Am Meall

Hill, Mountain in Argyllshire

Scotland

Am Meall

Beacon at Carraig Mhor On the coastline of Islay. — Beacon at Carraig Mhor Credit: Andrew Abbott

Am Meall, also known as Meall Nan Tarmachan, is a prominent hill located in Argyllshire, Scotland. Situated in the southern part of the country, it forms part of the Tarmachan Ridge and is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Standing at an elevation of 923 meters (3,028 feet), Am Meall offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The hill is characterized by its steep slopes, rocky terrain, and a distinct summit ridge that stretches for approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles). The summit itself is marked by a trig point, providing a clear reference point for visitors.

The ascent to Am Meall can be challenging, with sections of the path requiring scrambling and careful navigation. However, the effort is rewarded with stunning vistas of Loch Tay, the Ben Lawers range, and the surrounding mountains of Argyllshire. On clear days, even the distant peaks of the Cairngorms National Park can be seen.

The hill is easily accessible from the nearby village of Killin, where several walking routes begin. The most popular approach is from the Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve car park, which offers a well-maintained trail leading towards the summit. The hike typically takes around 4-5 hours to complete, depending on the fitness level of the individual.

Overall, Am Meall in Argyllshire is a captivating mountain that offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Its stunning views and rugged terrain make it a must-visit location for anyone seeking an adventure in the Scottish Highlands.

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Am Meall Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.824878/-6.1151549 or Grid Reference NR4266. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Beacon at Carraig Mhor

On the coastline of Islay.

Andrew Abbott

Port na Seilich

From the MV Finlaggan.

Andrew Abbott

Coastline of Islay

With Am Meall in the background.

Andrew Abbott

Building (Period Unassigned)

Not sure is recorded for this pair of ruins. For further info. see Canmore.org.uk. Islay, Kilslevan | Canmore. Available online at: Link

[Accessed 29 May 2022].

Mick Garratt

Building (Period Unassigned)

Not sure is recorded for this pair of ruins. For further info. see Canmore.org.uk. Islay, Kilslevan | Canmore. Available online at: Link

[Accessed 29 May 2022].

Mick Garratt

Kilslevan deserted village

The remains of deserted houses and settlements are common throughout the whole of Scotland, Islay is no exception. Kilslevan seems to have once been a township of at least eight longhouses, and several other buildings, enclosures and two corn-drying kilns although these are hard to discern under the grass and moss. There are the ruins of a rudimentary chapel nearby. Close by too, is an old lead mine, although it is not clear if this was related to the village. Its Gaelic name is Cill Sléibleainn meaning St. Slevan’s Church. The village was abandoned in the later half of 19th century. One local source refers to a claim that it was “a plague village”. Perhaps not ‘the’ plague but an epidemic of some sort may well have reduced the population for it to become unsustainable We are fortunate that the 1836 Islay Tenants Rental List has been transcribed and made available online Under Kilslevan, seven tenants are listed :— Ronald McDougall Alexander Campbell Archibald Currie (Black) Archibald Currie (fair) Archibald McDougall Alexander Currie Hugh Currie Another source gives the population as 67 in the 1841 census, and 55 in the 1851. There must have been big multi-generational families in those days. Abandonment must have taken place sometime in the following decades. For references see my blog Link

Mick Garratt