THE MERRICK VIA THE MURDER HOLE (and Loch Enoch)

This is a demanding mountain walk that includes paths but has sections that are rough and may be boggy. A high level of fitness and experience of high level walking is essential. The final section to the summit of the Merrick is steep.

The party will be transported to the start of this classic walk at Loch Trool, map ref NX415804 just a short walk to Bruce’s Stone overlooking the sight of the Battle of Trool in 1307 that is generally accepted as the start of the campaign towards Scottish independence culminating in victory at Bannockburn in 1314.

A gentle stroll downhill past the interesting castellated Buchan House leads to a signposted path that wends uphill following the Gairland Burn to Loch Valley where the first tantalising views of what lies ahead can be seen. The imposing granite massif of Craignaw and the Dungeon Range overlook the chain of lochs that runs from Loch Doon, in the north to Loch Trool. An attempt to dam Loch Valley was made in the 19th century and some remains can still be seen. The next few kilometres are boggy in wet weather but hopefully May sunshine will keep the path dry. The next loch in the chain is Neldricken with the notorious Murder Hole at its westerly extremity and the high point overlooking it is the ideal spot for morning coffee.

The route goes past Loch Arron and your guide will take you to see the grey Man of the Merrick, one of nature's sculptures. Continuing uphill Loch Enoch (Gaelic Eidheannach; English icy loch) with its sparkling white sand around the shores is a view in itself worth coming to see and the remains of World War 2 crashed aircraft can still be seen.

The usual route from Loch Enoch to the Merrick is a long slog up Redstone Rig but to give a variation this route follows the western side of Loch Enoch towards heading north westerly to the Caldron Burn and the col between Kirriereoch Hill and the Merrick. Another cuppa might be appreciated before the final ascent. From the col the summit of the Merrick is climbed by the Little Spear using a steep but well trodden path and a well-deserved lunch break can be taken following the puffing and panting.

From the highest point in the south of Scotland the views are quite spectacular and in the right conditions Ben Lawers and Scafell Pike can be seen.

The descent is following the tourist path back to the start at Bruce's Stone but even in this relatively easy section you can soak up the peace and quiet and appreciate the changing vistas. The path from Benyellary to the tree line has been improved recently allowing you to keep your feet dry but walking poles are useful. Emerging from the forest the final few hundred metres opens out above Loch Trool the jewel in the chain of lochs and the place that has been called the Cradle of Scotland's Independence.