Arran Coastal Way - 9 Days & 8 Nights

9 Days & 8 Nights

4.4

Arran Coastal Way - 9 Days & 8 Nights

Immerse yourself in island life on Arran - 'Scotland in miniature'
Spot basking seals and perhaps glimpse a majestic golden eagle
Enjoy panoramic views on the high route option from the summit of Goat Fell, Arran's highest mountain
Discover the historic cave paintings in King's Cave
Stop off at Lochranza Distillery - why not take a tour and have a wee dram?

The Arran Coastal Way encircles one of Scotland’s most famous islands often described as Scotland in miniature. A wonderfully varied walk where you cross beautiful beaches, climb rugged Goat Fell, and visit the iconic King's Cave. A scenic 1 hour ferry crossing from Ardrossan on the mainland brings you to Brodick, the hub of the island, and where you will overnight before beginning the Way. Leave the hustle and bustle of Brodick behind and journey north on quiet and remote trails through the charming village of Sannox, and onto Lochranza where the castle ruins and the opportunity to sample the local whisky await. The views looking north up Loch Fyne towards the highlands are fantastic. From Locharanza, the Way curves south via quiet country roads to reach Blackwaterfoot and idyllic Lagg, wonderful views across to the lush Kintyre Peninsula are never far away. For those wanting to challenge themselves, low route options across the tidal boulder fields between Lagg and Whiting Bay are deeply rewarding. Finally, swing north via Lamlash and return to Brodick for your last night. An unforgettable experience on one of Scotland's best Islands!

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Gallery

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Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrive in Brodick and Overnight Day 2 Walk to Corrie 9 miles / 14 km

On the first stage of the Arran Coastal Way there are two options; a low/coastal route and a high route which takes in Goatfell - the island's highest peak (874 m). The low route option follows the coastal road north out of town, while the inland route heads up the slopes of Goatfell.

If you are feeling energetic, we recommend the inland route as the views from the summit of Goatfell are superb in clear weather. Just remember not to underestimate the climb - you are beginning almost from sea level! From the summit, it's a gentle descent largely through trees to reach the idyllic village of Corrie.

The low route avoids the long ascent up Goatfell, Arran's highest mountain, a good option if the weather isn't favourable or if you'd prefer an easier day to begin the coastal way. The low route passes a sandy beach at the north end of Brodick Bay, skirts Brodick castle, before following forest tracks to reach the village of Corrie.

Tonight you will stay in either Lochranza or Corrie. If you stay in Lochranza you will walk to Corrie and then be transferred from Corrie to Lochranza and transferred back to Corrie the next day.

Low Route - Ascent/Descent: 200m/199m

High Route - Ascent/Descent: 876m/876m

Overnight Corrie

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Corrie Hotel | Hotel

Corrie Hotel is situated in the beautiful village of Corrie, six miles from the ferry Terminal in Brodick, making it an ideal walking or cycling break away. Anne and Danny took over in 2014 and made sure to retain the Hotel's warm friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Corrie hotel now boasts a tastefully refurbished lounge bar and dining area and a popular public bar.

There is a wonderful beer Garden right on the doorstep of the shoreline with fantastic views across the Ayrshire coast where you can enjoy a pint and a bar meal. Most of our rooms have stunning sea views from which you can sometimes see Seals basking on the rocks and Otters playing on the shoreline. There is free Wi-Fi and a hearty breakfast is served each morning.

Please note there are no TVs in the rooms at this hotel.

Butt Lodge | Bed and breakfast

Situated in the mountainous north of the island, Butt House has plenty of secure equipment storage. There is a spacious lounge for guests to use with an open fire.

Lochranza Hotel | Hotel

The Lochranza Hotel stands amidst this timeless village and has a spectacular panoramic view across the bay. The hotel is traditionally decorated throughout and has a high level of service. The bar food uses the best of fresh local produce served in the style of traditional home cooked meals, and there is a great slection of malt whiskies, real ale, spirits and wine.

Day 3 Walk Corrie to Lochranza 12 miles / 18 km Day 4 Walk to Imachar and bus to Blackwaterfoot 9 miles / 15 km Day 5 Bus to Imachar and walk to Blackwaterfoot 10 miles / 16 km Day 6 Blackwaterfoot to Lagg 7 miles / 11 km Day 7 Lagg to Whiting Bay (low or high route options) 12 miles / 20 km

Again this section of the Arran Coastal Way is rather difficult going, as you cross several boulder fields and in the summer months the path can become overgrown. You can choose between the more challenging low route option or a slightly longer, but easier high route option.

