Cnoc Coinnich

On our Bank Holiday Friday my mum and I decided to make the most of the extra day on our weekend and the early Autumn sunshine to go a hike. Our pick was Cnoc Coinnich, a hidden peak among some more well known hills like The Cobbler and Ben Donich. We parked the car at Ardgarten Visitor Centre, just past Arrochar. As you enter the visitor centre drive over the bridge and continue to the left until it leads you to the Coilessan Events car park.

From the car park the walk begins through the locked gate and cross over the burn. Continue a short distance until the Coilessan Glen signpost where you make a turn to the right. From here the clear path continues to climb through some conifers with views of the mountains all around.

Continue on straight, ignoring a cycle path on the left. The walk is constantly climbing but is not too steep at this stage and the path is clearly marked. Leave the main path at the signpost for Lochgoilhead 6km and follow a more rough up and down path over two footbridges. Then it is time for the proper climb which follows the side of the burn. This is the steepest part of the walk and I don't feel ashamed to say we took a brief break half way up to catch our breath and admire the views.

At the top of this ascent is a fence with a style to climb over. We saw 3 sheep in this area but they quickly wandered off after our arrival. There is no path for the last part of the climb but continue straight, looking out for the cairn marking the summit. Parts of the hilltop are a bit boggy so take care to try and avoid these.

Once at the cairn it is time to appreciate the views of the surrounding mountains and lochs. There is also a small lake at the top of the hill. We crouched at the cairn to take pictures, admire the sights and shelter from the strong wind. Although it was a calm September day at the top of Cnoc Coinnich the wind was very strong and standing was even difficult. The beauty of this walk was how remote it felt, considering how close it is to Arrochar, Tarbet and the hussle of Loch Lomond. We didn't pass another person and from the summit no signs of modern Scotland could be spotted, apart from some far off cottages. I'd recommend this walk on a clear day to really take advantage of the surrounding views, but I think it would be perfect for any season. We returned by the same route, feeling the buzz of having accomplished something with our Friday.

The Facts on climbing Cnoc Coinnich:

• Starting point is from the Coilessan Events car park in the Ardgarten Visitor Centre, just past Arrochar.
• Nearest public toilets are at the start of Ardgarten Visitor Centre and are free.
• Climbing Cnoc Coinnich takes around 2hours 30mins- 3hours.
• Distance is 6miles/ 9.5km.
• Difficult points: Steep climb by the burn up to the hilltop; strong winds at the summit.
• Wear: Hiking/ hill walking boots and perhaps bring a hat or hairband if you have long hair as the winds at the top are very strong.
• Perfect for those who want a bit of a challenge, and seek the reward of stunning views that are rarely seen by others. Remember to add your stone to the cairn!