Darvel - Loudoun Hill - Darvel

Derek Smith

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This is an excellent walk for the experienced hiker giving magnificent and breath-taking views of the Irvine Valley and surrounding countryside. It's a return route, allowing you to again experience the enjoyment of these views on the way back. The paths are partly excellent and partly adequate; with some sections likely to be quite boggy in winter. There are no kissing gates but lots of stiles (see photo on the right), all of them in good order but most of them are not dog friendly. Although not very high; the hill itself is a bit of a challenge and some very steep scrambling is required so the final part of this walk and should only be undertaken if you are reasonably fit and agile. The hill is a 60m high volcanic plug with rock cliffs on one side; it stands above moorland and commands 360 degree views. On clear days the coast, 40km away, and the Isle of Arran beyond, are visible. The hill is a popular rock climbing venue, being one of a small number of rocky outcrops in central Scotland.

The walk is suitable for teenagers, fit senior citizens and anyone in-between. Excellent for dogs as long as you can lift them over stiles, but hopeless for wheelchairs and buggies. Suitable footwear will be boots and except for the horse flies in summer, there should be no problems for anyone wearing shorts. Unfortunately, there are no refreshments or any facilities on your route; but as you return from your parking place onto the A71 turn left and a short distance along the main road is a pub and visitor's centre with toilet, café and meals.

Scotland - South Scotland - Ayrshire and Arran - Countryside