About Islandeering
Hi and welcome to Islandeering Islandeering is for people who want adventure in Britain’s wild blue spaces – our rivers, coast, lakes, canals and islands. You will find amazing walks, paddles and swims in the UK’s most special places, those recognised for outstanding natural beauty, incredible geology or special and abundant wildlife.
More About UsWe continuously find new islands, rivers, lochs, canals and coast to walk, SUP and swim in and meet plenty of great folks along the way. Join our community to get new routes and adventures, latest blogs and news by using the email box below. Tune in also to our Facebook and Instagram pages to see where we are going next.
About Arran
Visiting Arran, often called “Scotland in miniature,” is ideal for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. This picturesque island in the Firth of Clyde features diverse landscapes, including rugged mountains, a coastline of sandy beaches, cliffs and caves and lush forests, perfect for outdoor activities.
Walking is highly popular on Arran, with trails ranging from gentle coastal walks to challenging mountain climbs. Goat Fell, the highest peak at 874 meters, offers a rewarding trek with panoramic views. Cycling is another excellent way to explore, with routes winding through scenic countryside, coastlines, and charming villages. A popular but challenging ride is to the full Arran circuit – link to Islandeering tab.
Arran’s coastline is perfect for water sports enthusiasts, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing in sheltered bays and clear waters. History buffs can visit prehistoric stone circles or explore Brodick Castle and its gardens for a glimpse into Scotland’s heritage, while local produce and craftsmanship can be enjoyed through Arran distillery tours and tastings, and exploring arts and crafts galleries.
Wildlife watching is a highlight, with opportunities to spot red deer, seals, otters, and various bird species through guided tours and safaris.
Easily accessible from Glasgow, the Isle of Arran is a must-visit destination in Scotland and a popular year-round weekend destination.
How to get to Arran
Arran Ferry is run by CalMac with a vehicl ferry that runs from Adrossen (linked by train to Glasgow) to Brodick on Arran’s east coast (1 hour). There a summer ferry service between Claonaig on the Kintyre peninsula to Lochranza in the north of Arran (30 mins); but in winter the ferry service runs from Tarbert (Loch Fyne) to Lochranza. The Troon to Brodick ferry runs in the summer. Book a ferry to Arran here https://www.calmac.co.uk/article/1925/Arran
Food and drink in Arran
There is a full range of accommodation and food on the island. Personal favourites for pit-stops are:
Everywhere/Brodick – amazing takeaway French food served from a van – think Duck a l’Orange, cumin roasted cauliflower, steak au poivre, coffee profiteroles to name a few https://www.facebook.com/thefrenchfoxfood/.
Lamlash – The Old Pier Tearoom. Great cakes and lunches and delicious sausage rolls https://www.oldpiercafe.co.uk/
Lochranza – The Stags Pavilion, fantastic local food with an Italian twist https://www.stagspavilion.com/ ; The Sandwich Station for fabulous sandwiches – both directly off the ferry from Claonaig https://thesandwichstation.weebly.com/
Machrie – Cafe Thyme, a little off the road but well worth it for lunch and cakes or homemade Turkish bread https://www.oldbyre.co.uk/cafethyme.irs
Corrie – Mara Fish Bar and Deli. Wowsers seafood on the shore https://www.arransfoodjourney.com/business/mara-fish-bar-deli/
Whiting Bay – The Shore, great coffee in a café on the beach plus bring your own booze with your meal (try their Sunday roast) https://www.theshorearran.co.uk/.
Blackwater – Blackwater Bakehouse is a gem of a bakery, try the almond croissants, olive focaccia, and house-speciality of glass bread https://www.facebook.com/bakehouseblackwater/?locale=en_GB
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