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Step into a world of breathtaking beauty on the captivating Isle of Arran. From coastal paths to rugged hills, join us on unforgettable hikes and uncover the magic of this outdoor paradise. Sign up for exclusive tips and embark on an adventure with us!

Arran Coastal Way (3)

Hike the Stunning Arran Coastal Way

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Hike the Stunning Arran Coastal Way

Welcome to our guide on the stunning Arran Coastal Way, where we take you on a journey through one of Scotland’s most picturesque coastal walks. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to explore this beautiful trail and make the most out of your visit to the Isle of Arran.

Before we delve into the details, let’s get one thing clear – the Arran Coastal Way is not just a walk, it’s an adventure. From rugged coastlines to stunning vistas, this trail has it all. So, lace up your boots and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Arran Coastal Way Overview

The Arran Coastal Way is a circular route that covers approximately 65 miles around the Isle of Arran. The trail starts and finishes in Brodick, the island’s largest town, and takes walkers on a journey around the island’s stunning coastline.

 

Table of Contents:

The route is broken down into 8 stages, each ranging from 5 to 10 miles. This allows walkers to take their time and explore each section in detail, while also providing plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation.

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Stages of the Arran Coastal Way


Stage 1: Brodick to Lamlash

The trail starts in Brodick and takes you along the coast to Lamlash, where you can enjoy a well-deserved pint at one of the local pubs. Along the way, you’ll see stunning views of Goatfell, the island’s highest peak.

Stage 2: Lamlash to Whiting Bay

This section of the trail takes you along the coast to Whiting Bay, where you can enjoy some of the island’s most beautiful beaches.

Stage 3: Whiting Bay to Kildonan

This stage takes you through some of the island’s most rugged terrain, with stunning views of Ailsa Craig in the distance.

Stage 4: Kildonan to Lagg

This section of the trail takes you along the coast to Lagg, where you can enjoy some of the island’s best seafood.

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Stage 5: Lagg to Blackwaterfoot

This section of the trail takes you through some of the island’s most remote and untouched landscapes.

Stage 6: Blackwaterfoot to Machrie

This stage takes you through some of the island’s most ancient landscapes, including the Machrie Moor Stone Circles.

Stage 7: Machrie to Lochranza

This section of the trail takes you along the coast to Lochranza, where you can enjoy stunning views of the island’s northern coastline.

Stage 8: Lochranza to Brodick

The final stage of the trail takes you along the coast back to Brodick, where you can enjoy a celebratory drink at one of the local pubs.

Tips for Walking the Arran Coastal Way

Plan ahead:

Make sure you have all the necessary gear and provisions before setting out on the trail. This includes a good pair of hiking boots, waterproof clothing, and plenty of food and water.

Take your time:

The Arran Coastal Way is not a race. Take your time and enjoy each stage at your own pace.

Respect nature:

The Isle of Arran is a fragile ecosystem. Make sure you respect nature and leave no trace behind.

Be prepared for the weather:

The weather on the Isle of Arran can be unpredictable. Make sure you check the forecast before setting out and be prepared for all conditions.

Support local businesses:

The Isle of Arran is home to many small businesses. Make sure you support them by buying local produce and staying in local accommodation.

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Conclusion 

The Arran Coastal Way is one of Scotland’s most beautiful coastal walks, offering stunning views and a unique adventure for walkers.

With our guide, you’ll be well-equipped to explore this trail and make the most out of your visit to the Isle of Arran. So, what are you waiting for? Put on your hiking boots and start your adventure today!

We hope you found this guide helpful in planning your journey on the Arran Coastal Way. With its stunning coastal views, ancient landscapes, and vibrant local communities, this trail has something for everyone. So, go ahead and book your trip to the Isle of Arran today, and experience the beauty of Scotland’s coastal landscapes for yourself!

