Bla Bheinn

Often described as one of the finest mountains in Scotland, Bla Bheinn (also known as Blaven) rises to 928 m (3,045 ft) on the Isle of Skye’s Black Cuillin. Though separate from the main Cuillin ridge, it offers equally dramatic scenery and is often considered more accessible than its knife-edged neighbours. Its Gaelic name translates as Blue Mountain, a fitting description for the way its rocky flanks shift colour in different lights. The route begins from Loch Slapin, climbing gradually on a good path through moorland and beside a tumbling stream. Soon, the way steepens into a corrie filled with boulders and scree, before a final rocky pull leads to the summit. From the top, the views are nothing short of spectacular—westward across the jagged Cuillin Ridge, eastward to the Red Cuillins, and beyond to the islands of Rum and Eigg, as well as the mainland Highlands. Though less technical than other Cuillin peaks, Bla Bheinn is still a serious mountain requiring good fitness, navigation, and care on steep, loose ground. Its combination of accessibility and alpine grandeur makes it one of the most rewarding climbs on Skye.