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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
