Line © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), checked by Global Adventurer.
The walk
From the forestry car park on the A841, 3 km north of Blackwaterfoot, follow the path from the corner of the car park past a hut circle and along the northern edge of the forest, with views across Kilbrannan Sound to Kintyre. It doubles back down a rocky cleft to a gate onto the shore. Follow the rocky foreshore south below the cliffs to the caves; a path climbs to King's Cave, behind a metal gate. Continue along the shore to a signpost and take the left fork back up through the forest to the car park.
It is 4.8 km with 141 m of ascent; allow about 1½ hours. The grade is Easy: good forest paths, with a rough, rocky stretch along the shore.
The shore section is rough and rocky, and the path fades in places. The walls of King's Cave carry early Christian and older carvings, so take care not to damage them. The story of Robert the Bruce and the spider is told of several caves.
The car park is free. Buses will stop by the car park if asked.
Route drawn by Global Adventurer along OpenStreetMap paths (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), with figures worked out from it. Check the forecast and the ground on the day: paths change.
Good to know
- King's Cave is one of several caves where Robert the Bruce is said to have watched the famous spider
- The cave walls carry early Christian and older carvings
- The way along the shore is over rough, rocky ground below the cliffs
Getting there
Start: King's Cave car park, A841 north of Blackwaterfoot · Free parking. 55.53167, -5.33261
Places to stay nearby
Rooms in and around King's Cave car park: Booking.com → Expedia →
Affiliate links: if you book, Global Adventurer earns a small commission at no cost to you.
Paths change, and the weather decides the day. The line and figures come from OpenStreetMap and our own checks; take a map, check the forecast, and turn back if it isn't right.