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Arran Mountain Festival, 2023

12th-14th May 2023 – EVENT HAS NOW PASSED

The Arran Mountain Festival is Scotland’s premier hillwalking, running and mountaineering festival, and it’s not hard to see why. The festival offers a unique opportunity to explore the beautiful island of Arran while enjoying some of the most amazing landscapes that Scotland has to offer. This year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with a fantastic programme of walks, runs, and social events to suit all ages and abilities.

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One of the things that make the Arran Mountain Festival so special is the chance to meet like-minded people who share a love of the outdoors. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a beginner looking to explore the hills for the first time, the festival offers a friendly and supportive environment where you can make new friends and discover new skills.

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The Programme

The festival has a fantastic programme of walks, runs, and social events to suit all ages and abilities. The walks are led by experienced local leaders who know the island and its mountains like the back of their hand. The festival offers a range of walks, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, and there’s something for everyone. Some of the highlights of this year’s festival include walks to Ceum na Caillich and Caisteal Abhail, two of the most stunning peaks on the island.

Day 1: Friday 12 May 2023

Lochranza to Brodick Mountain Walk - 18.5km

Lochranza to Brodick Mountain Walk – 18.5km

Are you ready for a wild and epic adventure? The Lochranza to Brodick mountain walk is calling your name! This route will take you on a journey across the rugged northern-eastern part of Arran, following glens and mountain ridges all the way from Lochranza to Brodick. You’ll conquer the summits of Caisteal Abhail, Cir Mhor, Beinns Tarsuinn and Nuis, all while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Keep your eyes peeled for the Old Man of Tarsuinn, a rock formation that looks like a human face peering out to sea over Brodick. But don’t be fooled, this is no walk in the park – with considerable ascent and descent, you’ll need to be hill-fit to take on this challenge. Don’t miss out on the most physically demanding route of this year’s festival!

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Early Mountaineers - Cir Mhor - 14km

Early Mountaineers – Cir Mhor – 14km

The walk begins gently up Glen Sannox before a challenging climb into Coire na h-Uaimh. The route traverses the summit of Cir Mhor with views of all Arran’s ridges, and descends steeply to the saddle at the head of Glen Rosa with views of distant landmarks such as the A’Chir ridge and Coire Daingean face. The Rosa Slabs, developed in the 1960s, can also be seen.

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Introduction to Map & Compass - 5km

Introduction to Map & Compass

This workshop will be held in Brodick Country Park, and the pace will be unhurried to ensure ample time for learning. The workshop will cover fundamental navigation techniques, including route planning and following using a map, correlating map features to terrain, setting a map with terrain or a compass, measuring distance on the map and ground, and making basic direction decisions while walking on paths. Participants will feel more self-assured about utilizing a map for navigation by the conclusion of the workshop, with the workshop laying the groundwork for future navigation sessions.

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Witch's Step, Castles & Sail an Im - 13.5km

Witch’s Step, Castles & Sail an Im

This hiking route starts at Glen Sannox, and involves a steep climb up to the summit of Suidhe Fhearghas with great views of the Clyde and Glen Sannox. The most challenging part of the walk is Ceum na Caillich, also known as the Witch’s Step, which requires some scrambling and a head for heights. After traversing the ridge, the walk reaches the plateau-like top of the Castles, where a climb up the summit tor rewards you with panoramic views of the island and beyond. The descent route follows the sweeping ridge of Sail an Im down into North Glen Sannox.

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Gaelic in the Mountains - 12km

Gaelic in the Mountains

Walkers on Arran’s smaller and less popular hills near Lochranza will explore the Gaelic language used in local geographical features. After a short section of good track, they will follow a muddy off-road vehicle route to Meall Mor, the first of three summits. The second is Beinn Bhiorach, and the third and highest is Beinn Bhreac. A steep and rocky descent will lead them to Gleann Diomhan and a path down to Glen Catacol, where the walk will finish.

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Glen Rosa - A Walk on the Wild Side - 7.5km

Glen Rosa – A Walk on the Wild Side

The Glen Rosa walk, in partnership with the National Trust for Scotland’s Arran Ranger Service, offers stunning views of the Arran mountains and chances to see wildlife such as golden eagles, adders, and red deer. The path climbs steeply up a forest track onto pathless moorland, providing incredible views of the glaciated valley and northern mountains. The walk continues off the beaten track across boggy and heathery moorland, increasing chances of encountering mountain wildlife. The walk then follows the Garbh Allt across the moor to steeply descend back into the main glen by means of a rocky path. The ranger guide will reveal the glen’s rich natural and cultural history, and an easy track leads back to the start of the route, providing more opportunity to spot wildlife and geological features. The National Trust for Scotland’s conservation efforts to reinstate upland woodlands, including rare trees such as the Arran whitebeams, can also be seen.

