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The Sustainable Stop

Munro Profile 41: Tom a’Chòinich

Region: North-west Highlands – Glen Affric / Mullardoch fringe
Height: 1,112m (3,658 ft)

Tom a’Chòinich is a high and ridge-framed summit on the western edge of the Affric–Mullardoch arc, often paired with Toll Creagach. Its name, “hill of the moss” or “hill of the common ground”, evokes softness and texture, fitting for its grassy ridges and lochan-framed ascent. For campervan travellers, access is via Glen Affric, with a well-maintained track and circuit potential.

Trailhead and Parking

Primary Access Point: Glen Affric Road-End (near Affric Lodge)
Grid Reference: NH200233 (trailhead)
Summit Grid Reference: NH164273

Capacity: Small gravel area; suitable for short campervans during the day
Facilities: None at the trailhead
Charges: Free
Overnight: Not permitted

Nearby Options

  • Cannich: Campsite with full facilities
  • Wild parking: Possible in designated laybys
  • Drumnadrochit: Additional amenities

Route Overview

Standard Ascent: Track via Gleann nam Fiadh and East Ridge
Distance: ~16 km round trip
Elevation Gain: ~950 metres
Terrain: Grassy ridges, rocky paths, exposed summit
Time Estimate: 6 to 8 hours

Navigation Notes

  • Often paired with Toll Creagach
  • Summit is cairned and exposed. A map, a compass, or a GPS is essential
  • The weather can shift quickly across the massif

Campervan Suitability

Day Parking

  • Glen Affric road-end allows daytime campervan access
  • Cannich and Drumnadrochit offer overflow options

Overnight Options

  • Cannich Campsite
  • Wild parking may be possible

Fuel and Supplies

  • Cannich: Shop, café
  • Nearest large supermarket: Inverness

Legacy Log

  • Name origin: “Tom a’Chòinich” translates to “hill of the moss”
  • Summit features: Cairn with views across Glen Affric, Toll Creagach, and the Mullardoch arc
  • Known for: Ridge rhythm, lochan charm, and circuit elegance
  • Popular with: Legacy stewards, ridge walkers, and those seeking a textured Affric traverse

Closing Notes

This is Munro Profile 41 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve climbed Tom a’Chòinich or linked it with Toll Creagach, feel free to share your reflections. Your insights help shape the archive and support fellow travellers.

Sources Used
These sites provide far more detailed and comprehensive overviews of the walks and Munros than I could hope to cover here:

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