Arrochar

The Walks
Arrochar plays host to many of our weekend Scotland trips with some classic mountains easily accessible from the central belt of Scotland. The mountains around here are collectively termed as the 'Arrochar Alps'. This is probably an appropriate description for many features on these mountains do appear alpine.

The most famous mountain of them all is The Cobbler. It has three summits rising in grand fashion from the Narnain Boulders in the east. Only one of these peaks can be reached without a problem, the other two require a head for heights for they demand high grade scrambling to get to these summits. You can, however, admire them from a short distance away for it's only the last few metres that demand climbing.

Beinn Narnain, Beinn Ime and Ben Vane are less spectacular than The Cobbler but still provide good short walks. Interesting routes to take include the south east ridge of Beinn Narnain to negotiate 'The Spearhead'. This gets steep in places; it isn't a scramble but you do see some fine cliffs close at hand. The east ridge of Beinn Ime is apparently by far the best route to its top and although the editor hasn't ascended it. He has, however been told that it involves some scrambling. If you try and tackle two or more of these peaks then you are in for a long walk, otherwise these summits can be all ascended in no hurry assuming easy mountain conditions.

The mountains above have tended to be the most popular but another gem of a mountain that is often overlooked is Beinn an Lochain. This mountain has a very fine north east ridge that includes a traverse of steep crags (via a well worn path) and a fine optional scramble near the top. The editor would certainly recommend this one for it's pitched at just the right level for those who like some mild adventure on the mountains.

Other mountains in the area worth climbing include Ben Vorlich, Ben Donich, The Brack, Beinn Bhuidhe, Beinn Luibhean and Stob Coire Creagach.

Those of you who prefer easier walking will find extensive forest walks to do in the vicinity. In addition to this it may be worth trying some easy walks up some of the glens. Kinglas Water is just one example worth trying.

Accommodation
There was a Youth Hostel here for many years but sadly it fell victim to a round of SYHA cuts in 2002. The nearest Youth Hostel is now Loch Lomond, which is a 30-minute drive away.


 * Ardgartan Campsite is more of a trailer tent and mobile home sort of place but will accept backpackers. When last approached (July, 2012) the latest arrival time was 8.30 pm so you should phone to check if planning on arriving later.


 * Beinglas Farm Campsite is a 20-minute drive away from Arrochar, but convenient for an ascent of Ben Vorlich from Ardlui. It's popular with West Highland Way types and families from the Central Belt. Arrival times are not generally an issue, however, and it does have its own bar if you don't mind paying £3.90 a pint (2012 prices)! The Drovers' Inn is a short walk away.


 * Ochils Mountaineering Club Cottage at Crianlarich is a 30 minute drive away from Ardgartan but very popular so book early.

Eating and Drinking
There's at least one good pub / restaurant in Arrochar. Very hot open fire, nice atmosphere, though a bit cramped when we're all in there with the locals! There is apparently a tea shop in Arrochar as well.

Travel
Six coaches a day operate from Glasgow and stop at Arrochar at Loch Long and Cairndow at Loch Fyne. If you ask the driver nicely he may even drop you off outside the youth hostel. Further details can be found from Scottish Citylink.

Four trains a day stop at Arrochar from Glasgow. Train times can be obtained from Scotrail.

Check out this Map

Trip Report

 * Arrochar 1999 Trip Report