The Castles walk is a circular route running up the ridge on the North side of Glen Sannox. This walk starts and finishes in North Glen Sannox and climbs steeply to the top of Suidhe Fhearghas with its views down over the Clyde and Sannox. The crux of this route is next as you work along the ridge climbing southwest, Ceum na Caillich, The Witches Step.
Distance: 10km
Height ascended: 850m
Walk duration: 8hrs
Technical Rating: Challenging
Blister Rating: 3
Seen from many miles away this deep ‘V’ is one of the most distinctive features of the Arran hills. Up close it is an amazing and exposed place, the north side of the Step is rock climbing territory and this walk will skirt low around on safer ground. A scramble up and out of the Step and moving along the ridge that follows, are the most demanding parts of this route, this is rough mountain walking with some hard scrambling.
The Castles lie at the end of this steep ridge and this, for many, will be the highlight of the walk. Great turrets of natural rock mark the top of Caisteal Abhail, looking like the remains of ancient castles that once guarded the heart of the Arran hills. Some of the best views to be seen on these hills are from here, with a panorama that takes in the whole Island and beyond. North over Lochranza we can see clear up Loch Fyne, West out over to Jura, South West looking down the massive Glen Iorsa with Spoon Island and Ireland visible and South and East the high tops and dipping ridges of the Northern hills. Cir Mhor stands massive to the South with A'Chir Ridge stretching out beside it, make sure you bring a camera!
The final leg of this walk is around Northwards down to Sail an Im and back down to the start.
Advised Kit List
Suggested Hill Clothing
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
Suggested minimum daysac contents
Waterproof (not showerproof) trousers
Waterproof (not showerproof) jacket
Spare fleece (in addition to one being worn)
Spare socks
Woollen or fleece hat
Gloves
Packed lunch and drink
Any personal medicines
Sun cream and insect repellent
Suitability
A good level of fitness is required for steep uphill and downhill rough heathery terrain. Expect some scrambling with use of hands. Minimum age 16 years accompanied by an adult.
What's Included
- Minibus transport from Arran Adventure Centre
- The services of a fully qualified mountain leader
Meeting point
Arran Adventure Centre: located in the grounds of the Auchrannie Spa Resort, at the rear of leisure facilities.
How to make a booking
Make your selection below and proceed through to the secure payment section and your booking will be confirmed by e-mail. Alternatively, please ring the Adventure Centre during normal office hours.
Useful Links
VisitArran - online guide to the Isle of Arran with accommodation listing
Brodick Castle & Country Park - download a trails leaflet
Arran Coastal Way - 64 miles long through inspiration scenery
The Holy Isle - an ancient spiritual retreat and nature reserve
COAST (Community of Arran Seabed Trust) - Stunning images of the seabed and lots of info on Lamlash Bay. Support COAST with free membership!
Forestry Commission for information on walks on the Isle of Arran
A Cicerone Guide, Paddy Dillon 'Walking on the Isle of Arran'
Mountaineering Council of Scotland - a volunteer rescue scheme
Terms & Conditions
Full details of terms and conditions are available on the Arran Mountain Festival website.
Payment is required at the time of booking to guarantee your place. No refunds can be given unless the organisers cancel the walk due to circumstances beyond their control.
Cost
Adult/Teen (16+) - £15.00