Goatfell

Goatfell is the highest mountain on the Isle of Arran at 874 metres (2867 feet) and is easily the most popular climb for visitors. On a good day the views from the summit are stunning.

Goatfell

There is always something special about climbing the highest mountain. Whether it be Ben Nevis the highest in Scotland, or the highest in a region, it just seems to draw the crowds.

When the mountain is as spectacular looking as Goatfell and as accessible, then it just calls out to be climbed. It stands out from the moment you pull into Brodick and any fit and capable walker will have it high on his lists of must do's.

Jura on the horizon from Goatfell

Most visitors only have a limited chance to climb the mountain, but if possible wait for a day when the summit is cloud free because the views from the top are spectacular. On a good day you can see Islay and the Paps of Jura and if you are very lucky the coast of Ireland.

I had been waiting a long time before I finally made the ascent. Due to a combination of work commitments, ice and snow and a leg problem all conspiring to stop me, I was getting very frustrated.

My wife climbed up from Brodick the week before me and enjoyed beautiful warm weather but the views from the summit were hazy. The day I finally got to the top the views were well worth the long wait.

Goatfell from Brodick

Goatfell Path from Brodickh

This route is easily the most popular and in Summer can be very busy. It's a clear and easily followed path, but near the summit it becomes steep as you pick your way amongst the rocks. This section has had a lot of work done on it and is now almost a section of rock steps.

If you arriving on the ferry as a foot passenger, it is about a mile long walk along the sea front to get to the main car-parking area by the Arran Brewery, close to Brodick Castle. You could also opt to jump on the 324 bus which passes this way.

From here it is an obvious path all the way to the summit.

Goatfell from Corrie

This route is much less walked but still an excellent walk. The path is signed from the main road right at the start of Corrie village (There is some house building going on close by so be careful not to obstruct access when you park). The 324 bus can also drop you off at the start of the walk.

This route climbs quite steeply through woodland before the gradient eases off. After about 2 miles be careful not to miss the left turn from the path, which crosses over a stream using rocks.

About 15 minutes on from here you will join the Brodick path for the final section to the summit and suddenly encounter all the crowds.

Alternative Route from Corrie

This route follows the route above, but instead of taking the left turn over the stream you can carry straight on and eventually come out between Mullach Buidhe and North Goatfell. From here turn left and follow the path to the summit.

For the more experienced walker you can make Goatfell just one of your summits for the day. There are some great hills out there, though some of them are quite technical.

There are a number of good guidebooks for the island and if you have an Amazon account you can even buy one straight from this website.