Goatfell

Goatfell is the highest point on the Isle of Arran at 874 metres, rising behind Brodick Castle with a summit view over the island, the Firth of Clyde and Jura, Ben Lomond and, on a clear day, Ireland. The National Trust for Scotland cares for 2,400 hectares of the mountain and its neighbours, granite ridges and corries with dwarf juniper, heather, tiger beetles and emperor moths, golden eagles and buzzards overhead, and red deer on the slopes. The main path starts from Cladach car park by the brewery near the castle and climbs steadily for around three to five hours there and back, with the rockier route over North Goatfell from Glen Rosa or Corrie for scramblers. Reviewers say it is a challenge worth every step and that the Corrie route has one tricky scramble. Tips from visitors: pick a clear day or you will see nothing, wear proper boots, keep dogs close in lambing and calving season, and Brodick Castle has the nearest toilets and refreshments.