Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve
About Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve
Beinn Eighe is a Mountain, Caledonian pine forest and loch reserve in Highland, managed by NatureScot. The reserve covers approximately 4800 hectares and is designated as a National Nature Reserve. The ancient pinewood supports Scottish crossbill, crested tit and capercaillie. Pine martens and red squirrels are common. The mountain areas support ptarmigan, golden eagle and mountain hare. Red deer graze the open ground. Loch Maree supports black-throated divers and otters. Arctic-alpine plants grow on the high summits.
Wildlife & Habitat at Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve
The ancient pinewood supports Scottish crossbill, crested tit and capercaillie. Pine martens and red squirrels are common. The mountain areas support ptarmigan, golden eagle and mountain hare. Red deer graze the open ground. Loch Maree supports black-throated divers and otters. Arctic-alpine plants grow on the high summits.
Location & Nearest Towns
Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve is located in Highland, Scotland. The nearest town is Kinlochewe. Nearby places include Kinlochewe, Torridon, Achnasheen.
Interesting Facts
- Beinn Eighe was Britain's first National Nature Reserve, declared in 1951.
- The reserve contains one of the best surviving fragments of the ancient Caledonian Forest, which once covered much of the Scottish Highlands.
- Loch Maree, on the reserve's boundary, is one of the most important sites in the UK for breeding black-throated divers.
Visitor Tips for Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve
Spring to Autumn offers the best conditions for wildlife viewing.
Binoculars, walking boots or wellies, waterproofs, and a field guide. Insect repellent in summer.
Visitor centre at Aultgowrie with toilets and interpretation. Waymarked trails including the Mountain Trail. Car parks at several points along the A832. Self-guiding leaflets available.
Visitor centre at Aultgowrie with toilets and interpretation. Waymarked trails including the Mountain Trail. Car parks at several points along the A832. Self-guiding leaflets available.
Exploring Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve
Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve is a moderate-access reserve in Highland. The habitat is primarily Mountain, Caledonian pine forest and loch, and the reserve is managed by NatureScot. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or a first-time visitor, the reserve offers a peaceful escape into some of the UK's finest protected landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve suitable for families?
Lower-level trails are suitable for families, but mountain routes require experience. Waymarked low-level trails from the visitor centre. The Mountain Trail involves steep, rocky sections and requires hillwalking experience. All-abilities trail available. Paths can be wet and rocky.
What is the best time to visit Beinn Eighe NNR?
Spring to autumn offers the best walking conditions. Spring and summer for woodland birds and alpine flowers on the mountain. Autumn for red deer rut and golden eagle activity. Winter for snow scenes but mountain paths are dangerous in bad weather — check conditions.
Are dogs allowed at Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve?
Dogs are permitted on waymarked trails under close control. Keep on a lead during the bird breeding season (April to July) and near livestock. Not suitable for dogs on the high mountain routes in hot weather.
Why Visit Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve?
Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve is a designated National Nature Reserve in Highland, Scotland — one of the UK's finest protected wildlife sites. Browse our full directory of UK nature reserves to discover more sites to visit.
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