Based in the Scottish Borders, Eildon Ramblers is a friendlywalking group for people of all ages. We offer year-round walks to suit avariety of tastes.
Note: if the weather does not cooperate, this walk may be delayed until Sunday 29 Sep.
We leave Portpatrick at 9 to arrive via Newton Stewart and Glentrool Village at 10, at the top Glen Trool car park. (Follow signs for Bruce's Stone.)
The walk follows a rocky path up beside the Buchan Burn to Culsharg Bothy, and then through the cleared forest above it to reach open hillside, reaching Benyellery and then the summit of The Merrick, from which there are very distant 360 degree views.
We descend southeast from the summit by Redstone Rig, to visit the rock formation known as the Grey Man of Merrick. We cross from it to the Rig of Loch Enoch, a relatively dry and easy ridge which continues on over Buchan Hill, from which we drop back to the car park. This ridge has views towards the massive Merrick on one side and over lochs and wilderness to the Rhinns of Kells range on the other, and eventually reveals a panoramic view of the beauty of Loch Trool..
The walk is about 9 miles long, with a total ascent of 2800-2900 feet. It is a demanding hill-walk and walkers should be suitably equipped. There will be a lunch stop, and drinks stops as required. The estimated time is around 5 hours.
Further details and photographs of the route of ascent can be found on the walkhighlands website. Several Youtube films can also be viewed. (Please note that, in adverse weather conditions, it might be necessary to return from the summit by the route of ascent.)
This walk is part of our Away Weekend Event, and is fully subscribed by the Event attendees.
Circular walk, grade B+, strenuous. Waterproofs, hiking boots and poles are necessary
Walk leader: Murray
Estimated duration: 5 hours + stops + travel to/from walk start
Depart Portpatrick Hotel and travel to start of walk
