Holy Isle - Mullach Mòr ascent

Summary

Arran's Holy Isle is a magical place. Owned by the Samye Ling Tibetan Buddhist centre in Galloway and used as a base for courses as well as a home to nuns, the island has a real feeling of peace. This is the more strenous of our two walking options on the island, climbing up to the rocky summit of Mullach Mòr - a real mountain in minature.

Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

Rating

Terrain

Rough footpaths with some minor hands-on scrambling over rocks below the summit of Mullach Mòr. Easier path on return by shore.

Public Transport

Bus to Lamlash, then ferry.

Start

Passenger ferry from Lamlash . Open in Google Maps.

Hillwalking in Winter

Please note that hillwalking when there is snow lying requires an ice-axe, crampons and the knowledge, experience and skill to use them correctly. All route descriptions and difficulties given here are for summer conditions. See our Winter Skills page for basic information on the essential skills, techniques and knowledge needed for winter hillwalking.

Walk Statistics

Distance: 7.5km / 4.75 miles
Time (summer conditions): 3 - 3.5 hours
Ascent: 425m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NS051309

Summits Climbed

Sub 2000: Mullach Mòr

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Accommodation

Walk Description

User reports (5)

Stage 1

Holy Isle dominates Lamlash Bay, and visiting it is one of the best outings you can do from Arran. Boat trips depart from Lamlash Pier through the summer months, dependent on tide and weather conditions, and less frequently in the spring and autumn. The crossing takes only a few minutes, and lands at the jetty at the northern end of the island. On arrival you will be given a talk about the island and walking options, including this route.

Stage 2

Begin the walk by heading straight inland across the grass from the jetty, signed for Mullach Mòr. Pass through a gateway and continue up the grassy field, with gorse on your left, towards the trees ahead. The path passes through a gateway into the native woodland, climbing all the time.

Stage 3

After a stile the trees are left behind and the narrow path continues through the heather - it can be boggy in one or two places. Excellent views open up behind as height is gained, with Arran's magnificent granite mountains in view if the day is clear. The path climbs relentlessly until it reaches a false summit, Mullach Beag. From here Mullach Mòr is seen ahead across a slight dip.

Stage 4

After crossing the dip, the path becomes much rockier for the final ascent to Mullach Mòr, with slight scrambling. The trig point on the summit is reached suddenly, and the views in all directions are simply a sensational mix of mountain and sea.

Stage 5

The descent is very steep and rocky at first and requires great care, especially if the rocks are wet when they can be slippery. The gradient then eases back into heather moorland; stick to the path on this section as there are hidden ravines on either side. You may see the island's white Saanen goats in this area, as well as the brown Soay sheep - an ancient breed which originated on St Kilda.

Stage 6

The rough path eventually meets a grassy one (along the line of telegraph poles) at a t-junction. The return walk to the ferry is to the right, but first make a detour to the left for 350m or so to visit the Pillar Rock Lighthouse, which was the first square lighthouse built by the famous Stevenson lighthouse-building family. There are great views along the very steep eastern side of the island.

Stage 7

Retrace your steps back to the path junction and continue along the grassy path towards the western side of the island, passing below some hobbit-style houses. When the path approaches a fence and gate don't pass through, instead turning right alongside the fence. The complex of buildings inside the fence - including the other lighthouse - are private, home to a small community of buddhist nuns - so please respect their privacy. Eventually the path reaches the coast and curves to the right along it, passing the first of a series of paintings of import Tibetan buddhist figures. Note a prominent rock painted with script of the Tibetan buddhist mantra, 'Om Mani Padme Hum'.

Stage 8

The route passes several more colourful buddhist paintings. Further along, a sign indicates steps up to the cave on the right. This was inhabited by the Christian Saint Molaise who lived as a hermit here in the sixth century and is the reason for the island's name. There are Norse runes on the roof and walls, as well as a cross.

Stage 9

The path continues along the shore to reach The Boathouse, an information centre where you may be able to make a cup of tea or coffee. There are toilets, and just beyond is the the residential retreat centre run by the Samye Ling monastery in Galloway. You can visit part of the garden through the small red gate to the right of the main building, whilst in front as a series of stupas depicting the important teachings of buddhism. Just beyond is the ferry pier for your trip back across to Arran.

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