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Glen Iorsa (6)

Glen Iorsa Boathouse Walk, Dougarie

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Glen Iorsa Boathouse Walk, Dougarie

Distance: 7.5km      Time: 3 hours   

Terrain: Rough earth footpaths and tracks. Beware: there is a ford.

Difficulty: Medium

Explore the Beautiful Glen Iorsa in Arran: 

Fun Hiking Adventure to the Boathouse

Nestled in the heart of the enchanting Isle of Arran lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered – the picturesque Glen Iorsa. With breathtaking views and a serene loch, this charming glen is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

Get ready to leave the hustle and bustle of daily life behind and embark on an unforgettable adventure. Follow our guide and immerse yourself in the beauty of Glen Iorsa, where every step is a new opportunity to marvel at the wonders of nature.

Are you ready for a hiking experience like no other? 

Let’s go!

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The Route

Stage 1: Off the Beaten Track

Forget about the main entrance track – Dougarie Lodge has provided a well-signposted footpath for a more scenic route. Start at the layby adjacent to the A841 at NR881369, and follow the surfaced track uphill until you reach a ladder stile. Cross it, and turn left along an obvious grassy path that leads you through pleasant deciduous woodland and dense bracken.

Keep an eye out for boggy patches!

Stage 2: A Bypass and a Bridge

You’ll eventually reach the main estate track into the glen, but not before bypassing the old shooting lodge. Cross Allt na h-Airighe via a wooden footbridge and enjoy the well-made track beyond. Take in the breathtaking views down the glen to Beinns Tarsuinn and Nuis.

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Stage 3: Follow the River

As you move further along the glen, you’ll pass through a deer gate and cross a ford over Scaftigill Burn. Unfortunately, the footbridge was swept away during a storm, so watch your step. You’ll be accompanied by Iorsa Water, one of Arran’s two salmon rivers, for the early part of the walk. The river is divided into 16 pools over two beats by a series of weirs.

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Stage 4: The Summit and Lochs

Look out for a small path on the left marked by a tiny pale cairn just after crossing the shallow ford. This path will lead you over rough moorland to the summit of Sail Chalmadale, passing a couple of pleasant mountain lochs along the way. Continue along the obvious track along the broad, empty glen for a further 1.5km until you reach the boathouse at the foot of Loch Iorsa. A path continues alongside the loch, but it’s particularly boggy and soon disappears. Instead, take the time to enjoy the stunning scenery before retracing your steps back to the start.

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Summary

As we conclude our journey through Glen Iorsa, we are left in awe of the stunning Scottish landscape. From the rugged paths and rocky steps to the serene lochs and broad, empty glens, we have witnessed the beauty and diversity of this hidden gem. Our trek has led us through dense forests, shallow fords, and boggy terrain, with each step revealing new challenges and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

As adventurers, we have been privileged to explore this magnificent environment, but it is our duty to protect it for future generations. The beauty of nature is a treasure to be cherished and safeguarded at all costs. Let us continue to seek out new paths, new adventures, and new discoveries while always remembering to respect and appreciate the natural world. We must do our part to ensure that future adventurers can experience the same majesty and wonder that we have encountered on our journey through Glen Iorsa.

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Eas Mor Waterfall Walk (5)

Eas Mor Waterfall and Loch Garbad Walk, Kildonan

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Eas Mòr Waterfall & Loch Garbad Walk, Kildonan

Distance: 5.5km      Time: 1 1/2 – 2 hours   

Terrain: aggregate footpaths to waterfall then muddy sections beyond.

Difficulty: Medium for all abilities

Fun Hiking Adventure: Explore the Majestic Eas Mòr Waterfall and Loch Garbad!

Looking for an exciting hiking adventure that will leave you in awe of Scotland’s natural beauty? Look no further than the Eas Mòr waterfall walk in Kildonan! This stunning trail takes you through a beautiful forest and alongside a deep gorge before leading you to the breathtaking Eas Mòr waterfall. Along the way, you’ll also discover the tranquil Loch Garbad and the enchanting Eas Mòr Ecology library. So, grab your hiking boots, get ready for an adventure, and let’s explore the natural wonders of Scotland!

