Around Scotland: Arran

Every week, we will pick a place in Scotland and give you some top tips about how to enjoy it. This week: Arran

SCOTLAND’S Western Isles offer the perfect way to escape from busy life in the central belt. Arran offers stunning scenery in tranquil settings, only two hours from Glasgow.

The seventh largest Scottish island at 19 miles long and 10 miles wide, i t is big enough to offer some variety, but small enough to explore at your leisure (most of the island is served by one main road).

Perhaps the most endearing thing about the island is the ability if gives you to do things at your own pace. Golfers can take in a leisurely 18 holes on one of the island’s seven courses, while climbers can explore some of the islands peaks. The island is also a haven for birdwatchers with the mountainous northern half providing an ideal habitat for the golden eagle.

However, if you just want relex and gaze out into the horizon you can sit and unwind with a wee dram local whisky in one of the many pubs the island has to offer.

For tourists visiting Scotland or those looking for a holiday a bit closer to home, it has a lot to offer.

Approaching the island, the Goatfell Mountain (pictured above) is one of Arran’s most striking features. At 874 metres, it is highest point on the island and offers incredible views when scaled. If you are visiting for a few days, it is worth setting some time aside to scale to the peak.

A coastal walk is also a must for those who enjoy the outdoors. There is no shortage of routes to take and the coastalway.co.uk website talks you through some of the most popular.

The island is the home of cosmetics company Arran Armocatics – you can find their workshop here – and, with its multitude of flavours, the Arran Cheese Shop.

There is also Brodick castle, with its history going back 800 years to the Vikings. Nestled behind acres of woodland, it is only open during peak months, but its vast grounds offer visitors more room to explore throughout the year.

Main areas

Brodick, where most visitors to the island arrive, is the main village on the island. It has a selection of cafes, shops, bars and hotels which mostly overlook the shore. It is also where you’ll find the toursit information centre for those of you in search of ideas about how to spend your time on Arran.

Those of a culinary persuasion may also wish to to check out eighteen69, the restaurant at the Auchrannie House Hotel - located just outside the village - which recently claimed the Eat Scotland Silver Award.

Further down the east coast you’ll find Lamlash, the second main area of the island which boasts stunning views of the Holy Ise - an ancient spiritual heritage which is now home to an order of Buddhist monks.

Getting there

The Caledonian Macbrayne ferry, which sails into Brodick every three hours. You can see the timetable and prices on the company’s website.