This linear walk leads along a rugged shoreline below impressive cliffs with the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife at close quarters. The return is made the same way.
Bog Factor
Metalled road, then rough tracks and beach.
Car park at west end of Kildonan.
Bus to Kildonan.
NS021209
The walk begins from a car park adjacent to a prominent roadside rocky outcrop. Head west along the road, passing a war memorial embedded in the rock, to reach a minor road branching left as the main road turns sharply inland. Take this track to the end, and continue beyond through a gate and onto a narrower footpath. Watch out for the first of a series of dramatic waterfalls tumbling over the escarpment on the right.
The igneous dykes are very much in evidence at this point, projecting from the sandy beach into the surf and often capped by members of Arran's large colony of Common Seals. Pass an interpretive board outlining details of the varied wildlife found in the area and follow the path across the grassy raised beach corralled by steep cliffs to the right and the rocky beach to the left .
The rockpools in the intertidal area of the beach are a unique habitat for crabs, anemones and various seaweeds, and there is always the possibility of a basking shark cruising close to shore in the pursuit of summer plankton blooms. Take care not to disturb wildlife on the shoreline, including waders and seals.
Turn around before reaching the boulderfield forming Struey Rocks - the going becomes quite difficult and detracts from the easy terrain of the rest of the walk.
You could use a signed path up to the main road and return along that, but it is more enjoyable to simply retrace your steps. Returning east affords panoramic views to Pladda Island and lighthouse, with the hulk of Ailsa Craig beyond - home to a huge colony of gannets and the source of countless curling stones crafted from the blue hone granite. Continue back to the car park.
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