Sail Chalmadale, from Dougarie

Summary

This rough moorland ascent climbs to the lonely summit of a granite-studded peak via Glen Iorsa, one of Arran's quieter corners.

Grade

Bog Factor

3.5/5

Rating

Terrain

Good path then estate tracks initially, then very rough moorland. There are two shallow concrete fords to cross.

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.

Getting there

Start

Layby at NR881369, Dougarie.

Public Transport

Bus will stop on request.

Start Grid Ref

NR881369

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 10.5km / 6.5 miles
Time (summer conditions): 5 - 5.5 hours
Ascent: 490m (Profile)

Summits Climbed

Sub 2000: Sail Chalmadale

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Walk Description

User reports (2)

Stage 1

The walk begins from the parking layby on the seaward side of the A841 at NR881369 (there is no access via Dougarie Lodge). Take the tarred track that leads inland opposite the layby. After 200m the track turns left towards High Dougarie; leave it here and instead ascent the very rough rocky steps straight ahead, signed as a footpath. After the steps the route becomes easier, on a grassy path between a fence and a drystane dyke. Further on the path becomes wooded, then open again as it leads through bracken. There are views over the green fields of Dougarie Lodge below to the right.

Stage 2

Eventually the path descends to meet the main track up the glen, now safely beyond Dougarie. Almost immediately there is a shallow concrete ford to cross - this may require a paddle depending on the water level. Continue along the easy track beyond. Ignore a footbridge over the main river off to the right, and continue up the glen, eventually passing through a gate in a deer fence.

Stage 3

Beyond this another ford is reached, this time over the Scaftigill Burn. After crossing the ford the route leaves the track - instead turn left by some boulders to head across the moor over to the right of the burn - you may be able to find a faint path. Continue parallel to the burn for a short distance before meeting a faint ATV track that aids the ascent up the otherwise very tussocky hillside.

Stage 4

When the path splits, and a more obvious path contours around to the left, ignore it to instead aim northeast up onto the main shoulder of Sail Chalmadale. Though there is no path for a time, it does reappear, though nothing can alter the fact this is very rough and heavy going. Loch Sail Chalmadale is reached at 230m, around 3.5km after leaving the track.

Stage 5

There is now a more obvious though boggy path to continue on upwards, with the slabby summit of Sail Chalmadale looming ahead. Continue towards the foot of the granite slabs, then bear right over pathless ground to avoid bypass them and instead makean awkward climb through the bouldery slopes. The slope eventually eases on the small heathery summit plateau, and an easy path leads through the boulders to the summit cairn at 480m.

Stage 6

There are extensive views over much of Arran and across to Kintyre. The return route is by retracing your steps back down into Glen Iorsa. Upon reaching the main track you could detour to the left to visit the boathouse at Loch Iorsa; otherwise turn right to head right back down to the start on the coast.

Photos 4 & 5: Phil Turner

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