The low route option is one of the most challenging on the Arran Coastal Way. It involves tricky scrambling over boulders to round the headlands of both Bennan Head and Dippen Head - do not underestimate the time these sections take to complete. Bennan Head is not passable at high tide and even Dippen Head can become tricky at this time so make sure you check the tide times before setting off. Either or both of headlands can be avoided by taking the alternative inland route before you reach Bennan Head.

For those wishing to avoid the difficulties of tide times and the boulder fields there is a high route alternative. This variation on the route is longer and more undulating than the lower route and heads inland on reaching Bennan Head. The final part of the route goes through forest and descends passing Glenashdale Falls on it's way into Whiting Bay.

Low Route - Ascent/Descent: 33m/32m

High Route - Ascent/Descent: 369m/398m

Overnight Whiting Bay

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

The Burlington | Guest House

This house dates back from the Edwardian era, when the wealthy from Glasgow built summer villas along the west coast of Scotland and Arran. It stands in a prominent sea front position as one of a small number of similar dated properties. All rooms are spacious and en-suite and you will be guaranteed a great overnight stay. They also have a private residents lounge and spacious dining room with offer great sea views.

The Glenisle Hotel | Hotel

The Glenisle Hotel opened in 1849 and has been at the heart of the village of Lamlash ever since. The location, looking directly across the sea to the majestic Holy Isle is one of the most spectacular on the island. Since a major refurbishment in 2008 the Glenisle Hotel & Restaurant is establishing a reputation throughout Scotland for its warm and stylish ambiance and its great, relaxed atmosphere.

Day 8 Whiting Bay to Brodick (low or high route options) 12 miles / 20 km

On this final stage on the Arran Coastal Way between Whiting Bay and Brodick you can choose to hug the coast following the low route or take the higher route.

The high route takes you up passed Glenashadale Falls and through shady forest on higher ground with great views towards Lamlash where you join the lower route to follow shoreline around Clauchlands Point to reach Brodick and the end of the Way.

The low route keeps to the coastline as much as possible and follows paths and quiet country roads. You will pass Kingscross Point and it's viking burial ground with views over to Holy Isle. You follow the coastal boardwalks to Lamlash Bay with it's "No Take Zone" marine conservation area. On rounding Clauchlands Point you'll soon see Goatfell, Arran's highest hill, rearing it's head as you walk towards the end point of the trail in Brodick.

Low Route - Ascent/Descent: 33m/32m

High Route - Ascent/Descent: 369m/398m

Overnight Brodick

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Dunvegan Guest House | Guest House

Dunvegan House is situated within the picturesque village of Brodick on Arran. It is a traditional sandstone building that has been tastefully renovated and decorated throughout to create a spacious four star licensed guest house that offers superb accommodation. The house has nine rooms, eight of which are fully en-suite and the ninth having private facilities and all are beautifully furnished and decorated to the highest standard and include colour TV, Radio/alarm clock and hospitality tray.

Auchrannie Resort, Brodick, Isle of Arran

Auchrannie House Hotel | 4 Star | Hotel

End the Arran Coastal Way in style and upgrade to Auchrannie Resort & Spa. Located within quiet woodland, a 10 minute walk from Brodick, the resort features two indoor pools and a whole range of spa treatments available to guests. Rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated, always with a traditional Scottish touch. Guests can pick from three restaurants and bars on site. The most relaxing way to finish a walking holiday! An additional supplement will be added to booking at confirmation stage if choosing to stay here.

Belvedere Guest House | Guest House

Belvedere is a three-star, privately-run guest house. It is appropriately named, enjoying a picture postcard view across Brodick Bay towards Goat Fell, the tallest mountain on the Isle of Arran. Accommodation is comfortable, yet informal. All rooms have H&C or en suite amenities, electric blankets, tea/coffee making facilities, hair dryers, TV, radio and free Wi-Fi internet access.

Day 9 Onward Travel

THIS TRIP'S CARBON SCORE

This trip has a carbon score of 11kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our greenest trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 11kg is equivalent to 2 Neapolitan margherita pizzas. Buon appetito!. Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information about how we've carbon counted our trips.

Other Information

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Is it for me?

Arran is a beautiful island that has an abundance of wildlife, amazing views and friendly locals who are always up for a chat. You wouldn't think an Island which is so accessible (Only 2 hours from the centre of Glasgow) could give that feeling of remoteness which so many walkers crave, but Arran proves this is possible. If you want to experience a wilder side of Scotland and prefer sharing the trail with wildlife instead of people, walking the Arran Coastal Way will give you an unforgettable experience. To fully appreciate the Way, it is recommended you are a regular walker who likes to challenge themselves. Although there isn’t a huge amount of ascent/descent on the coastal way, bar the Goat Fell walk, the terrain throughout is very rugged and rough underfoot.

