Castles & Sail an Im

 | 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

The route follows the dramatically tumbling North Sannox burn, initially on a well-made path through plantation forest, then onto open moorland and boggier ground, with the looming rocky mass of Caisteal Abhail (the Castles) dominating the skyline. North Sannox burn and a tributary are eventually crossed to strike up Cuithe Mheadhonach, the Castles’ pathless north ridge, which affords dramatic views of the Witch’s Step ridge to the southeast.

After a final steep uphill pull through jumbles of giant granite tors, the plateau-like top of the Castles is reached. A final clamber onto the large summit tor is rewarded with unsurpassable panoramic views, taking in the whole island and beyond. North beyond Lochranza stretches Loch Fyne, west lie Kintyre and Jura, south-west down the grand Glen Iorsa with Ireland in the distance, and to the south-east are the high tops and steep-sided ridges in the heart of Arran’s northern hills. To the south stands Cir Mhor with the high rocky ridge of A’Chir beyond.

The descent route follows the sweeping ridge of Sail an Im back down towards the plantation and start of the walk, with more spectacular views to take in along the way.

Route Profile

 | Advised Kit List