Description

With its unique geological features and proximity to Scotland's 2 largest cities, the Cobbler (sometimes referred to as Beinn Artair, or Ben Arthur) is one of the most oft-completed hikes in the southern Highlands.

The path to the summit of the peak has been improved significantly in recent years, and it's now very well established and easy to follow, even in bad weather.

That said, conditions can be wild on the upper part of the Cobbler, so simply surviving up there can be a challenge, even if navigation is relatively simple! The hike begins as a designated carpark off the A83 at Succoth and the initial zig zags up the trail are a nice warmup, but not overly interesting.

Things improve significantly when you enter the Alth A' Bhalachain valley immediately east of the Cobbler's summit. Climb gently up the valley, enjoying the ever-improving views of the Cobbler's famous rock features as you approach them.

Midway up the valley you'll pass the impressive Narnain boulders and these make for a good lunch stop. When the path splits, just after the river also splits, take the left hand branch and begin climbing increasingly steeply via a rocky gully and a series of stone steps to reach the Cobbler's summit ridge.

Tag the top and sit for a while to study the extraordinary natural features on the peak. Descend by heading north on a much easier trail than the ascent route, and then descend the upper section of the Alth A' Bhalachain to rejoin the initial part of the hike.