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This fine
hill, on the Isle of Mull, illustrates one of the slightly ludicrous aspects
of obsessively ticking a hill only if it lives on a list. It was recently
re-surveyed by the O.S. and came out at 761m, having been 763m. As the
list of Corbetts has a minimum height requirement of 762m poor old Beinn
Talaidh became an ex-Corbett. Nothing else has changed, and it remains
a fine hill, perhaps all the quieter now for having been 'demoted'.
The ferry*
from Oban runs frequently to Craignure, from where a bus can be taken
to Bunessan and Fionnphort. Don't forget to hop out at the head of Glen
Forsa (643 329), on the A849, for the start of this short walk. A track
goes NW through the Ceann Chnocain forest which can be followed a short
way before emerging on to the open shoulder of Maol nam Fiadh, the extremity
of the ridge leading towards the summit.
Take the
ridge, which bends gradually NW then north to the summit. There are no
difficulties. The name means the alluring or soothing hill and certainly
the view on a clear day is just that, with surrounding hills such as Dun
da Ghaoithe to the east and of course Ben More to the west. All around
are the sparkling waters of the Hebrides. Breathe deeply and relax.
* Ferry travels
from Oban to Craignure on Mull, 45 minutes trip time. Contact www.calmac.co.uk
or telephone (Oban) 01631 566 688. There are local buses on Mull.
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