Creag Bheag[1] is a prominent hill in Scotland.
Creag Bheag | |
---|---|
![]() The hill as seen from Kinussie golf course | |
Highest point | |
Elevation | 487 m (1,598 ft)[1] |
Prominence | 159[1] |
Listing | Marilyn |
Coordinates | 57.0883710°N 4.0719483°W / 57.0883710; -4.0719483 |
Naming | |
English translation | small rock |
Language of name | Scottish gaelic |
Geography | |
Parent range | Grampian Mountains |
OS grid | NH 74600 01742 |
Climbing | |
Easiest route | Hike from Kingussie |
The word Creag is a variation of crag (rock), while the gaelic term Bheag can be transalted as small.[2]
The hill overlooks from NW the centre of Kingussie; its E flanks are bordered by the Gynack Burn, a left-hand tributary of River Spey, and the N face dominates the Loch Gynack. The hilltop is marked by a cairn, as well as a nearby S summit almost at the same elevation of the main summit. Because of its topographic prominence the hill is classified as a Marilyn.[1]
Due to the easy access and the good panorama from its summit the Creag Behag has always been a popular walk. In 1828 some young men of Kingussie erected a memorial cairn, now disappeared, in order to mourn the loss of Alexander, the 4th Duke of Gordon. For the occasion a crowd of people reached the hilltop accompanied by a band of musicians playing their instruments.[3]
The ascent to Creag Behag from Kingussie is considered a classic hillwalk, apreciated for the panoramic view from the hilltop on the surrounding area. The hike runs on well maintained and waymarked footpaths .[4]
The hill, along with the surrounding area, is part of the Cairngorms National Park.
Media related to Creag Bheag at Wikimedia Commons