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Arran is a not just a beautiful island – there’s loads to see and do, no matter what your age.
The crossing by car ferry from Ardrossan Harbour to Brodick is served by the large and modern MV Caledonian Isles which has a range of on board facilities including the Mariners cafeteria for meals and snacks, the Coffee Cabin, The Still Bar, Gift Shop and various comfortable lounges. The crossing takes 55 minutes, and it is advisable to book in advance if you are planning to bring a car to the island.
Ferry Services are operated by Caledonian MacBrayne. Please see their website for the latest ferry timetables and bookings to and from the island.
The best of Scotland, in miniature
Everyone says it, but it’s true. Arran has a bit of everything: mountains, forests, beaches, glens. You can cycle round the island in a day, and there are beautiful golf courses if you like to take things a little more slowly. You can’t miss Goat Fell as you approach on the ferry to Arran – it’s the island’s biggest mountain, and one of the most popular walks, with spectacular views from the top. And if you want more technical hiking and climbing, go for a scramble with one of the mountaineers from the Arran Adventure company.
Wildlife, castles, local cheese, and malts
The wildlife on Arran is abundant, so pack your binoculars for a chance to see seal colonies, otters, eagles, basking sharks, porpoises, and over 100 species of birds. There’s plenty of history, too – head to Brodick Castle for a peak at the ancient seat of power, or Lochranza Castle, with its underground prison, ‘the pit’. After all that you might need a bit of sustenance – and Arran’s got that covered, too, with local cheese, beer and whisky.[/fusion_text]