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The Route

Are you ready for an unforgettable hiking experience in Scotland? Follow this guide and discover the beauty of Eas Mòr Waterfall in Kildonan.

Stage 1: Starting Point

Start your adventure at the dedicated car park located along A841, opposite the road leading to Kildonan. The bus can also stop here upon request. Walk towards Ear Mòr Ecology interpretative board and donation box and take the well-made track created by the organization. Enjoy the gentle gradient with various native plants and trees surrounding the path. You’ll also see wildflowers dotting the path’s edges.

Stage 2: Entering the Forest

As you walk, the path enters the forest, providing a stunning view of a deep, steep-sided gorge, which is deep enough to prevent the Allt Mòr at the valley base from being seen from the path. 

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Stage 3: View Platforms and the Waterfall

Along the path, there are several viewing platforms, but the final platform offers the most breathtaking view of the Eas Mòr waterfall. You’ll see a single, long plume of water plunging down the cliff face and into the ravine below. After viewing, take the path that forks to the left and is signposted ‘Loch Garbad 1 mile.’ Continue along the rougher path, with the tall conifers on your left and farmland on your right.

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Stage 4: Enchanting Loch Garbad

After some time, you’ll reach a gate and stile leading down to Ballymeanochglen and the farm beyond. Ignore this and keep left to re-enter the forest. Follow the path that runs alongside a small stream before entering a wider forest ride lined with heather. You’ll soon reach Loch Garbad, a serene place popular with fly fishermen. It’s perfect for a tranquil lunch break.

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Stage 5: Eas Mòr Ecology Library

To finish off your journey, return to the junction above the waterfall, but this time turn left to visit the Eas Mòr Ecology library. It’s a turf-roofed wooden structure made from trees felled in the 1998 storm and lined with drawings created by visitors. After that, head back to the car park via the main track.

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Summary

The Eas Mòr waterfall walk on the picturesque Arran Island is a truly remarkable adventure, where one can experience the raw and awe-inspiring beauty of Scotland’s natural wonderland. As we journey through the lush forests, we are greeted by the gentle rustle of the leaves and the sweet fragrance of the native plants and wildflowers.

But it’s the towering Eas Mòr waterfall that truly takes our breath away, as its single, long plume plunges down the cliff face and into the ravine far below. And let us not forget the tranquil Loch Garbad, home to a variety of fish and a perfect spot for a peaceful lunch break.

This walk on Arran Island is truly a feast for the senses and a remarkable experience for nature enthusiasts. So, let’s lace up our hiking boots and discover the natural wonders of the Isle of Arran on this incredible journey.

Glenashdale Falls (1)

Glenashdale Falls and Giants Graves, Walk, Whiting Bay

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Glenashdale Falls and Giants Grave Walk, Whiting Bay

Distance: 4.5km      Time: 1.5 hours   

Terrain:   Clear tracks and aggregate footpaths.

Difficulty: Easy

Glenashdale Falls and Giant’s Graves: An Unforgettable Whiting Bay Adventure 

Are you ready for a scenic journey through the heart of Whiting Bay? 

Join us as we explore the beauty of Glenashdale Falls and Giant’s Graves. 

This exciting walk takes you through lush woodland, past a sparkling burn, and up to a magnificent viewing platform overlooking the 140-foot (45-metre) tall Glenashdale Falls. Get an up-close look at the upper falls before visiting the historic Giant’s Graves site with panoramic views over the bay.

So, pack your picnic basket and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

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The Route

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STAGE 1: Parking and Picnic Paradise

Convenient parking options located north and south of Ashdale Bridge at the southern end of Whiting Bay provide the perfect starting point for your adventure. Take a moment to enjoy a picturesque picnic surrounded by stunning views of the bay before setting off on the signed path on the south side of the bridge, just past the barrier.

