Description

Ben Vane (Scottish Gaelic – A' Bheinn Mheadhain) is a Scottish Munro (by 3 metres) situated between Beinn Ìme (1,011m) and Ben Vorlich (943m) to stand firm as stubborn, rocky mountain that can put up a fight on the ascent.

As with Ben Vane’s neighbours, it belongs to the Arrochar Alps, which are a group of mountain near the villages of Arrochar and Lochgoilhead on the Cowal Peninsula in Argyll and Bute. As of the publishing of this guide, the authorities have put up many signs regarding parking issues at the start point of this hike, be aware.

If concerned, park at Inveruglas visitor centre just a little further north down the A82.

The walk starts off following the road that runs parallel to Inveruglas water.

Pass some rural farms before the hike starts bending to the right.

Follow the GPX file to where it turns a sharp left and over a bridge.

As you cross the bridge look slightly to the right of you and up.

This is Ben Vane.

A couple hundred metres passed the bridge the path splits in two with the left taking you up the Glen and the right taking you up Ben Vane.

Be prepared for a sustained climb and numerous false summits.

It’s taxing on both mind and body but see it as good training for tackling the bigger mountains in the area.

At the top you’ll be provided with great views of Ben Ìme and Ben Vorlich across the valley.

Make sure to pick up a nearby rock of whatever size and place it on the cairn.

This pleases the mountain Gods. After a selfie and sandwich, you have two options.

You can retrace your steps back down the route you took up (as the GPX file shows), or you can drop off the eastern side of Ben Vane to ascend Ben Ìme from its western flank.

Bear in mind this will add some considerable time onto the hike and be conscious of daylight hours. This hike and guide were completed during spring weather conditions.

This is just one opinion of this route.

Make sure to do your own research by consulting local internet resources, mountain guides or guidebooks to evaluate other opinions so you can be best prepared for the terrain. A Guide by Red