This walk explores the Gaelic place names in the mountains of north Arran and through them, learn about the history and culture of the local people. It is a circular route, which can be walked in both directions. This description runs clockwise, but it could be walked anti-clockwise depending on the leaders’ preference. This walk starts and finishes in North Glen Sannox and climbs steeply to Caisteal Abhail with views over the Clyde and Sannox.
Distance: 9km
Highest point gained: 859m (Caisteal Abhail)
Total ascent: 780m
Walk duration: 8hrs
Terrain: rough mountain paths, some steep sections
Technical Rating: Moderate
Blister Rating: 3
Walk description: This is a mountain walk, but we will be stopping regularly to talk about the Gaelic names. The walk follows the North Sannox Burn before climbing up the steep ridge of Cuithe Mheadhonach to Caisteal Abhail. Great turrets of natural rock mark the top of the mountain, 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 you can see up Loch Fyne, west out over to Jura, south-west looking down the massive Glen Iorsa with Spoon Island and Ireland visible, and to the south and east the high tops and dipping ridges of the Northern hills are visible. Cir Mhor stands to the south with the A'Chir Ridge stretching out beside it. Make sure you bring a camera! The final leg of this walk heads 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
Cost
Gaelic in the Mountains (Gaelic in the Mountains) - £15.00