STAGE 2: A Stroll Through the Woods 

Embark on a stroll through lush woodland alongside a sparkling burn as the path steadily gains elevation and crosses a quaint footbridge over a tributary stream.

STAGE 3: The Glenashdale Falls Viewing Platform 

Marvel at the breath-taking views from the viewing platform of the Glenashdale Falls, also known as Eas a’ Chrannaig in Gaelic. The double falls are a magnificent 140 feet (45 metres) tall and offer a spectacular photo opportunity.

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STAGE 4: An Up-Close Look at the Upper Falls

A second viewpoint offers a closer look at the upper part of Glenashdale Falls. Take the path signed for “Giant’s Graves” to the left.

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STAGE 5: The Giant’s Graves Experience 

Climb up to the track at a T-junction and turn left, following the track for approximately 1 km until a junction. Turn left again following the signs for the graves and take another left onto a path to reach the impressive pair of chambered burial cairns known as the “Giant’s Graves.” Enjoy the stunning view over the bay from this historic site.

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STAGE 6: Descent and Return Journey

Begin your descent with breathtaking views of Whiting Bay village. The path becomes steep as you approach the sign marking the return route. Turn right to return to the road and parking area.

In Summary

End your adventure with a sense of accomplishment and a camera full of memories. This scenic journey through Whiting Bay offers something for everyone, from picnic lovers to history buffs to nature enthusiasts. 

So grab your hiking boots and set out on your adventure today!”

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Loch na Davie (7)

Loch na Davie Loop, Walk

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Loch na Davie Loop Walk, Lochranza

Distance: 16.5km      Time: 5.5-6.5 hours   

Terrain: Rough boulder path, Extremely boggy in places depending on the weather, starts and finishes with stretches on the road. 

Difficulty: Hard.

Loch na Davie Loop: A Scenic Hike to the Heart of Lochranza

Embark on an adventure through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes with the Loch na Davie loop walk. Start at the charming Lochranza and be transported back in time as you stroll past a ruined castle with a rich history. Marvel at the Arran Distillery, built on the purest water source in the country, and wander along the sparkling river. Tackle the rocky path and be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Loch na Davie, the purest loch in Scotland surrounded by the rarest trees in the UK. Discover the story of the Twelve Apostles, a village with a fascinating past, and pay your respects at the Sailor’s Grave, a place where history and mystery intersect. End your journey passing the ferry terminal to new and exciting possibilities. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Scotland and leave with a sense of awe and wonder.

The Route

STAGE 1: Start at Lochranza Hotel Car Park

Begin your journey in the Lochranza Hotel car park and head south along a peaceful road. Admire the stunning remains of a ruined castle, with roots dating back to the 13th century, standing tall on a promontory. Continue on past the youth hostel, field study center, and campsite to reach the new Arran Distillery. It was built here in 1995 based on the recommendation of Glasgow University’s Geology Department due to the pure water, ideal location near the Gulf Stream, and rich history of quality (illicit) whisky production on the island.


STAGE 2: Explore the Crystal-Clear River

Take the path after the distillery but before a small bridge to follow the sparkling river through Gleann Easan Biorach. The path quickly becomes rocky and bumpy, with waterfalls cascading through a picturesque gorge. The path levels out onto a damp moorland, where progress may be hindered by deep patches to avoid.

STAGE 3: Ascend to the Purest Water in Scotland

Climb towards the bealach, navigating a rocky and often wet path. Reach the serene waters of Loch na Davie, which has been described as Scotland’s purest water by Glasgow University. Circle around the right of the loch and ascend over the shoulder of Beinn Bhreac to reach another beach. Descend into Gleann Diomhan and follow the well-trodden path on the east side of the burn. Admire the rare Catacol Whitebeam (Sorbus pseudomeinichii) trees, the only two examples of their kind in the United Kingdom, protected by a deer fence and two kissing gates.

