Balnakailly circuit, Rhubodach

Summary

This waymarked circuit from the Rhubodach ferry explores the northernmost part of Bute. The walk climbs up through beautiful deciduous woodland to visit a deserted farm. It then continues up to reach a fine viewpoint overlooking the Kyles. The return is on forestry tracks and then on the road by the shore.

Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

3.75/5

Rating

Terrain

Waymarked path, some very muddy sections on the ascent through the woods. Forest track then tarmac road for the return.

Public Transport

Rhubodach ferry terminal is served by bus.

Start

Rhubodach ferry jetty. Open in Google Maps.

Walk Statistics

Distance: 6.25km / 4 miles
Time: 1.5 -2 hours
Ascent: 143m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NS027742

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Accommodation

Walk Description

User reports (2)

Stage 1

The walk begins from the Rhubodach ferry terminal, where there is parking. The ferry here links Bute to Colintraive on the Cowal peninsula and is the shortest crossing to the island, taking only 5 minutes. Begin the walk by heading up the track at the north end of the tarmac.

Stage 2

Pass through a gate and follow the rutted track as it leads west along the shore above Balnakailly Bay. A burn forces it to bend left; cross a very boggy area to reach a gate giving access to a signed path into the woods.

Stage 3

The path crosses a footbridge and then keeps to the right of a burn, climbing uphill. There are a few very boggy sections but the mix of deciduous trees are very beautiful. Eventually the track reaches a denser stretch of forestry - head straight through this to emerge into more open woodland. Just beyond are the ruins of Balnakailly Farm, thought to have been abandoned in the 1860s.

Stage 4

The path keeps left of the farm and ascends to eventually reach a grassy turning area in the forest with a three-way signpost. The circuit goes straight ahead here (signed for West Island Way), but first take the path signed to the right for the 'WWII Bunker'. This path - very muddy in places - leads through the trees to eventually emerge at a fantastic viewpoint bench overlooking the Kyles of Bute. The concrete bunker - a short distance below - was one of several used to control decoy lights designed to fool German bombers into thinking the area was a valuable airfield.

Stage 5

Return along the path to the grassy turning area, and this time leave along the grassy track to the right. This soon reaches a t-junction - turn left here, following the West Island Way down through the trees. Ignore a signed path to the right, and further on - when the West Island Way track goes off to the right - curve left to continue downhill.

Stage 6

The track leads down to a gate and leaves the forest, reaching the main road just beyond. Turn left to follow the road close by the shore to return to the Rhubodach ferry.

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