I had been looking at something similar to this route in the Campsie Fells and hope more people make an attempt. Delighted to find this and that Sam had created a great route.
Today was the day to give it a shot. Beautiful settled weather recently got me thinking this would a good time to attempt, and allow the bogs to be as dry as possible (which was not very dry!).
Quick running for the first 20k of the route to Meikle Bin, the descent of Stronend is superb. A section of trail links Stronend to Meikle Bin, so opportunity to move quickly here and make up time.
This is route of 2 half's.
Meikle Bin to Cort Ma Law was straightforward and good going. Lairs to Lecket Hill was tougher going over the bogs and tussocks. Lecket Hill to Holehead again allowed for fast moving, however the section from Holehead to Earl's seat is the real sting in the tail with lots of deep bogs and tussocks to negotiate. From Hart Hill to Dumbreck I decided to take a straight route out of the Glen which differed slightly from the original, using Dumbreck as a slight out and back. An error on my part was not talking enough water from the source at the Glen which impacted the last stages due to the heat. After ensuring Owsen Hill had been done it was on to Earls Seat. Earls Seat back to Fintry was beautiful single track running and a fine way to end the route, back down to the fountain and the route complete.
The 2 cans of Fanta at the end were very welcomed!!