STAGE 4: Stroll through Glen Catacol

Pass through the gates and follow the path into the beautiful Glen Catacol. Listen to the rush of water over the light-coloured granite slabs and watch as it becomes Abhainn Mhòr as the valley opens up below Creag na h-Iolaire. Join another path at a cairn before making your final descent to the road south of Catacol. Walk north along the quiet road, passing the historic Twelve Apostles cottages, built to house crofters displaced by the clearances. Each cottage was unique, with a differently shaped upper window to allow fishermen to signal from offshore.

STAGE 5: Visit the Sailor’s Grave

Pass the Catacol Bay Hotel and continue along the road, taking in the rugged cliffs dotted with caves and inhabited by nesting seabirds. Branch right onto a grassy track and reach The Sailor’s Grave, a simple inscribed rock headstone marking the resting place of John McLean. It is customary to add a pebble from the beach to the mound as a form of apology for his exclusion from the village graveyards. Follow the road back into Lochranza, passing the ferry terminal and returning to the start of your walk.”

Visit the Machrie Moor Stones on this Walk

Machrie Moor Stones, Walk

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Machrie Moor Stones Walk, Machrie

Distance: 4.5km      Time: 1.5 hours   

Terrain: Farmers fields,  tracks, aggregate footpaths, Muddy

Difficulty: Easy

Visit One of the Most Magical Locations on the Island.

The Machrie Moor Stone Circle Walk is a unique and unforgettable experience that takes visitors back in time to explore the ancient standing stones that date back to the Bronze Age. The walk is set in the beautiful Machrie Moor and offers stunning views of the rolling hills and the surrounding landscape.

The Route

The journey begins at the Machrie Moor car park, where visitors will find a signed parking area on the A841 road, south of the bridge over the Machrie Water. The first stage of the walk takes visitors through the pedestrian gate and along the farm track through the green pastures.

 The second stage takes visitors through a gate, where they will see the first cairn over a fence to the right. There is a detailed information board here, which provides visitors with information about the history and significance of the site. The path continues to the ruins of Moss Farm and the double stone ring of Suide Choir Fhionn or Fingal’s Cauldron Seat, named after the legendary warrior and giant Fingal.

The third stage of the walk takes visitors to an impressive group of standing stones. Visitors will find a fine stone circle on the right and a path to the left that detours out to a particularly impressive solitary stone.

The fourth stage takes visitors to the finest group of three free-standing sandstone slabs the tallest of which is over 5 meters high. It is thought that the circles date back to 1600 – 1800 BC, but excavations have revealed they may have replaced even earlier wooden structures. The moor is also dotted with hut circles and other remains. Goatfell is prominent in the distance.

Visit the Machrie Moor Stones on this Walk

The fifth and final stage of the walk takes visitors back to the starting point, retracing their steps along the same route.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Machrie Moor Stone Circle Walk is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers visitors the opportunity to explore the ancient standing stones, admire the stunning views, discover the rich history of the Isle of Arran and enjoy a great diversity of natural elements that the island offers. This walk is perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking for a serene and beautiful outdoor experience.

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Kildonan

Kildonan Coastal Walk

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Kildonan Coastal Walk, Kildonan

Distance: 4.2km Time: 2 hours

Terrain: Roads, Rough tracks & Stoney to Sandy beaches

Difficulty: Medium

Enjoy the Wildlife on the Scenic Coast

Take a walk along the majestic and rocky shoreline below cliffs with the opportunity to see marine wildlife at close quarters. This walk incorporates the best locations for seal watching we have found on the Isle of Arran, Scotland.

The Route

Kildonan is located on the south coast of the Isle of Arran and takes its name from Saint Donan a Gaelic Priest from Ireland who is believed to have been buried in the area.

As you drive along the Kildonan coast you will soon reach a large rocky outcrop with a carpark in front of it just opposite the town hall.

