Mountain festival Good to Go
One event definitely going ahead this year is the Arran Mountain Festival.
Booking lines for the 2021 festival open today (Friday) at 5pm and the popular walks and other events always sell out fast.
Having skipped a year for the first time in its 14-year history, this year’s festival in being held from May 14 to May 17.
The walks are graded depending on the stamina required and this year, for the first time, there will be mountain bike rides as well. The events have been revised to start and finish in the same place and participants will have to make their way to the start points from Arran’s population centres.
A mountain festival spokeswoman said: ‘We were devastated to have to cancel last year’s event but we’re delighted to confirm that we are back for 2021 and there is something to suit all abilities and levels of experience.
‘Whilst we are unable to put on the usual full festival fun, we are thrilled to be able to bring you a slightly smaller but Covid-safe event and share our stunning Arran mountains with you again.
‘Before booking your walks, please double check that you will be able to travel to the 2021 Arran Mountain Festival. Check out VisitScotland’s latest advice at www.visitscotland.com/ about/practical-information/covid-19-recovery-phases
‘We recommend that you also check ferry and accommodation availability as soon as possible.
‘The festival is Good To Go accredited and all our procedures comply with Covid requirements to keep you and our team of fabulous volunteer walk leaders safe.’
The walks programme is available at www.arranmountainfestival.co.uk where guided mountain bike sessions, courtesy of Ride Arran MTB Guiding, are also listed.