Beinn a' Chaorainn

Beinn a' Chaorainn is a mountain peak of approximately 1052 meters in the Cairngorms with a north-south ridge containing three distinct high points. The eastern side features steep corries that hold small mountain lakes.

The mountain was formally reassessed in 1974 when a survey revealed that the middle high point, not the South Top, marked the true summit. This discovery changed its official classification among mountaineers.

The name comes from Scottish Gaelic and means 'Mountain of the Rowan Tree', reflecting how Highlands peaks were traditionally named by local people.

The walk starts from the Linn of Dee car park, with cyclists able to use a track to reach Derry Lodge before continuing on foot through pine forests. The terrain becomes more steep and exposed as you approach the higher sections.

The eastern corrie is called Coire na h-Uamha, meaning 'Corrie of the Cave', even though no significant cave formations exist there. The name may point to shelters or refuges that existed in the past.

GPS coordinates: 57.09333,-3.57759

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:07