Region: Torridon – Glen Torridon to Loch Maree
Height: 993m (3,257 ft)
Spidean Coire nan Clach, “peak of the corrie of stones,” is the eastern Munro of the Beinn Eighe massif—a quartzite fortress of ridges, buttresses, and mythic symmetry. Though slightly lower than Ruadh-stac Mòr, this summit is often the first reached from Glen Torridon, rising above Coire an Laoigh with sculptural drama. The trig point near the top is not the true summit; a short scramble is required to reach the final cairn. For campervan travellers, access is excellent via the A896, with wild parking and ceremonial proximity to Kinlochewe.
Trailhead and Parking
- Primary Access Point: Coire an Laoigh car park (A896)
- Location: Glen Torridon, between Kinlochewe and Torridon village
- Grid Reference: NG958568 (trailhead)
- Summit Grid Reference: NG972578
- Capacity: Moderate; suitable for daytime campervan access
- Facilities: None at the trailhead
- Charges: Free
- Overnight: Not permitted at the trailhead; wild parking possible nearby
Alternative Options
- Kinlochewe: Campsite with full facilities, 10-minute drive east
- Torridon Village: Informal parking, café, and community centre
- Wild Parking: Laybys along A896 and minor roads (check signage)
Route Overview
- Standard Ascent: Out-and-back via Coire an Laoigh and summit ridge
- Distance: ~17 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: ~1,250 metres
- Terrain: Stalkers’ paths, quartzite scree, exposed scrambling
- Time Estimate: 6 to 7 hours
Extensions:
- Often linked with Ruadh-stac Mòr for a full Beinn Eighe traverse
- Views extend to Liathach, Slioch, and the Triple Buttress of Coire Mhic Fhearchair
Navigation Notes
- Route begins with a well-maintained path into Coire an Laoigh
- Trig point is not the true summit; scrambling is required to reach the cairn
- A map and compass are essential; GPS is helpful for summit identification and ridge transitions
- Weather can shift quickly; ceremonial pacing and full kit advised
Campervan Suitability
- Day Parking: Coire an Laoigh car park allows informal access
- Overnight Options:
- Kinlochewe Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
- Wild parking possible in designated laybys
- Torridon village: Quiet overnighting with community courtesy
- Facilities: None at the trailhead; pack with foresight
Fuel and Supplies
- Kinlochewe: Fuel station, small shop
- Torridon Village: Café, limited supplies
- Nearest Large Supermarket: Gairloch or Inverness
- Outdoor Gear: Available in Inverness or Ullapool
- Water Refill: Recommended before entering the Torridon corridor
Legacy Log
- Name Origin: “Spidean Coire nan Clach” means “peak of the corrie of stones”
- Summit Features: Scrambling ridge, trig point, quartzite cairn
- Known For: Dramatic ascent, sculptural terrain, and sacred exposure
- Popular With: Ridge walkers, legacy stewards, and those seeking mythic clarity
Closing Notes
This is Munro Profile 150 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve traced the quartzite ridge, paused at the true summit beyond the trig, or found a rhythm in the corrie’s sculptural hush, 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: