Dunan - the Camel's Hump, Ardnadam

Climb through the Atlantic Oakwoods past an archaeological site to reach the hilltop of Dunan - locally known as the Camel's Hump - for its superb views over Dunoon, the Clyde and the Holy Loch.

Terrain

Woodland paths, can be muddy in winter, tracks and a fairly steep final ascent path.

Public Transport

Bus to Sandbank.

Start

Car park near Sandbank. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 4.5km / 2.75 miles
Time: 1.5 hours
Ascent: 182m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NS161796

Maps / GPS

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Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

There is a dedicated parking area for this walk signed as a picnic and walking area up a track from the A885 in Sandbanks. To reach the car park, turn left part way along the track and the car park is on the right hand side just before the barrier. Begin the walk by passing the barrier and turning left at the information board. The path climbs gently into the oakwoods, a small remnant of the great forest that would once have clothed much of this area.

Stage 2

The path, which is excellent at first, undulates through the woods and crosses a couple of small wooden bridges to reach the Ardnadam enclosure. This is an archaeological site that was in use for over 5,000 years. The only structure visible to the layman are the scant remains of a chapel at just 1,000 years old. The site of an iron-age house, 2,000 years old, and a rectangular 5,000 year old neolithic house are marked out by short posts. There are several information boards giving information on the settlers who once lived here.

Stage 3

The walk continues in the same direction, soon crossing a wooden footbridge (currently missing) over an attractive burn, heading through a gap in a drystone dyke and up some steps. Pass a bench and ignore a path leading off to the right, continue ahead. The path leads through a few muddy patches.

Stage 4

Eventually a forest track with a sharp bend is seen down to the left - head down to the track and turn right along it. It gently slopes uphill before swinging sharp right and then back left to continue the climb up a zig-zag. There are good views down to Loch Loskin.

Stage 5

Eventually a sign is reached indicating the 'Heritage Trail' path off to the right for the climb to Dunan. This climbs more steeply, with good views opening up back over Dunoon and the Clyde. The path passes passing a large boulder before reaching the grassy summit of Dunans, marked by a stone plinth.

Stage 6

This is a superb viewpoint, with the views taking in the Holy Loch and the mouth of Loch Long as well as across the Clyde as it merges with the sea. Retrace your steps all the way back down to the track and along the path to return to the start.

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