I've been down to the hills above Largs twice in recent weeks, hoping to climb the Hill of Stake. First time my ribs & knees were not up to it, the second I became distracted & lost in a fog of memory. Now, against my better judgement, it was time for some desperate bagging, ach sometimes you just have to do it, even if it is a crime.
Finished nightshift, caught train to Largs, went as directly as possible over Hill of Stake & down to Lochwinnoch, pathless till Misty Law where you catch a track - higher up still a fine frosty crust to the bogs, gloriously sunny early on, the last miles were a struggle but had a great sleep once home - the sleep of a justified sinner.
Station to station I would guess over 12 miles and over 700m of ascent.
Warning
Please note that hillwalking when there is snow lying requires an ice-axe, crampons and the knowledge, experience and skill to use them correctly. Summer routes may not be viable or appropriate in winter. See winter information on our skills and safety pages for more information.