Beinn Bheula from Loch Goil
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Join us to bag this westerly outlying peak in the Arrochar Alps range!
Not so much a single peak but more a rugged cluster of tops, Beinn Bheula rises above forestry plantations between Loch Eck to its south-west and Loch Goil to the east. We will traverse the mountain following an anti-clockwise circular route and if conditions are clear we should be rewarded with some fine views of the the Clyde estuary and it's various sea-lochs to the south and mountain ranges to the north. If we're really lucky we may even see the hills on the islands of Mull, Jura and Arran!
On it's southern slopes we may spot the wreckage of a Martlet AL251 that crashed on the mountain during the second world war.
Details of the proposed route can be found on the Walkhighlands website.
Pronounced something like 'Bain Vay-Wah' in Gaelic, the English translation of Beinn Bheula is a bit vague - one source gives it as Mouth Mountain another as Hill of the Ford. Curiously, Google translates the proper noun Bheula as Belgium and although quite low down in the table of Corbetts, at 779 m, Beinn Bheula still dwarfs all of the hills in Europe's low countries!
In mid-November, hopefully our views will be enhanced by fine autumn colours, but bear in mind we may also experience our first taste of winter, if there has been a dusting of snow on the summits - so be sure to come prepared for the conditions.
What to bring
In Short:
Please pack according to the weather. The route may be muddy in places, hiking boots, waterproofs, warm clothing, a small rucksack, food and drink are recommended.
More Detail:
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere. Walkers should make sure that their boots are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support. Boots should also be in good condition.
Socks: A good comfy pair of walking socks is essential really; they keep your feet warm and drier than normal socks.
Gaiters: Gaiters attach to the bottom of walking boots and extend to just under the knee. They provide waterproofing for the bottom half of the leg. They are not essential to have but you will feel the difference if you have them when walking through muddy or boggy ground - which is almost guaranteed in Scotland.
Walking Trousers: You should have a suitable pair of trousers for walking in, jeans are not suitable as they take on water when wet and will make you cold. The same goes for jogging pants/tracksuit clothing.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in case of wet weather. They are also good to be worn as a second layer as they can act as a windproof barrier, keeping the legs warm.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This could be a cheaper sports top or you could go top of the range with a merino wool top. Avoid cotton T-Shirts as these will become damp and uncomfortable when climbing a mountain.
Other Layers: On top of your base layer, you can have a variety of options such as a micro fleece, a fleece jacket or a rugby/sports top can sometimes be good. Having one or two additional layers gives you flexibility when the weather is changeable – the more layers, the more flexible you can be in adapting to the weather.
Waterproof Jacket: A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking. Walkers should look for a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable in order for them to be protected from sweat. Materials such as Gore-tex are often the best choices but they can be expensive unless you shop sensibly, don’t forget your OutdoorLads discount for Full Members at Cotswold outlets.
Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential. Consider carrying a second one in case your first blows away (it happens).
Gloves: Gloves are essential in the colder months, windproof or better still waterproof gloves are the best choice. Consider carrying a second pair in case your first ones get wet or blow away.
Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential, and required to carry both food and equipment. Day sacks should have a capacity of around 30 litres. As an option you could store your items in waterproof bags inside just in-case or ensure the bag has a waterproof bag to pull over the top.
Emergency Equipment: The leader of the group will normally carry some emergency items, but you are welcome to bring your own such as spare energy food, survival bag, personal first aid kit, head torch and a whistle. It is not essential that you bring all or any of these items but it will do no harm if you do bring.
Map & Compass: If you want to learn to be a leader or you just like to know where you are, then you can bring a map that covers the area. If you are not sure which map to bring, just message the leader. It is best to bring your map either in a map case or purchase maps which are waterproof.
Mobile Phone: If you choose to bring your phone, then you are well advised to buy a waterproof bag or if that is not possible a simple food/freezer bag will suffice.
Food & drink
Bring a packed lunch and ensure you also have plenty of water and spare food in your rucksack. We may visit a local pub or cafe for post-walk refreshments.