Ben Loyal facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ben Loyal |
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| Beinn Laghail | |
Ben Loyal from the north. An Caisteal is the jagged peak second from the left.
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 764 m (2,507 ft) |
| Prominence | 609 m (1,998 ft) |
| Parent peak | Ben Hope |
| Listing | Corbett, Marilyn |
| Geography | |
| Location | Sutherland, Scotland |
| OS grid | NC578488 |
| Topo map | OS Landranger 10 |
Ben Loyal (from the gd: Beinn Laghail meaning "") is a striking mountain in the very north of Scotland. It stands 764 meters (about 2,507 feet) tall. This makes it a Corbett, which is a Scottish mountain over 762 meters high. Ben Loyal is found in Sutherland, a beautiful area in the Scottish Highlands.
The mountain is known for its unique look. It has four rocky peaks that stand out. The tallest of these peaks is called An Caisteal. From Ben Loyal, you can see amazing views. You can look out over the Kyle of Tongue, a sea inlet, to the north. To the east, you'll see Loch Loyal, a large lake. To the west, you can spot Ben Hope, another impressive mountain.
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What Makes Ben Loyal Special?
Ben Loyal is mostly made of a type of rock called granite. This strong rock gives the mountain its rugged and distinctive shape. The four main peaks each have their own height and character.
Exploring Ben Loyal's Peaks
The highest point on Ben Loyal is An Caisteal. It reaches 764 meters (2,507 feet) into the sky. This peak is known for its jagged, castle-like appearance.
Just north of An Caisteal is Sgòr Chaonasaid. This peak is 712 meters (2,336 feet) high. To the south, you'll find Bheinn Bheag, which is 744 meters (2,441 feet) tall. On the western side, there is a ridge called Sgòr a Chèirich. Its highest point is 644 meters (2,113 feet). The fourth peak visible in many photos is Sgòr Fionnaich, standing at 568 meters (1,864 feet).
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name Ben Loyal is thought to mean "law mountain." However, experts are not completely sure about how this name came from its modern Gaelic name, Beinn Laghail.
How to Visit Ben Loyal
Ben Loyal is part of a large area called the Ben Loyal Estate. This estate covers about 24,000 acres (9,700 hectares). It used to be owned by a Danish family. In 2012, it was reported that another person from Denmark, Anders Holch Povlsen, bought the estate.
Getting to the Mountain
To reach Ben Loyal, you can use a farm track. This track starts from the north, near a farm called Ribigill. This farm was once rented by the family of a famous British actor, David Mitchell. The track provides a way for hikers to approach the mountain and explore its beautiful surroundings.
