Coran of Portmark facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Coran of Portmark |
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|---|---|
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 623 m (2,044 ft) |
| Prominence | 61 m (200 ft) |
| Listing | Tu,Sim, D,GT,DN |
| Naming | |
| English translation | Scottish Gaelic: Round Hill (or Hook) of Portmark |
| Geography | |
| Location | Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland |
| Parent range | Rhinns of Kells, Galloway Hills |
| OS grid | NX 50930 93667 |
| Topo map | OS Landranger 77 |
Coran of Portmark is a hill in the beautiful Galloway Hills of Scotland. It is part of a smaller group of hills called the Rhinns of Kells. These hills are found in the Southern Uplands area of Scotland.
Coran of Portmark is special because it is the most northern "Donald" hill in its range. People often climb it from different directions. A popular starting point is Garryhorn, which is near a village called Carsphairn. Many hikers begin their journey here to walk along the entire ridge of hills. The hill's name comes from an old settlement that used to be to its west.
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What is Coran of Portmark?
Coran of Portmark is a hill that stands 623 meters (about 2,044 feet) tall. It is located in the region of Dumfries and Galloway in southwest Scotland. The hill is part of a longer chain of hills known as the Rhinns of Kells. These hills form a natural border between two valleys: the Glenkens to the west and the Doon Valley to the east.
The Rhinns of Kells
The Rhinns of Kells are a group of hills that stretch for about 15 kilometers (9 miles). They are known for their rugged beauty and offer great views of the surrounding countryside. Coran of Portmark is one of the many peaks in this range.
Southern Uplands of Scotland
The Southern Uplands are the least populated of Scotland's three major geographical regions. They are made up of rolling hills and wide valleys. This area is popular for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and fishing. Coran of Portmark is a small but important part of this larger landscape.
What is a Donald?
The term "Donald" refers to a specific type of hill in Scotland. These hills are named after Percy Donald, who created a list of them. To be a Donald, a hill must be:
- At least 2,000 feet (610 meters) high.
- Located in the Scottish Lowlands.
- Have a "prominence" of at least 50 feet (15 meters).
Prominence Explained
Prominence is a way to measure how much a hill stands out from its surroundings. Imagine a hill. Its prominence is the vertical distance from its summit (the very top) to the lowest point on the ridge connecting it to any higher peak. This helps show how independent a hill is. Coran of Portmark has a prominence of 61 meters (about 200 feet), which means it clearly stands out from the hills around it.
How to Explore Coran of Portmark
Many people enjoy hiking to the top of Coran of Portmark. It's a great way to experience the Scottish outdoors.
Popular Hiking Routes
The most common way to climb Coran of Portmark is from Garryhorn, near Carsphairn. From here, hikers can follow paths that lead up the hill. For more experienced hikers, Coran of Portmark is often the first stop on a longer journey. This journey involves walking along the entire ridge of the Rhinns of Kells. This is called a "traverse" and can take several hours or even a full day.
What to Expect on the Trail
The trails can be rocky and sometimes wet, especially after rain. Hikers should wear sturdy boots and waterproof clothing. The views from the top are rewarding, offering wide panoramas of the Galloway Hills and beyond. It's a good idea to bring a map and compass, or a GPS device, as the weather can change quickly in the Scottish hills.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name "Coran of Portmark" has roots in the Scottish Gaelic language.
- "Coran" can mean "Round Hill" or "Hook."
- "Portmark" refers to an old settlement that was located to the west of the hill.
So, the name likely means "Round Hill (or Hook) of Portmark." This shows how the landscape and human history are connected through place names.
