Nobody could be bothered to turn up so I can't be bothered to do a meet report.

Attendees: Annie, Hecla and me.

Arran

"Here the climber is surrounded by a chaos of rock and boulder, soaring summits, frowning precipices and startling pinnacles, that represent a perfect paradise in which to exercise their favourite pursuit. The peaks of Caisteal Abhail and Ceum na Caillich, as seen from the shores of Sannox in wild and misty weather, have a fearful look of life about them, like the primeval sea-monsters tossing their heads in the air."

Extract taken from The Granite peaks of Arran by W. Douglas

The Isle of Arran is the most southerly Scottish island and sits in the Firth of Clyde between Ayrshire and Kintyre. Although only 19 miles long by 10 miles wide it has a remarkable diversity of landscapes and seascapes.

Getting There

There is a regular Ferry service from Ardrossan to Brodick; one of which I will be taking on Friday 2nd May and returning to the mainland on Tuesday, May 6th.

To cross from Ardossan to Brodick you will need to book with Caledonian MacBrayne

See www.calmac.co.uk http://www.calmac.co.uk for timetable and fares

Booking Hotline 08000 66 5000

Taking your car across is not cheap and you are advised to book early if you intend to do this. I would recommend leaving your car on the mainland and travel across as a foot passenger (£8.95). There is a good bus service which coincides with the arrival of the ferry, see below in Campsite and Location section.

Bus services on Arran including Brodick. For details contact traveline tel: 0871 200 22 33.

Campsite and Location

Our campsite is the Glen Rosa site near to Brodick; it is sited over a very large area of natural ground; the location is exceptional (Site of Special Scientific Interest), next to the Glen Rosa track, which leads to the Arran Hills with access to some excellent climbing, scrambling, walking, including the highpoint of, Goatfell.

The Glen Rosa site is the only one in Brodick; Glen Rosa is two miles (3km) outside of the village. It takes roughly 40 minutes to walk from the pier, however there is a good bus service. Buses coincide with the arrival of the ferries from both Brodick and Lochranza. Ask the driver to stop at the Glen Rosa road.

From Brodick Pier, turn right into Brodick village and continue past the co-op, the guest houses, golf club and Heritage Museum at the junction carry on straight ahead following the signs to Blackwaterfoot, 100 yards on the right is the Glen Rosa track. Book in at the farmhouse (first house on the left immediately on the roadside after the bridge.)

The facilities are very basic, wash hand basins, toilets and bins. Cold, drinkable water is available. There is no hot water, showers or electric hook ups.

• Telephone: 01770 302380
• £3.50 per person per night.
• Dogs are permitted by permission but must be tethered.
• Campfires are allowed if care is taken.
• Discounts available for Children.
• Very limited parking available.
• No separate charge for cars, dogs or tents.
• Two and half miles from Brodick pier.
• One and half miles to the nearest pub/restaurant.
• No need to book in advance, except for large groups.
• Noisy groups are not welcome and will be removed.
• Waterproofs and insect repellents are advised.

If people let me know their interested nearer the time then I can coordinate car sharing etc.