Orvan, Bloodstone Hill and Glen Guirdil Loop

This is a serious island mountain circuit on Rùm that packs a lot into roughly 16 km / 10 miles with about 1,100 m / 3,610 ft of ascent, and the “difficult” rating is well deserved. The loop combines a long approach, rough hill ground, steep climbing, and a very remote feel. Even though the distance is moderate on paper, the terrain and exposure to weather make it a committing day. Expect a mixture of estate track, pathless or faintly tracked sections, wet ground, steep grassy and rocky slopes, and broad open hill where navigation matters in mist. HiiKER is the tool to have loaded before setting out.

The route is on the Isle of Rùm National Nature Reserve, a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity and now known for its dramatic mountains, moorland, sea cliffs, and exceptional wildlife. NatureScot describes Rùm as a place of extinct volcanoes, wilderness, red deer, otters, red-throated divers, and both golden and white-tailed eagles; it also supports one of the world’s largest breeding colonies of Manx shearwater. (nature.scot)

The start is best understood as being near Kinloch, Isle of Rùm, with access westward toward Guirdil Bothy and Glen Guirdil. If your route data only gives a bare coordinate, the nearest meaningful landmark for planning is usually Kinloch village and ferry terminal, then the track and path heading toward Guirdil Bothy on the island’s west side. Guirdil Bothy itself sits beneath Bloodstone Hill and is one of the key landmarks on this side of Rùm. (mountainbothies.org.uk)

Getting to the start

For most hikers, reaching the trailhead is a two-stage journey. First, get to Mallaig ferry terminal on the mainland. CalMac notes that Mallaig has connecting bus and train links, which makes public transport realistic if you plan carefully. From Mallaig, the Small Isles ferry serves Rùm; CalMac lists five crossings per week for Rum port, though exact sailings vary and timetables can change. (calmac.co.uk)

By car, drive to Mallaig Ferry Terminal, Mallaig, PH41 4QD on the mainland, then take the ferry as a foot passenger unless you have arranged the necessary vehicle permit. CalMac states that vehicles for the Small Isles, including Rùm, must have a valid permit to travel. On arrival at Rum Ferry Terminal, Isle of Rum, PH43 4RR, continue on foot through Kinloch and pick up the westbound route toward Guirdil. (calmac.co.uk)

Once on Rùm, services are concentrated around Kinloch. The island information site notes that the shop, café, post office, toilets, and other visitor services are in or near the village around Loch Scresort, a short walk from the ferry. (isleofrum.com)

What the route feels like

The early part of the day is usually the most straightforward underfoot, as you leave Kinloch and work west toward the more remote side of the island. This approach helps you settle into the day, but it should not be underestimated: on Rùm, even the “easier” ground can be rough, wet, and slow after rain. The sense of isolation builds steadily as the village disappears behind you and the western hills begin to dominate.

As you near Guirdil, the character changes. The bothy and bay form one of the most atmospheric corners of the island, with Bloodstone Hill rising nearby and the glen drawing the eye inland. The Mountain Bothies Association confirms Guirdil as a remote bothy in the western Highlands and Islands group, and historical mapping records place it directly in the Bloodstone Hill / Glen Guirdil setting. (mountainbothies.org.uk)

From here, the climbing becomes more serious. Bloodstone Hill is not especially high by Scottish standards, but it is a distinctive feature and a steep one in places, with coastal views opening behind you toward the Small Isles and Skye in clear weather. Peak data