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Day 2: Saturday 13 May 2023

A'Chir Ridge Scramble - 15km

A’Chir Ridge Scramble

The A’Chir Ridge Scramble is an adventurous activity for those who enjoy rock climbing and have a head for heights. The A’Chir mountain ridge provides one of the most exciting and challenging days out in the Arran hills. Participants will be roped for safety during the traverse, which exposes them to vertical drops and hands-on rock climbing. The activity is led by local Mountain Leaders who are trained to guide on the A’Chir ridge. Participants must have a good level of fitness, a head for heights, be surefooted and ideally have some previous scrambling experience. The route may be adapted according to weather conditions for group safety.

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Cioch na h-Oighe and Goatfell - 12km

Cioch na h-Oighe and Goatfell

The hike starts at Glen Sannox and includes the peaks of Cioch na h-Oighe, Mullach Buidhe, and Goatfell. The climb to Cioch na h-Oighe is gentle at first but becomes steep and challenging, requiring exposed scrambling. The ridge that follows is narrow and offers breathtaking views. The hike continues to Mullach Buidhe and North Goatfell before reaching the summit of Goatfell. The descent follows the main path to Cladach, with stunning views of Glen Sannox and the Firth of Clyde throughout the hike.

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Holy Isle Mountain Walk - 6.5km

Holy Isle Mountain Walk

Holy Isle is a small island with a height of over 300 meters and a diverse history. It is home to Buddhist monks, various animals, and seabirds. Visitors are welcomed by someone from the Buddhist center after a ferry crossing. The route to the island’s highest point, Mullach Mòr, starts from the pier and passes through pasture, woodland, bracken, and open moorland. The descent is steep, with cliffs on both sides. On the way back, the coastal path is much gentler and has traditional Buddhist rock paintings. The Buddhist center offers refreshments, handmade crafts, and an organic vegetable garden to explore.

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Witch's Step, Castles & Sail an Im - 13.5km

Witch’s Step, Castles & Sail an Im

This hiking route starts at Glen Sannox, and involves a steep climb up to the summit of Suidhe Fhearghas with great views of the Clyde and Glen Sannox. The most challenging part of the walk is Ceum na Caillich, also known as the Witch’s Step, which requires some scrambling and a head for heights. After traversing the ridge, the walk reaches the plateau-like top of the Castles, where a climb up the summit tor rewards you with panoramic views of the island and beyond. The descent route follows the sweeping ridge of Sail an Im down into North Glen Sannox.

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Consolidation of map & compass

Consolidation of map & compass

Looking to enhance your mountain navigation skills? Join this upcoming consolidation session, which offers hands-on practice in map and compass techniques such as bearings, pacing, timing, and slope aspects. Led by experienced guides, the workshop takes place off-path in a scenic area of Arran, allowing you to read the landscape and compare it with the map. By the end of the day, you’ll gain more confidence in using map and compass for navigating in the British mountains. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your hiking game.

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Introduction to mountain running

Introduction to mountain running

This mountain running session, led by ultra-runner and Mountaineering & Climbing Instructor Giles Ruck, is suitable for road or trail runners who want to try running in the mountains. The planned route is up Goatfell, but it may change depending on the conditions and group’s abilities. The route offers varying terrain and steepness to learn about running techniques. Participants should expect to be out for 4-5 hours with a total of around 900 metres of height gain and descent. The session includes advice on clothing and route choices, simple navigation, nutrition, hydration, and coaching on hill running techniques.

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Day 3: Sunday 14 May 2023

A'Chir Ridge Scramble - 15km

A’Chir Ridge Scramble

The A’Chir Ridge Scramble is an adventurous activity for those who enjoy rock climbing and have a head for heights. The A’Chir mountain ridge provides one of the most exciting and challenging days out in the Arran hills. Participants will be roped for safety during the traverse, which exposes them to vertical drops and hands-on rock climbing. The activity is led by local Mountain Leaders who are trained to guide on the A’Chir ridge. Participants must have a good level of fitness, a head for heights, be surefooted and ideally have some previous scrambling experience. The route may be adapted according to weather conditions for group safety.

READ MORE.. | BOOK NOW..
Witch's Step, Castles & Sail an Im - 13.5km

Witch’s Step, Castles & Sail an Im

This hiking route starts at Glen Sannox, and involves a steep climb up to the summit of Suidhe Fhearghas with great views of the Clyde and Glen Sannox. The most challenging part of the walk is Ceum na Caillich, also known as the Witch’s Step, which requires some scrambling and a head for heights. After traversing the ridge, the walk reaches the plateau-like top of the Castles, where a climb up the summit tor rewards you with panoramic views of the island and beyond. The descent route follows the sweeping ridge of Sail an Im down into North Glen Sannox.

