The 6 Most Amazing Peaks in The Small Isles

For a truly rewarding climb, consider Askival Peak on Rùm, the highest point on the island and the crown of the Rùm Cuillin. Its majestic pyramidal peak offers spectacular views across the island and to Eigg. On Eigg, An Sgùrr Summit provides one of Scotland's most memorable island ascents with incredible panoramic views.

The Small Isles are rich in unique geology. An Sgùrr Summit on Eigg is a distinctive landmark formed from a thick flow of viscous pitchstone lava, creating an 'inverted valley' with striking column-like structures. The Rùm Cuillin, including peaks like Askival Peak and Hallival Summit, are composed of gabbro peaks, shaped by powerful volcanic activity around 60 million years ago.

While many peaks offer challenging ascents, you can find more accessible options. On Eigg, a walk along the ridgeline of Sgòrr an Fharaidh (340m) makes for a fine afternoon stroll with dramatic views. For general easy hikes, explore routes like the 'Massacre Cave and Cathedral Cave from Galmisdale' on Eigg, which is part of the Easy hikes in The Small Isles guide.

Many peaks offer stunning vistas. From An Sgùrr Summit on Eigg, you can see Eigg itself, Rùm, Skye, and Ardnamurchan. Askival Peak and Hallival Summit on Rùm provide spectacular views of the Skye Cuillin, Red Hills, Applecross hills, and the Isle of Eigg.

The Small Isles offer a variety of hiking trails. On Rùm, you can undertake challenging routes like 'The full Rùm Cuillin loop including Barkeval' or 'The Rùm Cuillin & Dibidil Bothy loop from the Ferry'. On Eigg, there's 'An Sgùrr & Southern Eigg loop from the Ferry'. You can find more details in the Hiking in The Small Isles guide.

Yes, particularly on Rùm. Climbing Askival Peak is often part of a full traverse of the Rùm Cuillin ridge, which can be a multi-day adventure, especially if you plan to stay at a bothy like Dibidil. This allows you to combine several peaks like Askival, Ainshval, and Hallival.

The highest mountain peak in The Small Isles is Askival Peak on the Isle of Rùm, reaching an elevation of 812 meters (2,664 ft). It is also one of the two Corbetts in the archipelago.

While the peaks are primarily known for their natural beauty and geological formations, the names themselves often have historical roots. For example, Askival is Norse for 'ash tree mountain', and Ainshval means 'hill of the strongholds' in Old Norse, reflecting the islands' Viking heritage.

The Small Isles are best visited for mountain hiking during the warmer and drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). This period offers longer daylight hours, more stable weather conditions, and better visibility for enjoying the panoramic views from the summits.

The Rùm Cuillin peaks, including Askival Peak and Ainshval, are challenging and involve steep, rocky terrain and often scrambling, particularly on ridges. The full traverse is a significant undertaking requiring good fitness and navigation skills. Hallival's final ascent involves climbing a 'giant staircase of gabbro ledges'.

Beyond peak bagging, you can explore various outdoor activities. The region offers excellent running trails, such as 'The Rum Cuillin & Dibidil Bothy loop from the Ferry'. You can find more options in the Running Trails in The Small Isles guide. Easy hikes like the 'Kinloch Castle loop' on Rùm are also available.