We decided to tackle Beinn Bhuela as from our home in Greenock it appeared to be snow-free, unlike the Arrochar Alps. This turned out to be incorrect!
Parking in Lettermay follow the forest track, taking the second turn on right to the new forest road (not yet shown on maps). Following track over footbridge to waterfall. The route is part of the Cowal Way.
Following track marked by white posts up past waterfall and along stream, eventually reaching Curra Lochain.
Continued south up slopes of Beinn Bhreac.
A little light scrambling is required to reach top.
From Beinn Bhreac snowy summit of Caisteal Dubh is clear to see.
After some careful scrambling up Caisteal Dubh, dodging the worst of the snow, there is a final 300m trudge up snowy but easy slopes to the summit. On the way up snowy footprints of a human and canine were the only signs of anyone else we saw all day.
We had originally intended to continue south to Creag Sgoilte and Ceann Garbh and descend to Lochan nan Cnaimh but poor visibility and bad reports on return route through firebreak in forest put us off.
Instead descended down easier slopes past Creag a Bhuic thus avoiding worst of the crags. Eventually reaching Cowal Way and returning by same route.
Nice walk on a very rugged and little climbed mountain.
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.