Isle of Arran

Arran is approximately 20 miles long and 10 miles wide, and has some of the most spectacular and beautiful scenery in Scotland.  It is often described as Scotland in miniature "the highlands" being in the north with magnificent mountains, glens, wild moorland and mountain streams dominated by Goatfell the highest of the peaks at 2866 feet, and "the lowlands" in the south with undulating hills, forests and moors.  There is a road that circles the island some 56 miles long, passing through picturesque villages providing a variety of good places to stop and eat, and some lovely sandy coves and beaches such as the one at Blackwaterfoot.  Two roads cross the island East to West taking you through the less populated centre.

The island is a haven for those interested in wildlife, history or geology.  It has a diverse range of animals, birds and plants including otters, golden eagles and the unique Arran whitebeam.  There are numerous historic sites from neolithic tombs and standing stones to Brodick Castle.  Arran has fine examples of many types of rock and their formations, which regularly attract geology students for their field studies.

Activities on Arran

Walking: Arran provides wonderful walking ranging from the challenge of the Coastal Way right around the island, hiking through forests or glens, strolling on the beaches, to ridge walking in the northern range climaxing with the peak of Goatfell.

Fishing & Boat Hire: Burn, loch and sea angling is available to the public. For shore fishers there are miles of easily accessible beach where good sport may be enjoyed in peace and safety. Boats are available for hire.

Golf, Bowling & Tennis: There are seven golf courses all providing a pleasurable game in wonderful surroundings. Competitions are run regularly throughout the year at most courses. Bowling greens are open to visitors at Brodick, Lamlash and Whiting Bay. Tennis courts are available at most villages.

Relaxing/Well-being: practitioners of reflexology, aromatherapy, massage, reiki healing, homeopathy, herbal medicine, acupuncture and other natural and complementary medicines are available on Arran, as well as the more conventional health spa treatments.

Adventure: sailing, kayaking, diving, paragliding, pony treking, gorge walking and abseiling are some of the adventure activities to be found on the island.