say it was an experience like no other. The stunning views and breathtaking landscapes were some of the highlights of our trip. If you’re planning your own North Coast 500, make sure to check out our 5 day North Coast 500 itinerary guide for all the information you need to make your journey just as memorable as ours.
In addition to the North Coast 500, we have many more articles about Scotland that are useful to read. A few of these are:
- How much budget do you need for Scotland: explains per type of traveler how much budget you need.
- 3 Week itinerary Scotland: we traveled for 3 weeks through Scotland and are happy to share our itinerary to help make your own itinerary.
- Scotland travel guide: guide about Scotland that gives general travel information about Scotland.