The walk starts from this car park.

Head along the road to the west towards a war memorial that is built into the rocks. As the main road turns sharply to the right inland take the minor road that branches left. Take the road as it heads towards Kildonan’s former post office and shop, watch out for the dog on top of the post to your right and transformer attached to the garage on the left (if they are still there). You will eventually reach a gate through it is a narrow footpath to continue along.

 

From this point you could even just make your own way along the Kildonan coast and back as the path is clear and obvious. Striking waterfalls can be seen tumbling over the cliffs to the right. Unusual rock formations can be seen at this point, jutting out from the sandy beach into the sea like the backs of giant lizards or dragons.

Common seals bask and laze around on these Rocks often in large groups. Information boards along this walk advise you not to disturb the seals by climbing along the rocks.

 Pass an information board which details the varied wildlife to look out for along this section of coast. Follow the path across the grassy section of the beach with the steep cliffs to the right and the beach to the left. In the winter this area can be a bit boggy so there are steppingstones located at points along the walk.

 The rockpools formed in the tidal areas are a unique habitat and great place to spot sea creatures and plants. Just before reaching Struey Rocks (where the path disappears, and the area becomes full of large boulders) turn around and head back. You could carry on a bit but the going becomes quite difficult here in comparison to the rest of the walk.

The walk back opens up some spectacular panoramic views incorporating Ailsa Craig and the Island of Pladda with its iconic lighthouse.

Retrace your steps back along the coast to the Car park.

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Kings-Cave-1800x1000

King’s Cave Loop Walk

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King’s Cave Loop Walk, Blackwaterfoot

Distance: 4-5km Time: 1-1/2 hours

Terrain: Woodland tracks, aggregate footpaths, rocky paths.

Difficulty: Easy / Medium

Walk to see the Kings Cave and be inspired

Visit the site that lays claim to being where an exiled Robert the Bruce, seeking refuge from the English, was inspired by a spider battling against the odds to spin a web. This spiders actions restored Roberts motivation and he continued his campaign which ultimately lead to his victory in the Battle of Bannockburn 1314.

Our Map

KingsCaveLoopMap

The Route

The walk starts from a signed forestry car park north of Blackwaterfoot near Crochandoon. Begin by heading along a winding path from the left hand corner, past the sign.

This walk is a loop and can be completed either a clockwise or anticlockwise the choice is yours. We prefer clockwise

 The path starts in the forest on a clear gravel path continue along this path until you get to a gate. After the gate the path starts to descend towards the shoreline with a fantastic vista looking south along the coastline.

The path now starts to descend more steeply and can be challenging in the rain. At the foot of the slope you will reach a signpost indicating the Arran Coastal Path to the left which will take you along the coast towards Blackwaterfoot. We will take the right along the coastline.

Continue along the coast and after a short distance the caves will begin to appear in the cliffs to the right. King’s Cave, is easily identified by the large metal gate protecting the entrance. 

The gate is usually left unlocked and it is possible to explore the cavernous interior and the ancient carvings contained within.  Upon leaving the cave turn right and continue along the coast passing a few more caves to the right and continue along the foreshore beyond.

You will eventually reach a gate at which the path starts to ascend steeply through a rocky gully. As you reach the top and the path levels out you find yourself back next to the forestry again.

Continue along the path taking in the view of the Pirnmill Hills, and across the Kilbrannan Sound to the Kintyre peninsula to your left.

The path turns right into the trees and as you near the carpark it passes the site of a hut circle. Continue along the path and it will eventually re-emerge at the car park at the start.

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Coire Fhionn Lochan Walk

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Coire Fhionn Lochan Walk, Thundergay

Distance: 5.5 km      Time: 1.5-2 hours   

Terrain:  earth tracks – aggregate sometimes, rocky footpaths  some forded streams.

