Isle of Arran

 

Arran is often referred to as Scotland in miniature and rightly so. Taking the 50-mile circular road around the island is like crisscrossing the whole of Scotland, you’ll find exact replicas of every element of Scotland’s idiosyncratic environment; rugged heather swept mountains and jagged peaks, mature Scots pine forests, rolling lush meadows and dramatic coastlines.

Also like the highlands, Arran is teeming with wildlife, red deer roam the forests and highlands, golden eagles soar between the peaks and a rich variety of seabirds can be found dotted along the coastline and dolphins occasionally bask in its waters.

Arran is also rich in cottage industries of all types and sizes offering a diverse range of local produce most famously its cheeses. The island is a popular place for outdoor activities particularly walking with many routes accessible to ramblers of all types, from the sweeping slopes of Goat Fell to the forest walks around Glenashdale falls.

Just outside the central town of Brodick and well worth a visit is Brodick Castle, an excellent National Trust property dating back to the 13th Century housing a magnificent collection of Victorian and Edwardian furnishings including a beautiful bohemian dining set. Surrounding the castle are extensive woodland gardens with various country trails and a famous collection of rhododendrons.