Holy Isle Mountain Walk

A great opportunity to get magnificent views across Arran and parts of the west of Scotland from the highest point of Holy Isle, and to find out about Arran's pioneering No Take Zone and its fascinating underwater life. Run in conjunction with the Community of Arran Seabed Trust (COAST), this walk will provide you with an insight into COAST’s campaigning and marine conservation work, which has resulted in the designation of the South Arran Marine Protected Area.

The island is a Buddhist retreat, so the walking route will be clockwise over the high points of the island returning to the ferry by the shore. Smoking, vaping, alcohol and other drugs are not permitted.

 | Overview

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.

 | Photo Gallery

 | Walk description

Holy Isle, although only three kilometres long, dramatically rises to over 300 metres in height. It is home to Buddhist monks, seabirds, feral ponies, sheep and goats and boasts a diverse history.

Following the ferry crossing, someone from the Buddhist centre will welcome you to the island.

From the pier the route heads uphill, firstly through pasture, woodland and bracken before following a rough path onto open moorland to Mullach Beag, the first top of the day. A further ascent along a broad ridge and onto Mullach Mòr, the highest point on the island, is rewarded with magnificent views across the Clyde and north towards Arran’s mountains. The descent down to the coast is steep, with cliffs on either side.

The much gentler coastal path back to the ferry is dotted with several traditional Buddhist rock paintings.

At the Buddhist centre, there may be the opportunity to purchase refreshments and handmade crafts, as well as explore the organic vegetable garden.

Route Profile

 | Advised Kit List