Tour Type:

Classic Routes | If you’re the active, outdoorsy type, who’s interested in taking on the great routes of the world or looking for a challenge, then our Classic Routes are for you. We’re talking the West Highland Way, Tour Du Mont Blanc and the Passau to Vienna Danube Cycle Path, to name but a few!

Activity:

Inn to Inn Walking | Walk from place-to-place changing accommodations each night. Generally staying in B&B’s, inns, and guesthouses.

This trip is suitable for:

Solo Travellers

The minimum age for this tour is: 15 Years

Ideal if you have an interest in:

Islands

Coastal Walking

Activity Level & Terrain

This walk is graded moderate. Our most popular itinerary, 8 days and 7 nights, is graded at the upper end of moderate. Our slightly longer itinerary, 9 days and 8 nights is slightly easier going as it breaks up some of the road walking on the west coast of the island.

The grade is determined on the basis of the entire trip. Individual days may vary in terms of difficulty, i.e. some walks may be slightly more difficult or easier than the overall grade. On both itineraries, you will follow the coast along forest footpaths, hillside tracks, tarmac roads with grass verges, and beaches with boulders, sand and shingle. In general, most of the walking is rough underfoot when not on roads and can also become slippery after recent rainfall, so you do need to be comfortable with this kind of terrain. If choosing to walk via Goat Fell summit on your first walking day, the ascent and descent is steep and can be exposed so a good head for heights is required and sure-footedness in places (It is easy to avoid this by taking the coastal route instead). Due to the difficult terrain (mountains and high ground descending to a rocky shoreline and the sea), it is necessary for some of the route to follow roads, particularly on the west coast from Lochranza down to Tormore. However, these roads are usually quiet and the views out over the coastline are spectacular. The stretch of road between Brodick and Lochranza is slightly busier with tourist traffic so please observe the instructions on the Macs Adventure app.

Accommodation & Meals Navigation What's Included When to go Travel & Transfers

Getting to the Start

Getting to/from Brodick on the Isle of Arran

Arran is easily accessible from Glasgow, from here you have the following options:

By Air:

Glasgow is served by two international airports. Prestwick airport is the most convenient for Arran and is only a 30 minute taxi journey to the ferry terminal at Ardrossan (or you can take a train, changing at Kilwinning; total journey approx. 45 mins). Glasgow airport is 8 miles west of the city centre and train timetables are designed to connect to the ferry which departs from Ardrossan to Brodick (train is 45 mins, ferry approx. 55 mins) or you can take a taxi which is approximately one hour from Glasgow to Ardrossan.

By Road:

Ardrossan is one hour south-east of Glasgow and there is a large secure car park at the harbour, where you can leave your car during your time on Arran (fee payable).

By Rail:

There are regular services from Glasgow Central Station to Ardrossan which connect with the ferry to Arran.

Further information will be detailed in your information pack, or you can visit www.travelinescotland.com for journey planning.

Ferry:

The Ferry which runs between Ardrossan and Brodick is operated by Caledonian MacBrayne and you will find a ferry timetable on the Calmac website.

Luggage Transfer

Daily door to door baggage transfer of one 15kg bag per person is included in the price of your trip.

At Macs Adventure, we work in partnership with many luggage transfer providers who set a limit on how many bags/suitcases they will transfer per person, and also the weight of the bag/suitcase. Your booking includes transfer of 1 bag per person. It is very important that you read the luggage information specific to your tour before departure. If you do not adhere to these limits, there is a great possibility that you will be charged locally both for extra bags or if they are too heavy. This limitation can be a challenge, especially as airlines generally have limits that are higher. However, our luggage providers have reasons for these limits (usually due to the Health and Safety of their employees), which we must respect.

Info & FAQ

General Information

Please note that because of a lack of accommodation on the island, especially at busier times in the season, you may be booked into Corrie/ Lochranza for two nights rather than a night in each location. Also, we only have one accommodation in Lagg, with limited opening times and availability. When it is not possible to reserve a room here you will be booked into Blackwaterfoot. All transfers will be provided and are included in the cost.

It is essential to make use of the excellent local bus service on Arran to complete the full walk. Although extensive and reliable, some services only run a few times a day. It is very important you have access to up-to-date timetables to plan your walking day, more information will be supplied in your Information Pack provided at the time of booking.

Equipment

You will need good walking shoes/boots (ideally waterproof), comfortable walking clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers, a daypack and hats/gloves etc.

Travel Insurance

It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity, emergency evacuation and hospital care.