Munro Profile 53: Sgurr nan Clach Geala

Region: Ullapool to Inverlael (Fannichs)
Height: 1,093m (3,586 ft)

Sgurr nan Clach Geala, “peak of the white stones,” is the highest and most striking summit in the Fannich range. Its long, curving ridge and quartzite-streaked slopes give it a gleaming presence, especially in low light. Often climbed with Meall a’Chrasgaidh and Sgurr nan Each, it offers a rewarding circuit with expansive views across Wester Ross. For campervan travellers, access is via the A832 laybys near Loch a’Bhraoin or Loch Droma, with options for wild parking and quiet overnighting.

Trailhead and Parking

Primary Access Point: Layby near Loch a’Bhraoin or Loch Droma (A832)
Location: Between Braemore Junction and Kinlochewe
Grid Reference: NH203716 (Loch a’Bhraoin) or NH254705 (Loch Droma)
Summit Grid Reference: NH184716

Capacity: Limited; suitable for discreet daytime campervan access
Facilities: None at the trailhead
Charges: Free
Overnight: Possible with discretion in designated laybys

Alternative Options

  • Ullapool: Campsite with full facilities, 30-minute drive northwest
  • Wild parking: Laybys along A832 and minor roads (check signage and seasonal restrictions)
  • Braemore Junction: Informal parking and access to multiple Fannich routes

Route Overview

Standard Ascent: Circuit via Meall a’Chrasgaidh and Sgurr nan Each
Distance: Approximately 16 km round trip
Elevation Gain: Around 1,100 metres
Terrain: Rocky ridges, grassy slopes, quartzite scree
Time Estimate: 6 to 8 hours

Navigation Notes

  • Ridge is exposed and narrow in places; care is needed in wind or mist
  • The summit cairn is prominent; views extend to An Teallach and Loch Fannich
  • Often climbed clockwise from Loch a’Bhraoin for optimal pacing
  • Map and compass essential; a GPS is helpful for ridge transitions

Campervan Suitability

Day Parking

  • Laybys near Loch a’Bhraoin and Loch Droma allow informal access
  • No facilities—pack with foresight

Overnight Options

  • Ullapool Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
  • Wild parking: Possible in designated laybys (check signage)
  • Braemore Junction: Quiet overnighting with discretion

Fuel and Supplies

  • Ullapool: Fuel station, supermarket, cafés
  • Nearest large supermarket: Ullapool town centre
  • Outdoor gear: Available in Ullapool and Inverness

Legacy Log

  • Name origin: “Sgurr nan Clach Geala” means “peak of the white stones”
  • Summit features: Sharp cairn, quartzite-streaked slopes, sweeping ridges
  • Known for: Gleaming rock, ridge circuit, and visual drama
  • Popular with: Ridge walkers, legacy stewards, and those seeking luminous solitude

Closing Notes

This is Munro Profile 53 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve traced the quartzite ridge, paused at the cairn, or found a rhythm in the Fannich light, your reflections are welcome. Each insight helps shape the archive and supports 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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