Beinn na Caillich (Kyle Rhea) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Beinn na Caillich
View of Beinn na Caillich (on the right) from the ferry slipway near Glenelg, August 2008
Highest point
Elevation	732 m (2,402 ft)
Prominence	154 m (505 ft)
Listing	Marilyn, Graham
Naming
English translation	hill of the old woman
Language of name	Gaelic
Geography
Beinn na Caillich Location in Isle of Skye
OS grid	NG770230
Topo map	OS Landranger 33, Explorer 412/413

Beinn na Caillich is a mountain located on the beautiful Isle of Skye in Scotland. Its name means "hill of the old woman" in Gaelic. This mountain stands proudly at the eastern end of the island, not far from a place called Kyle Rhea. It's about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) south-east of Kyleakin.

It's interesting to note that there's another mountain on Skye with the exact same name, Beinn na Caillich, and it's also the same height! This other mountain is in a different area called the Red Cuillin, about 4 kilometers west of Broadford. Our Beinn na Caillich is often climbed by hikers along with its slightly taller neighbor, Sgurr na Coinnich, which is just 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) to the south-west.

Exploring Beinn na Caillich

Beinn na Caillich is a great mountain for exploring the stunning landscapes of Skye. It's known as a "Graham," which is a special list of mountains in Scotland that are between 600 and 762 meters (about 2,000 to 2,500 feet) high. It's also a "Marilyn," a term for any hill in the British Isles with a "prominence" of at least 150 meters (about 492 feet). Prominence means how much a mountain rises above the land around it.

What Makes This Mountain Special?

Beinn na Caillich offers amazing views of the surrounding areas, including the narrow strait of Kyle Rhea, which separates Skye from the Scottish mainland. From its slopes, you can see across the water and enjoy the wild beauty of the Highlands. The mountain is part of the diverse landscape of Skye, which includes rugged hills, green valleys, and dramatic coastlines.

Hiking and Nature

Hiking up Beinn na Caillich can be a rewarding adventure. The paths might be steep in places, but reaching the top gives you a fantastic sense of achievement and incredible panoramic views. As you climb, you might spot some of Scotland's unique wildlife, like deer or various birds. The plant life also changes as you go higher, from heather and grasses to more hardy mountain plants.

Getting There

The mountain is located near Kyleakin, a small village that serves as a gateway to Skye. Many visitors come to this part of the island to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, climbing, and exploring the natural beauty. The area around Beinn na Caillich is relatively quiet, making it a peaceful place to connect with nature.

Images for kids

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  View of Beinn na Caillich (on the right) from the ferry slipway near Glenelg, August 2008