The Isle of arran is often
referred to as 'Scotland in Miniature', as many aspects of Scotland's landscape as a whole
are encapsulated by the island. Cut in half by the rugged and hilly whereas the south is
more gentle and rolling. Featuring towering granite peaks, peaceful sandy bays, coastal
caves and forests, the ancient seat of the Dukes of Hamilton, is an impressive stately
home with impressive fine gardens and walking trails. Examples of the island's varied
geology can be seen in the local heritage museum, house in a charming blacksmith's cottage
which also features an archaeology exhibition. Brodick Castle is a National Trust for
Scotland site.
Arran is a small island,
20 miles long and 56 miles round, located off the south-west coast of Scotland. Palm trees
grow here in the mild climate thanks to the Gulf Stream and it has many picturesque
villages.
The island is cut in half by
the Highland Boundary Fault, a geological division which makes the north rugged and hilly,
whereas the south is more gentle and lower lying. In fact it is often called 'Scotland in
miniature' for its range and wealth of scenery. All this is within easy reach of Glasgow,
making it an ideal holiday destination.
It has history (castles and
ancient monuments), wildlife (birds, seals and deer) and leisure facilities (tennis, golf,
yachting, pony trekking, bowling, cycling). Something for everyone.
Of the island's 4500+
inhabitants, over 1000 live in the main port Brodick.
Annual events include the
Arran Festival of Folk (7-13 June 1999) and the Brodick Highland Games (7 August 1999).
There are also various hill races this year (Goatfell on 15 May, Glen Rosa on 19 June and
Urie Loch on 18 July). The Cutty Sark Tall Ships race will be visiting during 30 July - 2
August. In addition to these, there are allsorts of other events taking place throughout
1999. The local tourist office will have up-to-date details.
How to get to Arran
Two vehicle ferries run from
the Scottish mainland to the Isle of Arran. Most people reach the island via Ardrossan
which has a direct rail service from Glasgow.
These ferries are operated by
Caledonian MacBrayne - Tel: 01475 650 100 / fax: 01475 635 235 or for vehicle reservations
telephone 0990 650 000.
Vehicle ferry:
Ardrossan-Brodick
A large ferry leaves Ardrossan which is nearly 40 miles by road from Glasgow (allow 1 and
a half hours to drive) or one hour by train. The boat takes you to Arran's main town
Brodick. In the summer there are 5 or 6 daily sailings from Monday to Saturday and 4
sailings on Sundays. Fewer sailings operate over the winter (October - early April).
Journey time: 55 minutes. The Caledonian MacBrayne brochure states that vehicle
reservation is required but this might only be really necessary at peak times during the
holidays.
Vehicle ferry:
Claonaig-Lochranza
A small vehicle ferry leaves Claonaig, a tiny spot on the Kintyre Peninsula (110 miles
from Glasgow) and in 30 minutes takes you over to Lochranza on the northern tip of Arran.
From Easter until October there are about 10 crossings every day, so you just turn up and
hope to get on the next one. A limited service operates over the winter. No vehicle
reservations possible. You can get Early Bird Savers or Day Savers which work out slightly
cheaper if you have a car and up to 4 passengers.
Check bus times with
Strathclyde Transport - Tel: 0141 332 7133 or Argyll and Bute Council -
Tel: 01546 604
695.
