Goat Fell, at 874 metres, is the highest point on Arran and the most popular hill walk on the island. The standard route starts from Brodick Castle and climbs steadily through woodland and open moorland to the granite summit ridge, a round trip of about 8 kilometres taking three to four hours for a reasonably fit walker.
The summit views on a clear day are exceptional: north to Ben Nevis, south to the Mull of Kintyre, east to the Ayrshire coast and the Clyde, and west to the Kintyre peninsula. The ridge connecting Goat Fell to its satellite peaks — North Goat Fell and Cir Mhòr — is an exhilarating scramble for those who want more. Paths are well-defined but the upper sections can be wet; waterproofs and proper footwear are essential.