Càrn an Tionail

Standing between Ben Hee and Meallan Liath Coire Mhic Dhughaill, Càrn an Tionail is the highest point on a broad north-south plateau, its eastern face lined with steep cliffs.



Càrn an Tionail

Height758m
Prominence209m
Meaningcairn of the gathering
ListsFionas (F4)
LocationSrath Luib na Seilich to Loch Merkland,
Loch Shin to the Pentland Firth
Grid RefNC392390
Lat/Lon58.31036, -4.74573


South of the mighty peaks of Foinaven and Ben Hope, Càrn an Tionail occupies a commanding position in a quiet corner of Sutherland, overlooking Loch Merkland. Along with its neighbouring minor summit of A' Ghlaise, the high ground forms a wide, open plateau above the upper reaches of the Allt na Glaise.

From a southerly approach, the hill appears as a gentle dome, but as the track is followed uphill, its eastern flanks begin to tell a different story - steep crags and cliffs drop abruptly towards the glen, giving the mountain a more dramatic character.

Càrn an Tionail's summit is expansive and featureless, with the highest point difficult to determine on the ground. A cairn tries to pinpoint, comes close, but not quite marking it.

Extensive views can be had from the summit plateau across the far north-west, with a fine outlook to Foinaven, Arkle and Cranstackie, as well as north-eastwards towards Ben Hope and Ben Loyal.



Routes up Càrn an Tionail

Càrn an Tionail and Beinn Direach

Circuit from West Merkland over Meall a' Chlèirich, Beinn Direach and Càrn an Tionail with varied terrain and expansive north-west Highland views.

Peaks : 2 Fionas/Grahams

Ascent : 965m (3170ft)
Distance : 17km (11m)
Time : 5:50hr*



Nearby hills and mountains




* Times shown are estimates – see timing notes on the disclaimer page for more information.



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