Dundonnell and Fisherfield Forest facts for kids
The Dundonnell and Fisherfield Forest is a huge, wild area in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland. It's a mountainous region in Wester Ross, located between two large lakes, Loch Maree and Little Loch Broom. People often call it The Great Wilderness because there are no towns or villages here. It's a place where nature truly rules!
Even though it's called a "forest," you won't find many trees here. That's because it's actually a deer forest. This means the land is mainly used to look after deer, especially for deer stalking, which is a type of hunting.
Exploring the Great Wilderness
This amazing wilderness is divided into three main parts, each owned by a different estate.
- Dundonnell Estate covers about 134 square kilometers (52 square miles) in the northwest. It includes parts of the famous mountain, An Teallach.
- Eilean Darach Estate is larger, covering about 262 square kilometers (101 square miles) in the northeast. It also includes parts of An Teallach.
- Letterewe Estate is the biggest, at 323 square kilometers (125 square miles). It makes up most of the southern and central parts of the area.
Together, these estates protect this special wild place, making sure it stays a home for wildlife and a beautiful spot for adventurers.
Famous Mountains of the Forest
The Dundonnell and Fisherfield Forest is home to some truly impressive mountains. These peaks attract many hill walkers and climbers who love to explore the Scottish Highlands.
- An Teallach: This mountain is one of the most famous in the area. It stands tall to the southwest of a place called Dundonnell. An Teallach is known for its dramatic ridges and stunning views.
- A' Mhaighdean: Rising northwest of a lake called Lochan Fada, A' Mhaighdean is another significant peak. It's often considered one of the most remote mountains in Scotland, meaning it's quite a journey to reach!
- Slioch: You'll find Slioch rising proudly north of Loch Maree, close to the village of Kinlochewe. Its distinctive shape makes it a landmark in the landscape.
For those who venture deep into this wilderness, there's a small, simple shelter called a bothy at Shenavall. A bothy is like a basic cabin that walkers can use for free. It doesn't have electricity or running water, but it offers a roof over your head and a place to rest.
The Shenavall bothy is often used by people who are crossing the entire area on foot. It's also a popular base for climbers planning to tackle the mighty An Teallach. It's a true wilderness experience!
