Munro Profile 88: Beinn Iutharn Mhor

Region: Central Highlands – Glenshee Fringe
Height: 1,045m (3,428 ft)

Beinn Iutharn Mhor, “big hill of the cold place,” is a remote and rounded peak nestled between Glen Ey and Glen Lochsie, often paired with Carn an Righ or Glas Tulaichean. Its name evokes isolation and elemental exposure, fitting for its wind-swept ridges and distant feel. Though not visually dominant, it offers a quiet grandeur and expansive solitude. For campervan travellers, access is via Inverey or Spittal of Glenshee, with long track approaches and wild charm.

Trailhead and Parking

Primary Access Point: Inverey Track (near Braemar)
Location: West of Braemar
Grid Reference: NO063897 (trailhead)
Summit Grid Reference: NO045792

Capacity: Small roadside verge; suitable for short campervans during the day
Facilities: None at the trailhead; nearest services in Braemar
Charges: Free
Overnight: Not permitted

Alternative Options

  • Braemar: Campsite with full facilities
  • Wild parking: Possible in designated laybys (check signage)
  • Spittal of Glenshee: Additional amenities and informal parking

Route Overview

Standard Ascent: Glen Ey Track and Bealach Traverse
Distance: Approximately 22–26 km round trip
Elevation Gain: Around 1,000 metres
Terrain: Long track approach, grassy ridges, remote bealachs
Time Estimate: 6 to 8 hours

Extensions:

  • Often paired with Carn an Righ or Glas Tulaichean
  • Circuit can be reversed or adapted via Glen Lochsie

Navigation Notes

  • Summit is cairned and exposed; views span Glen Ey, the Cairngorm fringe, and the Glenshee arc
  • A map and compass are essential; a GPS is helpful for ridge transitions and descent planning
  • The weather can shift quickly across the plateau
  • Track is clear but remote; ridge paths are faint in mist

Campervan Suitability

Day Parking

  • Inverey verge allows daytime campervan access
  • Braemar offers overflow options

Overnight Options

  • Braemar Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
  • Wild parking may be possible in designated laybys
  • No overnighting permitted at the trailhead

Fuel and Supplies

  • Braemar: Shop, café, fuel station
  • Nearest large supermarket: Ballater
  • Outdoor gear and resupply: Available in both towns

Legacy Log

  • Name origin: “Beinn Iutharn Mhor” translates to “big hill of the cold place”
  • Summit features: Cairn with views across Glen Ey, Carn an Righ, and the Cairngorm fringe
  • Known for: Remote prominence, circuit potential, and elemental solitude
  • Popular with: Ridge walkers, legacy stewards, and those seeking a quiet, expansive climb

Closing Notes

This is Munro Profile 88 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve climbed Beinn Iutharn Mhor or linked it with nearby peaks, 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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