ARRAN meet reports

Our Easter trip to NTS Shorelodge in Brodick on Arran exceeded expectations. The bunkhouse was spacious, warm and welcoming and the location was perfect for getting around the island. Added to this, the amazing warm dry sunny spell allowed lots of quality outings… as reflected in these reports and pictures …….

Well, how to choose a top day amongst a weekend of top days! It’s got to be Goat Fell, approached from Corrie via North Goat Fell.  Although Anne and I have both been to Arran quite a few times, we had never done Goat Fell. The approach from Corrie was very quiet and the views from the ridge into Glen Rosa and of Arran’s other rocky peaks was tremendous. The descent was busy, but as you end up at the brewery there is no cause for complaint. A great day and a great hut meet. ChrisH    

What a great weekend. Every day was my favourite day on Arran because each was so different. But as I was a guest of CMC, I’ll add a photo of Anne Heald on top of Mullach Mor on Holy Isle – overlooking the home of our ancestor Anne Black, who came from Kings Cross near Lamlash. A glorious day, starting with the ferry from Lamlash pier, across the sparkling bay, gentle walking and a wee bit of a scramble to the ridge summit….and then meeting with others from CMC who had come from the other direction. Thank you for inviting me and including me. Susie

Arran and A’Chir Ridge : It was a very enjoyable trip to Arran with the club, and then on to Islay and Jura on my own afterwards. My favourite day was the traverse of A’Chir Ridge, also taking in the summits of Beinn Nuiss, Beinn Tarsuinn and Cir Mhor. Unusually for me I had some company in the shape of Shirley for this scrambly venture and much merriment was found in the twists and turns of the ridge. Where we were mistaken for man and wife on the Cioch Nose last year, had anyone been around to monitor our progress, we could easily have been mistaken for star crossed lovers on this outing. This being due to substantial amounts of hand holding, foot pulling, ankle twisting and more; all in the name of safe progress, but so easily misinterpreted by the casual bystander. And then there was the granite rash, which became evident to the world when I visited the swimming baths today – I fear that Shirley may be sporting the same given the amount of body contact required to overcome some of the obstacles on the route. But with blue skies and a sense of humour, nothing could dampen our spirits, not even me falling off my bike on the ride back out – a truly memorable day! JohnB

Magic weather, cosy accommodation at Brodick Castle Lodge, and the beautiful landscapes of Arran made for a great trip. Horse riding on the beach at Blackwaterfoot was a highlight. Kara H

Who wouldn’t want to climb the amazing slabs and cracks of  Sou’wester Slabs on Cir Mhor?..it’s been on my radar since booking this trip so after much ‘lightweight’ prep, John and I set off early for the delightful walk up Glen Rosa. We arrived in advance of two other parties…no one was in a hurry on such a glorious day! Five pitches of fabulous climbing up dry granite slabs (with a nasty awkward triple chimney pitch near the top), we finished with hours of daylight ahead. A continuation of Labyrinth didn’t appeal (in fact it was strongly suggested that it wouldn’t be to my liking)!.. so taking advantage of the weather and time, John headed up the final 3 pitches of South Ridge Direct. Some route finding problems for the party ahead delayed progress but was no cause for concern. Topping out at dusk, the peaceful walk back down the valley, with head torches, was a perfect ending to another classic rock route day.

Hoping for a return outing before too long !