Booking lines for the 2025 Arran Mountain Festival are now open. Click here to book.
For any booking related queries, please contact our bookings provider Arran Adventure on adventure@auchrannie.co.uk or tel. 01770 303347.


Ard Bheinn – Arran’s volcano

Walkers will tackle the highest summits south of the String in territory that deserves to be more visited given its wonderful panoramic views of the northern hills and across Kilbrannan Sound, and their fascinating geology. Participants will learn a little about this volcano of some 60 million years ago, visit a cave and hopefully view some of the local birdlife.

 | Overview

Distance
10km

Highest Point Gained
514m - A'Chruach

Total Ascent
450m

Walk Duration
8hrs

Terrain
No paths, deep heather, steep ascents, steep descent with loose gravel underfoot

Technical Rating
Moderate  
Easy scrambling, elements of exposure, some rough terrain.

Endurance Rating
2  
Long distance, some steep ascent and descent, moderate amount of stamina needed in bursts, suitable for reasonably fit walkers. Have had recent experience of walking for 5-7 hours? Have you recently walked up (and down) hills without physical too much distress? 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.

Cost
£25

Date
Saturday 17 May 2025

Meeting Time
8.30am

Meeting Place

Festival Hub
Transport to the start & finish of this walk is provided from there.

Booking Link

 | Photo Gallery

 | Walk description

This walk starts from the top of The String road at 234m and initially climbs steeply onto more level moorland to reach A’ Chruach at 514m, the highest point of the day and the edge of the ancient volcano. There are no paths so the ground is either very boggy or deep heather and so good quality boots and gaiters will make for a more pleasant experience. If the weather is good the views will be breathtaking and there is a high chance of seeing interesting birdlife. The walk continues around the rim of the volcano and rises steeply to Ard Bheinn and its ancient volcanic history. As walkers descend through deep heather they will visit the cave of Binnein na h-Uaimh and old lime workings before reaching Glenloig on the String road.


Route Profile


 | Advised Kit List

Essential hill gear

  • NO jeans – anyone wearing jeans will not be allowed to start the walk, and no refund will be possible
  • Stout hill walking boots
  • Appropriate walking trousers, top layers and fleece – preferably no cotton layers
  • Waterproof (not showerproof) trousers
  • Waterproof (not showerproof) jacket
  • Spare layers
  • Woollen or fleece hat
  • Gloves
  • Packed lunch and drink - please consider the use of re-useable water bottles and food wrapping.
  • Any personal medicines

Other recommended kit

  • Sun cream and insect repellent
  • Camera
  • Binoculars
  • Spare socks
  • Blister plasters


Booking lines for the 2025 Arran Mountain Festival are now open. Click here to book.
For any booking related queries, please contact our bookings provider Arran Adventure on adventure@auchrannie.co.uk or tel. 01770 303347.