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King's Cave Hike

By François · updated in June 202506/2025My rating

Key facts about the hike

Difficulty
Very easy Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
Duration
1h45 Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
Distance
4.7km
Elevation gain
160m
Type of route
Loop
Maximum altitude
115 m
Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
No
Marked
Partially
Popularity
Moderate
Region
Isle of Arran
Start point
55.53172, -5.33284
Activity
Hiking

Hike overview

The King's Cave hike takes you on a journey of discovery to one of Scotland's most legendary caves, located on the west coast of the Isle of Arran. This circular walk takes you through pine forests, along spectacular sandstone cliffs, and into a cave steeped in history. Legend has it that Robert the Bruce took refuge there in 1307.

Beyond the legend, the site offers breathtaking views of Kilbrannan Sound, the Pirnmill Hills, and the Kintyre Peninsula.

Map and elevation profile of the hike

King's Cave Hike

Difficulties of the hike

At less than 5 km and with only 160 m of elevation gain, this loop route is accessible to most people. The forest trail is in excellent condition and well-maintained, with markings in some places, which is rare in Scotland.

However, be careful on the coastal section; the rocks can be slippery, especially in wet weather.

What you'll love

  • Exploring King's Cave and the surrounding caves with ancient inscriptions carved into the sandstone, steeped in history and legend.
  • The spectacular coastal panoramas of the west coast of Arran, the Pirnmill Hills, and Kilbrannan Sound with views stretching to the Kintyre Peninsula.
Panorama of northern Arran: Pirnmill Hills and Kilbrannan Sound
Panorama of northern Arran: Pirnmill Hills and Kilbrannan Sound
Pirnmill Hills and Machrie Bay
Pirnmill Hills and Machrie Bay
Pirnmill Hills and Machrie Bay
Pirnmill Hills and Machrie Bay
King's cave
King's cave
King's cave
King's cave
Drumadoon Point
Drumadoon Point
King's cave
King's cave
Drumadoon Point
Drumadoon Point
Forest path
Forest path

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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/scotland/kings-cave/