Walk: Knockdolian – Ailsa Craig’s twin

📌 Colmonnell, South Ayrshire
★★★

The dome of Knockdolian rises above the rolling farmland of southernmost Ayrshire just northeast of Ballantrae. It’s the less celebrated and less dramatic twin of Ailsa Craig (the volcanic island plug to the northwest, pointing the way to Ireland), but let that take nothing away from the enjoyable ascent. Short grass – particularly early in the year – and a road around the foot make the ascent of this 265-metre hill swift and fairly straightforward, with superb views up the River Stinchar, and of course out to Paddy’s Milestone herself. Beware wandering pheasants with poor road sense on the drive to the start.

📷 Chronological photo guide

🌍 Location

📌 Start / finish at track junction on B7044 2 mi west of Colmonell

🧭 O.S. Grid Reference: NX 123851

🛰️ GPS coordinates: 55.125091,-4.944526

🚌 Bus stops just north of B7044 / B734 junction (0.5 mi)

🚗 Space for one or two small cars only – don’t block access

📝 Key info

▶ 3 km / 2 mi | ▲ 230 m | ⌛ 1.5 hr

Features: △ Knockdolian (265 m, sub-2000′ Marilyn)

⬤ Moderate | Minor road, then track for start of ascent. Then very faint, grassy paths – easier to spot on descent! Fairly steep in places.

➡️ Out-and-back walk: start – track junction at 🧭 NX 123849 – gate at 🧭 NX 118850 – Knockdolian – return by outward route (or similar)

Download file for GPS

🥾 On our last visit

Wildlife: Sheep, cows, calfs and lots of pheasants. First cuckoo of spring heard.

Weather: Mostly sunny apart from one stubborn cloud, temperature in high teens.

May 2018