Arran: Isle of Beauty, Pt. 1

The coastline of this small Scottish island may only be 56 miles, but it warrants a three-part post as there's just too much to cover in one!

A very affordable £7.50 will get you a walk-on return on the Caledonian MacBrayne Ferry across the Firth of Clyde, from Ardrossan to Brodick. However, if you're travelling by car (price will be based on the car and number of people travelling within it), it's recommended that you book your journey online in advance, as there can sometimes be limited space for vehicles. It's also advisable to use the website to keep updated on any changes to your ferry times due to weather. Caledonian MacBrayne can also be reached via phone on 0800 066 5000, should you need more information, or help adjusting your booking. The ferries are also pet-friendly!

If you're not driving, to reach Ardrossan Harbour for the ferry crossing, take the direct train from Glasgow Central for £7.50 (train travel time varies, from 45 minutes to 51 minutes).

Arran is the seventh largest of the Scottish Islands. Around 4,600 residents make this island their home. The lush green Arran landscape rises to rocky hills, dipping down to rushing waterfalls, gurgling streams and gives way to long stretches of sandy beach. Arran is often known as 'Scotland in miniature' with the Highland Boundary Fault dividing the island's rockier North from the verdant, gently rolling South.

There are only three roads on the island (I don't know why I find this fact so delightful :D It must be from living in London with its massive transport network). The main road (A841) hugs the coast, and will take you around the entire island. 'The String' road cuts across the middle of the island (from Brodick to Blackwaterfoot), and a small third road branches off to the right of The String road to Machrie.

If you haven't rented a car, the SPT bus services can easily get you around the island. This Arran bus timetable is in effect until Oct 24th, 2016.

Though I lived in Scotland from 2007-2010, I was based in Glasgow, with the occasional trip across to Edinburgh to visit friends. So this was my first visit to the island. And it certainly didn't disappoint! Around every corner there's something beautiful to stop you in your tracks, and I never tire of watching the mist curling over the island's hilltops.

So put on those walking shoes, grab your camera and start exploring this gorgeous little island!

(Hover your mouse over the photos for location descriptions)

Check back next week for Pt. 2 for some suggestions on what to see and do while on Arran.

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