Binnein Shuas and Binnein Shios

Binnein Shuas from the bridge over the River Spean

Around 22km east of Spean Bridge, a long lay-by on the A86 marks the start of the route, just where Loch Laggan gives way to its reservoir.

The route begins from a long lay-by by the entrance to Luiblea.

Although there is plenty of space in the lay-by, this is a popular hillwalking area — particularly for the Beinn a’ Chlachair group of Munros — so it can fill early on. Additional parking is available about 300m west of the track entrance.

Approaching the first of the crags on Binnein Shaus's crest

From the lay-by, follow the estate track over the River Spean to a junction and turn left. A new, imposing gate fitted with cameras and keypads now guards the entrance, but there’s a side gate for walkers and cyclists. Pass through and follow the track for around 1km to a junction above an area of forestry, where the track is left behind.

Cross rough, undulating ground of bog myrtle, thick grass and heather, often damp underfoot, aiming eastwards for the south-western shoulder of Binnein Shuas. The climb is straightforward but steady, with occasional crags high up that are easily avoided, generally on the right. As height is gained a faint path develops, becoming more distinct for the final 150m or so to Binnein Shuas's summit .

On the summit of Binnein Shuas, looking north-east to Binnein Shios

On the summit of Binnein Shuas, looking north-east to Binnein Shios

Nearing the bealach between the two hills, grass rather like stunted bamboo

From the summit of Binnein Shuas, retrace the route south-west for about 500m, then turn north, descending over lumpy grassy ground and through some open birch woodland to meet the deer fence encircling the forestry above Loch Laggan’s southern shore.

Keeping above the fence, turn north-east and follow faint deer tracks through thick, knee-deep grass beneath the crags of Binnein Shuas’s north-west face. The rough ground gradually eases as the route curves towards the broad base of Binnein Shios. From here, grassy slopes rise gently eastwards, the ground improving underfoot with fine views opening across Loch Laggan.

On Binnein Shios's summit, looking northwards

On Binnein Shios's summit, looking northwards

Solitary tree above the forest with Binnein Shuas beyond

Retrace the route from Binnein Shios’s summit for around a kilometre, then begin turning north-west towards the edge of the forestry below. A solitary tree stands just before the forest boundary; beyond it, look for a small burn and a gate in the deer fence. The gate is often wired shut, but it’s straightforward to slip under the fence where the burn passes beneath.

On thetrack, looking back to Binnein Shios

On thetrack, looking back to Binnein Shios

The crest of Binnein Shios stands above steep rocky ramparts, with only the southern approach — described in the main route — giving easy access to the summit. Local mountain guide Richard Kermode tells me that it is possible to continue directly north-east from the summit of Binnein Shuas towards Binnein Shios, though this line involves some careful navigation, particularly in mist, to locate a weakness in the rock (see photo). This can be descended with care to reach easier ground below for a continuation towards Binnein Shios.

Possible direct route down Binnein Shuas

Possible direct route down Binnein Shuas