Arkle (Sutherland) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Arkle |
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Arkle above the shores of Loch Stack
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 787 m (2,582 ft) |
| Prominence | 690 m (2,260 ft) |
| Listing | Marilyn, Corbett |
| Naming | |
| Etymology | Norse ark-fjell, "flat-topped hill" or Scottish Gaelic airceal/airceil, "hiding-place" |
| Native name | Airceil (Scottish Gaelic) |
| Geography | |
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| Parent range | Northwest Highlands |
| OS grid | NC302461 |
| Topo map | OS Landranger 9 |
Arkle (Scottish Gaelic: Airceil) is a striking mountain located in the far northwest of Scotland. It stands proudly in Sutherland, a beautiful area within the Scottish Highlands. Arkle is known for its bright white rock and unique appearance.
Contents
Arkle: A Special Scottish Mountain
Arkle is a mountain that truly stands out. It's often seen as a "sister" mountain to Foinaven, another impressive peak nearby. Both mountains are made of a special type of rock that makes them look very bright.
What is Arkle Made Of?
Arkle is mostly made of a shiny white rock called Cambrian quartzite. This rock was formed about 530 million years ago! It settled on top of an even older rock called Lewisian gneiss. The gneiss is the oldest rock in Britain.
Over millions of years, rivers and glaciers carved through these rocks. This created many isolated peaks, like Suilven, Quinag, and Stac Pollaidh. These peaks rise above a landscape of small hills and lakes. This type of landscape is often called "knock and lochan," which means "hill and small lake" in Scottish Gaelic.
Arkle in Art and Sport
Arkle has inspired people in different ways.
A Royal Painting
'Ben Arkle' was the subject of a painting by Charles, Prince of Wales (now King Charles III). This painting was so special that it was used on British postage stamps. Five different stamps featured paintings by Prince Charles, including his view of Arkle. These stamps were released in 1994. The painting also appeared in a special stamp book that celebrated the Prince's 50th birthday.
A Famous Racehorse
A very famous Irish thoroughbred racehorse was named after this mountain. The horse, also called Arkle, became a legend in horse racing. He was known for his incredible speed and strength.
