This circuit through a wooded glen reveals Glenashdale Falls - the most dramatic waterfall on Arran - as well as an Iron Age fort.
Metalled roads and rough tracks
Bus to Whiting Bay
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Southern end of Whiting Bay alongside the Coffee Pot restaurant.. Map and directions.
There is space to park alongside the Coffee Pot restaurant in Whiting Bay, though the excellent bus service will also stop at this location. Walk uphill past the restaurant on the metalled road as it winds through the houses. Head straight across at a signposted junction and continue along the road as it becomes an unsurfaced vehicle track. Pass through a series of gates to enter the woodland and cross a burn via a series of large regular stepping stones. Follow the path as it heads uphill into the forest before taking a turning on the left signposted 'Glenashdale Falls via Iron Age Fort'.
The path through the trees isn't particularly easy to follow in overcast conditions, but eventually arrives at a viewpoint overlooking the glen and distant falls. Turn around and take the path forking left to cross a footbridge and arrive at the Iron Age Fort with interpretation board.
Continue along the path after exploring the ruins and follow the green and white marker posts to reach the north side of the falls. Cross the footbridge immediately above the falls and turn left down the other side of the valley to reach a wooden viewing platform jutting out over the glen offering a spectacular view of the falls.
Continue along the track ignoring any minor paths leaving the main route - though after around 1.5km there is the option of visiting the Giants' Graves at a signposted junction. This is a steep climb up over 300 wooden steps to a clearing containing 'horned gallery graves' - a type of chambered cairn from the Neolithic period. Continue along the main path alongside the burn to reach a wider track which eventually reaches the main road at the shore. Turn left to return to the start.
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Walking can be dangerous and is done entirely at your own risk. Information is provided free of charge; it is each walkers' responsibility to check it and navigate using a map and compass.
