Arran’s Western Ridge

This linear walk will traverse Arran’s stunning western ridge, more rounded and less visited than the eastern hills, but no less scenic.

Overview

Distance 12km

Highest Point Gained 721m - Mullach Buidhe

Total Ascent 940m

Walk Duration 7hrs

Terrain Some steep ascents and rough pathless terrain on descent.

Technical Rating Moderate

Endurance Rating 3

Cost £25

Date Monday 19th May 2025

Meeting Time 08:45

Meeting Place Festival Hub at the Auchrannie Playbarn. Transport to the start & finish of this walk is provided from
there.

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 to Beinn Bhreac, 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.

Next the walk descends from the ridge down to Coire Fhionn Lochain, a lovely little lochan nestling in a spectacular bowl, a classic glacial feature. From here the route follows the path down to the finish at Thundergay.

This walk is organised by the Arran Mountain Festival, a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation SC 052229, supported by Auchrannie Leisure Ltd.