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Strathtay Ramblers Climb The Cobbler

Last year, while cruising on Loch Lomond to the start of a walk from Rowardennan, Strathtay Ramblers gazed at the distinctive outline of The Cobbler and decided to mount an expedition in 2008.  So it was that, on Saturday 10 May, again in good weather, a dozen Ramblers set off to make the climb.

Although at 2891 feet, The Cobbler (Ben Arthur ) is not a Munro, the  3-4 hour ascent begins at sea level from where the dramatic North and South peaks are said by some to resemble the fangs of a monster, although the more prosaic notion that the north peak resembles a cobbler bending over his last gives the mountain its familiar name. Had it been named more recently, it might have been tagged ‘The Lap-Topper’.

The greater part of the ascent is up an easy path passing the massive Narnain Boulders, but the last 200 feet or so is a bit of a scramble, which justifies the designation of this outing as a Grade A walk.

Once reaching the saddle between the two peaks, sensible members of the party rested over lunch then walked up the path to the top of the cobbler’s head to savour the tremendous views past Loch Long towards Ben Lomond. A few gluttons for punishment also scaled the higher south peak, which is accessed via a crack in the pinnacle - ‘the eye of the needle’.  And after a day on this iconic mountain, what better than a relaxing drink at the equally iconic Drovers Inn!  (Report by Bill Bruce)

Most of the Ramblers outings are less challenging. The next is Newton Bridge to Amulree on Sunday 22 June, 9.30 a.m. start from Old Church Car Park, Crieff Rd.  Contact David Parmley on 01887 829503 for details.