Goatfell Mountain From The Isle Of Arran Brewery: 8 Mile There And Back Route

Goatfell, rising to 874 metres (2,867 feet), is the highest peak on the Isle of Arran and a true gem of Scotland’s west coast. Its rugged granite summit offers sweeping views across the island, the Firth of Clyde, and on clear days, even to the mountains of Jura and the Highlands. The most popular hiking route begins at Brodick, following a well-marked trail through woodland and open moor before ascending the mountain’s rocky upper slopes.

Though challenging in places, the climb is manageable for most fit walkers, and the reward from the summit — a stunning panorama over Arran’s dramatic landscape — makes Goatfell one of Scotland’s most memorable and accessible mountain hikes.

We had been looking forward to this one for a while, as has become a bit of a tradition we often end up hiking Scottish mountains for Louise’s birthday. It has also now become a bit of a tradition that we can never see a thing when Louise comes along – it’s almost always foggy, raining, windy, or all three. This trip was no exception. But we loved it just as much as we always do.

Goatfell mountain from Isle of Arran brewery route description

Stage 1 – Isle of Arran Brewery through woodland

From the Isle of Arran brewery there is a path off to the right marked as Goatfell Mountain. Follow this path which takes you through some beautiful woodland. As you emerge from the woodland onto the open moors you will have to cross over several paths. There is nothing tricky here, just keep following the path straight ahead and you can’t go far wrong.

Stage 2 – Open moorland up to Goatfell summit

Keep following the path which will eventually take you up to the summit. The path is mostly rocky uneven terrain, but there are a few flatter sections along the way. At the time of our visit there were works being undertaken to ease erosion along the path – we also threw a few quid in for the ‘path workers beer fund’ as they definitely deserve it. The last section heading up to the summit gets a fair bit steeper and rockier – hopefully you go on a better day than we did and are rewarded with some stunning 360-degree views.

Stage 3 – Goatfell trig point back to Isle of Arran Brewery

Once you’ve enjoyed the views and had the obligatory trig point photos there is just one thing left – to re-trace the steps back down.

Strangely with the terrain being rocky and uneven both me and Louise found the descent to be quite enjoyable – not something we usually say, either. “It’s as if the mountain wants to help you down” was Louise’s comment as we descended through the mist and cloud back towards the brewery.

Where to eat and drink after hiking Goatfell mountain

Once down from the mountain we had a little wander around the gift shops and the headed for The Wineport for some refreshments. There is plenty of outside seating available and inside it is a bistro/cafe vibe – with pleasant attentive staff on hand for your order.

I ordered the deliciously tender lamb curry and a welcome cold pint of lager, and Louise went for a colourful chickpea and roasted vegetable salad and a glass of crisp white wine. The food was terrific, and an hour later we were on our way back to our lodge to get showered and changed.

Got the OS Map App? Follow the route by clicking the link below.

Pics from the peaks – more images from the Isle of Arran