Despite offering great views of the Torridon Hills and the Fannichs, Fionn Bheinn is often dismissed as a relatively unexciting mountain perhaps due to the rather tedious approach. Nevertheless, the grassy terrain means that it’s possible to launch right next to the summit trig point at 933m and the long approach walk is soon forgotten when on a glide back towards Glen Carron. For those not interested in visiting the summit, a more attractive proposition may be simply to walk part way up and launch from Creagan nan Laogh, the high point of the extensive south facing slopes above Achnasheen.
As with the slopes of the more popular Beinn na Feusaige further along Glen Carron, this site is best flown in a light southerly wind. A flight from the summit of Fionn Bheinn will require very light or nil wind conditions and it is worth noting that the wind direction at summit level may be noticeably different to that out in the main valley where there is often a more easterly airflow along the valley.
Take-off
From the parking spot head over the main road to a track just next to the roundabout where the A832 meets the A890. After a short distance, turn right at a signpost leading to the hill path. Follow this path to where it crosses the Allt Achadh na Sine and then follow the stream uphill before branching off to take a more direct line up the hillside towards Creagan nan Laogh. Launch options are plentiful here on the slopes looking back towards Acnasheen. For those wishing to visit the summit, it’s easiest to continue northwards, descending slightly, before another short climb up to the summit ridge of Fionn Bheinn.
Landing
A convenient landing spot can be found just on the eastern side of the village of Acnasheen on what remains of the old road, but it is possible to land pretty much anywhere in this area providing care is taken not to disturb livestock.
If you are not landing on the old road, beware of the very boggy ground in places and watch out for the power cables that run alongside the main road.
Access and parking
From the A835 (Tore to Ullapool road) turn left onto the A832 just after the village of Garve. On entering Achnasheen, turn left to reach a parking area in the centre of the village beside the small village pond.
Local weather notes
Achnasheen lies right in the middle Scotland, midway between the east and west coasts and conditions here can be difficult to predict here as the glen is open to sea breezes which can push in from either coast.
It’s also worth noting that the weather station at Loch Glasscarnoch just to the north (see www.xcweather.co.uk) does not necessarily give a good indication of what conditions will be like in the Glen Carron valley.
Flight rules
All of Glen Carron, including Fionn Bheinn, is in the Highland Restricted Area (HRA) and midweek flying is subject to strict airspace restrictions.
Forecasts are planning aids, not safety clearance. Check current observations, official airspace and NOTAM information, local rules and your own experience before every flight.