Sgorr na Dìollaid

Sgorr na Dìollaid stands on the high ridge above Glen Affric in the Scottish Highlands. It rises as part of the long walk from Killilan to Inverness, a route that crosses wild moorland and ancient forests. The mountain is measured at 663 metres and appears on three hill lists: Marilyn, Corbett and HuMP. Surveyors last checked its height in October 2001 using modern equipment. Several hill societies keep the official records and publish them on the Database of British and Irish Hills. The name is taken from the Gaelic language, and locals still use the original form. The mountain is worth the journey for walkers who want quiet ridges and wide views. Its slopes are covered with heather and bog cotton, and the summit offers a clear outlook over the Affric Forest. The path starts near the small settlement of Killilan and climbs steadily through open ground. On clear days the Cairngorms appear in the north-east while Glen Affric stretches to the south-west. The route is not crowded, so the only sounds are wind and birdsong. At the top a simple cairn marks the highest point, and the view takes in lochs and glens for many kilometres. The ridge continues north-west towards Sgùrr na Lapaich, another Corbett, giving a longer walk for those who wish. The descent follows the same route back to Killilan, passing through birch woods and past the ruins of old shielings. The whole circuit is about twelve kilometres and takes most of a day. The mountain rewards effort with solitude and sweeping Highland scenery.