A beautiful hike from Brodick which follows the Glenrosa Water deep into the tranquillity of the Glen to ‘The Saddle’ before returning via the same route.
Description
(S/E) From Brodick Ferry Terminal turn right (North West) to cross a footbridge then onto the pavement along the A841.
Continue on A841 through Brodick past the shops, library, golf course and heritage museum.
(1) After 2km the road bends sharp right and at this point you should turn left (West) onto The String road.
(2) 120m along The String road turn right (North), signposted "Glen Rosa".
(3) Keep right at a fork to pass some cottages and arrive at Glen Rosa Campsite approx 1km along the road.
Follow a track along the edge of the campsite, meeting up with the Glenrosa Water a little further along. The river should be on your right-hand side.
(4) After 2.3km cross a footbridge over a tributary to the Glenrosa Water
Keep right after crossing the bridge. A short distance further ignore two paths on the right which lead to the Glenrosa Water, instead continue ahead (North).
(5) Keeping the river on your right-hand side, continue North for 2.5km. At this point, just before you start walking uphill, look out for a fork. Keep right (North) at the fork, keeping the Glenrosa Water close to your right-hand side.
(6) From here, around 1.5km of steep ascent awaits to reach The Saddle (271m of ascent) where you can enjoy the view down into Glen Sannox.
Return to Brodick Ferry Terminal via the same route (S/E)
Waypoints
- S/E : km 0 - alt. 7 m - Brodick Ferry Terminal
- 1 : km 2.1 - alt. 13 m - The String road
- 2 : km 2.25 - alt. 27 m - Follow sign for Glen Rosa
- 3 : km 3.39 - alt. 24 m - Glen Rosa Campsite
- 4 : km 5.74 - alt. 50 m - Footbridge
- 5 : km 8.58 - alt. 159 m - Fork - keep right
- 6 : km 10.3 - alt. 425 m - The Saddle
- S/E : km 20.59 - alt. 7 m - Brodick Ferry Terminal
Useful Information
For more information and a walk review visit Gillian's Walks
The track up Glen Rosa is very well maintained and well-trodden, starting off wide and dry and becoming narrower and boggier the further into the glen you go. The northern section to reach The Saddle is steep and once on The Saddle you are very exposed.
Proper hiking boots essential. Map and compass recommended especially if visibility is poor. Note that in winter conditions, crampons and ice axe may be required. Conditions on the Scottish hills can change suddenly so always carry spare clothing and food/drink supplies.
Variation to the route
It is possible to vary this walk by going over The Saddle, scrambling down a very steep section known as "The Chimney" and walking along Glen Sannox (5km long). Arriving into Sannox, you could use the local bus service to return to Brodick 12km away.
Shortening the route
You can shorten the route by using the local bus service to go between Brodick Ferry Terminal and Arran Heritage Museum - this cuts off 1.8km each way.
Always stay careful and alert while following a route. Visorando and the author of this walk cannot be held responsible in the event of an accident during this route.
During the walk or to do/see around
- Shops, cafes and accommodation in Brodick
- Brodick Castle & Country Park
- Arran Chocolate Factory
- Brodick Bay
- Auchrannie Hotel & Spa
- Brodick Golf Course
- Arran Heritage Museum
- The Fisherman's Walk
- Arran Brewery
- Arran Cheese Shop
- Arran Aromatics
- Mountains: Goatfell, North Goatfell, Cir Mhor, Beinn Nuis, Beinn Tarsuinn
