The highest peak in Cowal (741 metres) offers wonderful views of Loch Eck, the Clyde Estuary and north and west to the Highlands and islands.
Park at the small car park at the top of the Glen Massan road just beyond Stonefield Farm.
(D/A) Follow the unsurfaced road through the Glen Massan estate for about three kilometres.
(1) Two metres beyond a stone cottage, the track crosses the River Massan and beyond the bridge, a path is signposted for walkers up to the right. This is where the real climb begins. The path climbs quite steeply as it passes through mature conifer forest and finally leads you to the open moorland above.
(2) Continue to climb through open (boggy) grassland to the ridge in front of you. From the ridge are wonderful views of the Clyde estuary to Ben Cruachan and the islands. The ridge continues to the summit.
(3) You are now at the highest peak in Cowal : Beinn Mhor. The most straightforward return route is to retrace your steps. (D/A)
Waypoints :
D/A : mi 0 - alt. 243ft - Car park
1 : mi 1.32 - alt. 312ft - Signpost
2 : mi 3.23 - alt. 1578ft - Open grasslands
3 : mi 4.45 - alt. 2402ft - Beinn Mhor - Beinn Mhor
D/A : mi 8.91 - alt. 243ft - Glen Massan road
Uneven hill path with some boggy ground. A climb of 700m. Boots essential.
Walkers should wear walking boots and suitable clothing and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
The upland area is used for hill grazing. Please keep your dog under control at all times.
This walk passes through farmland, forests and moorland. The initial walk section is an ideal walk for all the family. Why not stop off at the beautiful and spectacular Massan Falls at the start of this walk.
By public transport : Get the train to Gourock station, which is a 3-minute walk to the ferry terminal, where Argyll Ferries sail from Gourock to Dunoon. When you arrive in Dunoon, Castle Gardens bus stop is around a 2-minute walk from the ferry terminal. Here take the 489 service (West Coast Motors) bus to Benmore Botanic Gardens. For more details visit the Traveline Scotland website.
By car & ferry :
• Travel to McInroy’s Point just west of Gourock and take the car ferry with Western Ferries to Hunters Quay. Take the A815 westwards following signs for the Botanic Gardens.
• Or take the A82 north to Loch Lomond. Turn onto the A83 at Tarbet and change to the A815 at Strachur. After passing Loch Eck on your right follow signs for the Botanic Gardens (approximately 1hr45min, 75 miles).
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Visorando and this author cannot be held responsible in the case of accidents or problems occuring on this walk.
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