Arran’s Western Ridge

 | Overview

Technical Rating

Moderate  

Easy scrambling, elements of exposure, some rough terrain.

Endurance Rating

3  

Sustained steep ascents and descents, long-distance, stamina required, suitable for fit walkers. Have you had recent experience of walking for 6-8 hours? Have you recently walked up (and down) a mountain of over 1000m (3000ft) in height without physical distress? Do you regularly play an aerobic sport pretty much every week? If your answer is "No", we'd guess you'd be happier doing a walk rated a level lower than the one you’ve just read! As noted previously, we're into FUN so we don't want you to miss out by overdoing it.

 | Photo Gallery

 | Walk description

Starting at Pirnmill, the route begins through some beautiful native woodland of oak, hazel and birch, then follows the gorge of the Allt Gobhlach, passing an impressive waterfall. Gently ascending across heather at first, a steeper climb follows to reach the rocky tor of Beinn Bharrain, then on to Mullach Buidhe, the highest point on the ridge.

From there the walking is a delight; a whaleback ridge reminiscent of a Grampian mountain stretches out before the walker and the terrain, vegetation and location give the impression of a greater altitude. The going is comparatively easy along the ridge, so views of the Arran mountains to the East, the glacial valleys and Loch Tanna and Dubh Loch, and west to Kintyre and Jura can be taken in at leisure.

Before heading down to Meall Donn there is a chance to look down to Coire Fhionn Lochain, a lovely little lochan nestling in a spectacular bowl, a classic glacial feature. The descent has some steep sections over rough pathless ground, but there is a chance to see red deer and enjoy the corries from below. The route crosses some rough, heathery ground for about one kilometer before reaching the path alongside the Allt Gobhlach again.

Route Profile

 | Advised Kit List