Schiehallion Terrain Block

Schiehallion rises in near-perfect isolation from the forests of Highland Perthshire, its cone-shaped profile visible for miles around. The name derives from Gaelic 'Sìdh Chailleann' - the Fairy Hill of the Caledonians - and its distinctive shape has captured imaginations for centuries. This 1,083-meter peak is famous beyond mountaineering circles: in 1774, astronomer Nevil Maskelyne used its symmetrical form to calculate the mass of the Earth. The mountain's long east-west ridge provides an exhilarating walk with increasingly spectacular views over Rannoch Moor, Loch Tay, and the Cairngorms.

About Schiehallion

Schiehallion holds a unique place in the history of science. The 'Schiehallion Experiment' of 1774 was a pioneering effort to determine the mean density of the Earth. Maskelyne's team spent weeks on the mountain, measuring the deflection of a pendulum caused by the mountain's mass. Their calculations were surprisingly accurate. The mountain was later owned by the John Muir Trust, who have done extensive work to restore the path and regenerate the native woodland on its lower slopes.

Landscape features

• John Muir Trust estate
• Perfect conical shape
• Quartzite ridge
• Site of famous scientific experiment

Elevation: 1083.3 metres.

Your Schiehallion Terrain Block

Choose the area, shape, wood and lettering in the configurator. Each block is 125 mm across, carved in hardwood and set on natural slate.

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