Isle of Arran Coastal Way Walking Holidays

The Isle of Arran is sheltered on the western side by the Mull of Kintyre across Kilbrannan Sound and the long Ayrshire coast stretching south across the Firth of Clyde on its eastern shores. The warming effects of the Gulf Stream secures an above average mainland temperatures - palm trees, Mediterranean plants are a common fixture of the island.

Walking the Arran Coastal Way is often likened to walking around a miniature model of Scotland, although this description neglects the island's strong character. Approximately 20 miles long by 10 miles across, Arran has unique contrasting landscapes in its compact area. Our route follows the rugged mountains and green hills in the north (reminiscent of Highland Glens), to the farmlands and wild forests, streams and waterfalls of the gentle Borders in the south, encircled by rugged shorelines cliffs and beaches.

Taking the ferry across from the mainland to Arran's capital, Brodick, this is truly one of the more remote and peaceful of the coastal walking holidays in UK territory. There is the opportunity to walk inland to ascend Arran’s highest point, Goatfell – in fine weather this challenging but enjoyable walk to the pyramidal summit rewards you with stunning views of Ayrshire, the Mull of Kintyre and Ireland.

The shallow coastal outline of the island has created ideal conditions for a round island coastal walk. The geology of the isle has often attracted climbers to the North side of the islands more dramatic steep ridges, our walk skirts around the edges - notwithstanding some more challenging sections, particularly the route from Lagg to Whiting Bay.

Recent drives to renovate and maintain the path have created easier ways to navigate what is quintessential rugged coastal walking, i.e. the An Scriodan boulder field now has a stepped path - so it is now passable in all tides and weather. It is generally the case that where the more untamed sections of the path are lost to the tide, there will be an inland route to compensate.