A straightforward but long hike takes in the beauty of the Arrochar Alps from Beinn Ime, which you can enjoy again from a distance in the Eir Sauna with views across Loch Long.
Beinn Ime is the highest of the Arrochar Alps, a cluster of mountains around the heads of Loch Long, Loch Fyne and Loch Goil. Many walkers never make it to the summit, choosing instead to veer off and explore the otherworldly rock formations atop The Cobbler. However, the exquisite views of the Cowal Peninsula are sublime on a clear day, and it’s a worthy out-and-back that can be made more intrepid by incorporating the Cobbler and a second Munro, Beinn Narnain.
Beinn Ime + Eir Sauna: route description
Start/finish: Succoth car park (NN294048) | Map: OL39 Loch Lomond North | Distance: 15.5km / 9.6 miles | Ascent: 1,019m / 3,343ft | Duration: 5 – 7 hours | Difficulty: 3/5
1. NN294049: From Succoth car park, cross the A83 to join the well-signed trail and begin a steep switchback through the forest.
2. NN289047: At a trail junction marked by a bench, turn left for about 50m, then take the trail to the right and climb steeply until you break clear of the trees after 2km. Now the grade mellows, and it’s a straight shot up the glen for another 2.5km.
Two hikers heading up Beinn Ime with the Cobbler (R) and Beinn Narnain (L) in the background. Credit: Julia Clarke
3. NN261066: At the bealach between Beinn Narnain on your right and the Cobbler on your left, take the path on the right NE, then turn left at the fork to begin your ascent of Beinn Ime. Cross over a fence and continue the steady climb NW more or less straight up the broad slope to Beinn Ime summit for another 3km.
4. NN255085: Return the way you came, passing straight through the trail junction at the bealach unless you intend to take in The Cobbler or Beinn Narnain.
Jack and Rebecca, owners of Eir Sauna, looking across Loch Long at the Cobbler. Credit: Julia Clarke
THE WEE HEAT: Eir Sauna, Arrochar
A five-minute drive away, Eir Sauna occupies a privileged spot on the eastern shore of Loch Long on the grounds of Rossmay House, and draws many hikers and returning visitors from Skye. Named for the Norse goddess of healing, it was opened by former mental health nurse Rebecca Marshall to help people experience connection and cold water immersion. This pleasing barrel-shaped sauna treats you to views of the Arrochar Alps, visiting neighbourhood otters and your choice of a bucket dunk, plunge bath or the sea loch.
Jack using the plunge bucket outside Eir Sauna. Credit: Julia Clarke
For more summit-to-sauna Munro days, see Julia Clarke’s guide to the best in Scotland.
