Beinn Bheigeir

Beinn Bheigeir stands on the island of Islay in Argyll and Bute, rising to the highest point on the island at 491 metres. It is the tallest of the seven Marilyn hills on Islay, a category that recognises hills with a relative height of at least 150 metres. The hill lies in the south-east of Islay within the Ardtalla Estate, a private area of farmland and woodland. One common route to the top begins at Ardtalla, heading north towards Proaig before turning west. After gaining some height the path swings northwest around the hill towards Bealach Corrach. The walk rewards climbers with wide views on clear days. From the summit a trig point marks the spot, a concrete pillar used by map-makers in the 20th century. On the horizon Jura’s Paps appear, three rounded peaks that dominate the island’s skyline. To the south-west Kintyre stretches out, while Arran rises to the north-east. Most of Islay itself unfolds below, showing its patchwork of peat bogs and farmland. The route itself is straightforward but requires a steady climb once the bealach is reached. The final push to the summit is steep, passing rough grass and heather before reaching the open plateau. The trig point sits on a small cairn, a useful landmark in misty conditions. The return journey follows the same path, giving walkers time to look back at the hills they have just climbed.