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Goatfell Murder Walk - 14km

Goatfell Murder Walk

Discover the infamous Goatfell Murder case of 1889 by retracing the steps of Edwin Rose and John Laurie on this scenic walk. Follow the likely route taken by the two men to the summit of Goatfell and along the Stacach Ridge, while learning about the events of that fateful day. Traverse the summit of North Goatfell and descend to Coire nam Fuaran for a stunning view of the fall line. The walk ends with a descent to the Sannox Burn and a gentle stroll to the cemetery in Sannox where Rose was laid to rest. Join us for a fascinating journey into Scotland’s past on the Goatfell Murder Walk.

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Three Beinns Horseshoe - 14km

Three Beinns Horseshoe

This hike is a popular route on the island of Arran, Scotland. The trail begins in Glen Rosa and takes hikers on a semi-circle route that includes three high ridges: Beinn Nuis, Beinn Tarsuinn, and Beinn a’Chliabhain. The hike offers stunning views of the western hills, lowlands of southern Arran, and the majestic peaks and ridges of the highest northern hills. The trail starts with a steep climb up the Garbh Allt burn, followed by flat moorland and more uphill trekking over boulders and slabs to reach the summit of Beinn Nuis. The hike then follows the ridge to Beinn Tarsuinn, where hikers can see the Old Man of Tarsuinn, a natural rock formation that looks out to sea over Brodick. The trail continues with a steep descent to Bealach an Fhir-bhogha, requiring some rock climbing and boulder negotiation, before turning onto gentler terrain and following a grassy ridge up to Beinn a’Chliabhain. Hikers can spot various mountain wildlife, including birds of prey, ravens, and red deer grazing on the slopes and corries. The hike ends by descending back into Glen Rosa.

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Arran's Western Ridge - 12.5km

Arran’s Western Ridge

The Western Ridge walk in Arran is a scenic route that starts at Pirnmill and goes through beautiful native woodland and a gorge with an impressive waterfall. The route then leads to the rocky tor of Beinn Bharrain and Mullach Buidhe, the highest point on the ridge. The walk then continues along a whaleback ridge with easy terrain, providing views of the Arran mountains to the east, glacial valleys, Loch Tanna and Dubh Loch, and Kintyre and Jura to the west. The descent from the ridge takes the walker to Coire Fhionn Lochain, a lovely little lochan, before finishing at Thundergay.

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Coached mountain running - intermediate - 16km

Coached mountain running – intermediate

This session is for intermediate mountain runners who want to push themselves further. Led by experienced ultra-runner Giles Ruck and a local hill runner, the plan is to run the eastern half of the Glen Rosa horseshoe, with some clambering over rocky ground in moderate grade conditions. The pace will be moderate, with some steep ascents hiked rather than run. The session will also cover mountain running topics such as route choice and safety, navigation, nutrition and hydration, and mountain running objectives and races. Expect to be out for about 5-6 hours.

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Day 4: Monday 15 May 2023

Castles & Sail an Im - 10.5km

Castles & Sail an Im

The circular route takes you through Cuithe Mheadhonach, Caisteal Abhail (Castles), and Sail an Im, providing spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The initial part of the walk is through plantation forest and open moorland, with Caisteal Abhail dominating the skyline. Climbing up Cuithe Mheadhonach offers breathtaking views of the Witch’s Step ridge, and the top of the Castles provides panoramic views of the whole island and beyond. The descent route follows the sweeping ridge of Sail an Im, providing more spectacular views before ending at the start of the walk.

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Three Beinns Horseshoe -14km

Three Beinns Horseshoe

This hike is a popular route on the island of Arran, Scotland. The trail begins in Glen Rosa and takes hikers on a semi-circle route that includes three high ridges: Beinn Nuis, Beinn Tarsuinn, and Beinn a’Chliabhain. The hike offers stunning views of the western hills, lowlands of southern Arran, and the majestic peaks and ridges of the highest northern hills. The trail starts with a steep climb up the Garbh Allt burn, followed by flat moorland and more uphill trekking over boulders and slabs to reach the summit of Beinn Nuis. The hike then follows the ridge to Beinn Tarsuinn, where hikers can see the Old Man of Tarsuinn, a natural rock formation that looks out to sea over Brodick. The trail continues with a steep descent to Bealach an Fhir-bhogha, requiring some rock climbing and boulder negotiation, before turning onto gentler terrain and following a grassy ridge up to Beinn a’Chliabhain. Hikers can spot various mountain wildlife, including birds of prey, ravens, and red deer grazing on the slopes and corries. The hike ends by descending back into Glen Rosa.

