Stob a' Ghrianain, Druim Fada
Druim Fada is a long, undulating wide ridge above Loch Eil, crowned by Stob a’ Ghrianain and edged by steep, corrie-cut northern slopes.
Stob a' Ghrianain, Druim Fada
| Height | 743m |
| Prominence | 518m |
| Meaning | peak of the sunny spot, long ridge |
| Lists | Fionas (F24) |
| Location | Glen Mallie and Glen Loy, South Morar to Glen Loy |
| Grid Ref | NN086824 |
| Lat/Lon | 56.8934, -5.14227 |
Druim Fada stands above the northern shore of Loch Eil, rising opposite Ardgour and overlooking Glen Loy to the north. From the lochside and from the road to Corpach, the hill presents a long, uniform sweep of grass- and heather-clad slopes climbing steadily to the skyline.
The eastern flank is indented by the pleasant hollow of Coire an Lighean, but the character of the hill changes dramatically on its northern side. Here, four corries cut into the ridge, their rims edged with steep ground, rocky towers and short cliff bands. In winter, large cornices can build above these slopes, giving the ridge a far more serious aspect.
The broad crest of Druim Fada stretches for over 6km from west to east. It is wide and undulating, dotted with small lochans and minor rises. The highest point is Stob a' Ghrianain, which stands near the eastern end of the ridge above significant drops into the corries below. The West Top also has a dramatic position above steep ground, adding interest to a long traverse.
With forests surrounding the hill above Loch Eil and Glen Loy, a network of tracks gives many possible access points. If aiming just for the summit of Stob a' Ghrianain, the shortest routes begin from Glen Loy to the east.
However, the character of Druim Fada lies in its long, undulating crest. A fine alternative is to ascend from Fassfern, where forestry tracks and rough paths give access to the western end of the ridge. From there, a long but gentle walk follows the broad crest eastwards over the West Top to reach the summit of Stob a' Ghrianain.
Routes up Stob a' Ghrianain
Druim Fada from Fassfern | |
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Long but straightforward route from Fassfern to Druim Fada, gaining its broad ridge and following it eastwards to Stob a' Ghrianain with wide views. Peaks : 1 Fiona/Graham
Ascent : 1100m (3610ft) Distance : 21km (13m) Time : 7:05hr* | |
Nearby hills and mountains
* Times shown are estimates – see timing notes on the disclaimer page for more information.
