Alternative routes, splitting the main route into 2 shorter outings and detouring to outlying peaks
Beinn Eunach and Beinn a'Chochuill
Ascent : 1300m, distance : 12.5km
Climb over Beinn Eunach to Beinn a'Chochuill as detailed on the left. From Beinn a'Chochuill, return for just under 1km to just before the wide grass area, then head south to pick up a path that drops south-east. Reach the track, make a short cut by crossing it and pick it up again to follow back to Castles Farm.
Ben Cruachan horseshoe and Beinn a'Bhuiridh
Ascent : 1700m, distance : 14km
Start from a good path just east of the Cruachan Visitor Centre, which crosses under the railway line and climbs steeply uphill, following the east side of the burn. Reach a bridge and head for the east end of the dam, then strike straight up Beinn a'Bhuiridh - excellent views south over Loch Awe from the summit. Walk east for a bit, then drop north over bouldery and grassy ground with no paths to the bealach before Stob Garbh. Pick up a good path to follow to Stob Garbh, then Stob Diamh. Continue around the rest of the horseshoe as described on the left and return to the dam and its west side. Cros the dam and then return down to the road the same way you came up.
Taynuilt Peak (or Stob Dearg) and Meall Cuanal
Ascent : 1725m, distance : 15km
From Cruachan's main peak, head west down over bouldery, but straightforward ground and continue to the top of Taynuilt Peak. This is a fine peak with excellent views west. Return to the bealach, then contour around over more bouldery and loose ground to reach the path to follow down to the bealach between Ben Cruachan and Meall Cuanail and its small lochan. It's a short walk, following fence posts to the summit of Meall Cuanail. I think it's best to return north to the bealach and head down Coire Dearg to the track, since heading south from Meall Cuanail will take you through very wet grassy ground.
