You may have seen the videos from my recent island-hopping road trip off the west coast of Scotland – if you need to catch up!
The first island we ventured across the seas to was the Isle of Arran. Not knowing what to expect this beautiful island was a pleasant surprise indeed!
Everywhere you look the scenery is epic, green and lush – I noted a number of times that it almost seemed prehistoric and like the set of Land Before Time.
The man-made roads that have been built into the sweeping, mountainous terrain make for the most perfect and enjoyable driving conditions that make you feel like you’re on some sort of scenic rollercoaster.
Driving around this beautiful island is an activity in itself but for those you that would like more tangible experiences I can highly recommend these:
Brodick Castle
Brodick Castle is run by the National Trust and boy, do they run it well – the grounds and the castle are simply stunning. Most areas at Brodick Castle are dog-friendly which is super helpful and if it is a nice day you can sit outside the café located in the castle and enjoy a delicious scone and cuppa whilst taking in the breath-taking views.
Arran Aromatics
Arran Aromatics is a brand that I actually really like and have used before so it was nice to see the place where these products originate from. All of their products are of the highest quality, using only the best ingredients. This luxury brand starting out in the kitchen of owners Janet and Iain back in 1989 and has grown to be very successful indeed – maybe because it smells incredible. Situated next to the flagship store on the island you will find the Arran Aromatics factory. Tours run on Thursdays in the evening from June – September, however, upon request winter tours can be arranged by contacting Arran Aromatics directly.
Holy Island
Holy Island is open to visitors in the summer months between April and October and is a unique place indeed. With ancient, spiritual heritage dating back to the 6th Century, Holy Island is considered a sacred place for the practice of Buddhism with its own monastery and Buddhist monks living there. It is home to the Centre of World Peace and Health where people can indulge in a retreat and partake in healing courses, wildlife and bird watching is in abundance and tranquility is a prerequisite when on the island.
Whether it’s driving around the island to explore or checking out the tourist attractions, whatever you decide to do whilst on the Isle of Arran, I can assure you that you will not be disappointed. Arran was the perfect start to our island hopping adventure and I would return in a heartbeat – in fact, I may just check out one of those retreats you know… Huuuuuummmmm.