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Coached mountain running - advanced -20km

Coached mountain running – advanced

This guided mountain running session is designed for experienced hill runners who want to challenge themselves and improve their skills. Led by ultra-runner and Mountaineering & Climbing Instructor Giles Ruck and a local hill runner, the group will traverse the Arran mountains from north to south, taking in several peaks along the way. The route may be adjusted based on conditions and the group’s abilities. The session will last about 6-7 hours and cover around 1600 meters of height. Coaching on running and scrambling techniques, as well as mountain running topics like route choice, navigation, nutrition, and safety, will be provided throughout the day. The pace will be moderate, and the session may include some exposed ground. The goal is to help participants gain the confidence to tackle more technical routes, run longer and further, or compete in bigger races.

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Sail Chalmadale - Arran's wild west - 15.5km

Sail Chalmadale – Arran’s wild west

The Sail Chalmadale route is a scenic trail that connects Glens Catacol and Iorsa via the remote peak of Sail Chalmadale in Arran’s western hills. Starting from Catacol, the trail follows a rough mountain path alongside the Abhainn Mòr river to reach the shores of Loch Tanna, Arran’s largest freshwater lake. From there, a faint path leads to the summit of Sail Chalmadale, offering panoramic views of Arran and its surrounding mountains. After descending from the summit, the trail passes Loch Sail Chalmadale before joining the Glen Iorsa track. A ford is crossed before the trail winds through wood- and farmland and ends at Dougarie boathouse. Despite its modest height, the isolated peak of Sail Chalmadale offers stunning views and a sense of loftiness.

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Ard Bheinn - Arran's volcano - 10km

Ard Bheinn – Arran’s volcano

Ard Bheinn is an ancient volcano in Arran that erupted 60 million years ago, offering panoramic views of the northern hills and Kilbrannan Sound. The walk to Ard Bheinn starts at The String road’s top, and walkers must wear high-quality boots and gaiters due to boggy or heather-covered ground. If the weather is good, walkers may see interesting birdlife. The walk continues around the volcano’s rim and includes a visit to Binnein na h-Uaimh cave and old lime workings before ending at Glenloig on the String road.

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Visit Official Arran Mountain Festival Site

Book Your Tickets Now Here!

Sustainability at its Heart

The festival is committed to reducing its impact on the environment by reducing its use of single-use plastics. Participants are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles and the festival avoids the use of single-use, non-degradable plastic plates, cups, and cutlery.

All income generated by the festival goes solely towards the cost of putting on the festival and associated expenses. The festival aims to keep prices as low as possible so that as many people as possible can take part. Even though the walk leaders generously provide their services free of charge to the festival, the prices charged do not cover the full costs of providing insurance, transport, and a booking admin system. The festival makes up the balance through the very generous sponsorship of many Arran businesses, social events, and the Friends scheme.

Exploring Unseen Arran

The festival is a great way to explore the island of Arran, which is often referred to as ‘Scotland in Miniature’. The island has something for everyone, from sandy beaches and rugged coastlines to rolling hills and craggy peaks. The festival is a chance to discover the island’s rich history and culture, and sample some of its fantastic local produce.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

The Arran Mountain Festival is a unique and exciting event that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a beginner looking to explore the hills for the first time, the festival offers a friendly and supportive environment where you can make new friends and discover new skills. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and a fantastic programme of walks, runs, and social events, the festival is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

So why not book this year and discover the beauty of Arran for yourself?

Visit Official Arran Mountain Festival Site

Book Your Tickets Now Here!

Arran Mountain Festival, 2023

Lets Get Social

Table of Contents:

The Programme

Day 1: Friday 12 May 2023

Lochranza to Brodick Mountain Walk – 18.5km

Early Mountaineers – Cir Mhor – 14km

Introduction to Map & Compass

Witch’s Step, Castles & Sail an Im

Gaelic in the Mountains

Glen Rosa – A Walk on the Wild Side

Day 2: Saturday 13 May 2023

A’Chir Ridge Scramble

Cioch na h-Oighe and Goatfell

Holy Isle Mountain Walk

Witch’s Step, Castles & Sail an Im

Consolidation of map & compass

Introduction to mountain running

Day 3: Sunday 14 May 2023

A’Chir Ridge Scramble

Witch’s Step, Castles & Sail an Im

Goatfell Murder Walk

Three Beinns Horseshoe

Arran’s Western Ridge

Coached mountain running – intermediate

Day 4: Monday 15 May 2023

Castles & Sail an Im

Coached mountain running – advanced

Sail Chalmadale – Arran’s wild west

Ard Bheinn – Arran’s volcano

Sustainability at its Heart

Exploring Unseen Arran

So, What Are You Waiting For?

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Arran Mountain Festival, 2023

Lets Get Social

Table of Contents:

The Programme

Day 1: Friday 12 May 2023

Day 2: Saturday 13 May 2023

Day 3: Sunday 14 May 2023

Day 4: Monday 15 May 2023

Sustainability at its Heart

Exploring Unseen Arran

So, What Are You Waiting For?

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