Difficulty: Easy

Walk and experience one of the Isle of Arran’s most beautiful and scenic Lochans?

Experience the clear water and white beaches of Coire Fhionn Lochan on this walk beginning from Thundergay on the west coast of the Island.

The Route

The most popular route up to Coire Fhionn Lochan starts at Thundergay. There is a small number of parking places on the main ring road directly opposite the Thundergay hilly access road. Alternatively there are few additional spaces approximately 100m north along the ring road adjacent to an old bridge.

At the junction of the road up to Thundergay you will see a sign post marking the start of the walk. From here you follow the road which curves left as it travel up the hill past various houses. Behind the final house you will go through a gate.

 After the gate an earthen track continues upwards the path is clear and easy to follow with bracken either side. Cross a ladder stile adjacent to a deer fence Allt Mor glen should be visible ahead.

Continue and you will reach a burn with a series of large stepping stones. Cross the burn and turn right the Uisge Solius Mhoir now visible to the right. You will soon reach another ford. After heavy rain this becomes difficult to pass without getting wet feet although you should be able to find a suitable dry crossing point option further down the stream.

After crossing the path becomes rockier and you are faced with the most difficult part of the walk a rock stair case that winds up the heather covered ascent. At the top the earth path crosses a number of rockier boulders.

The path eases and switches to a yellow aggregate path which takes you all the way to the picturesque Coire Fhionn Fochan with its White beaches. It is perfect for skimming stones if you are into that though it is a struggle to  find suitable stones.

Drink in the views then return by retracing your steps back to the start.

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Goatfell Summit Walk

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Goatfell Summit Walk, Brodick

Distance: 10.5km      Time: 5-6 hours   

Terrain: Woodland tracks, aggregate footpaths, rocky paths and some boulder scrambles.

Difficulty: Medium

Want to take on the Isle of Arran’s tallest peak, Goatfell?

Goat Fell is the highest peak on the Isle of Arran at 874m (2,867ft) and is an amazing example of a landscape shaped by ancient glacier movement. The summit is the most amazing viewpoint to gaze across the Isle of Arran and out to sea with views of Jura and Ben Lomond.

The Route

The most popular route up the Isle of Arran’s highest peak begins from a carpark across the road to the front of The Wineport Bar & Bistro. The car park is shared with the Arran Mountain Rescue Team Centre.  

Cross the road towards the Wineport and follow the road to the right of the pub past the brewery and you will find a sign that indicates the official start of the walk up Goatfell.

The Goatfell path starts with a woodland accent there will be a few paths branching of but ignore them and keep to the main path. Cross the Brodick Castle Exit Road and continue up through the woodlands.

Ignore the next minor paths joining from the left and right, eventually, the main route curves around to the right but carry on the main path as it gets rockier.

The route is now a clear path and easy to follow however the trekking will get gradually more difficult.

The route emerges from the woodland to cross heather moorland and tracks the Cnocan Burn to the left.  You can see a number of minor waterfalls. It is at that point that you can start to see the glorious views over Brodick behind you.  

You will reach a footbridge over Mill Burn before you reach a deer fence and with gate. Following your passage through the gate the gradient increases as you snake up to the ridge between Meall Breac and Goatfell.

From the ridge veer left and follow the routes over and between the large boulders up towards the peak. The going gets tougher as the gradient increases and you can observe the summit approaching in front of you. You are almost there.

Spectacular views are a plenty over the surrounding ridges and peak as you navigate out of the boulders though a section of heather and grass before you turn right have a slam boulder scramble to the summit.  There are views across the Clyde Estuary and apparently to Ireland though we were not so sure. Drink in the views, have a bite to eat and drink if it is not too chilly. Then about turn and away you go.

The descent is obviously much easier and has marvellous panoramic views of the Isle of Arran and Brodick below. 

Follow exactly the same route down as up. On the return there is the added incentive of a rest and drink at the Wineport or one of the establishments at the bottom.

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