Island Hopping Isle of Arran
A stunning Arran sunset A deer beside Lochranza Castle L
egend has it that it was on the west coast of the Isle of Arran that Scots King Robert the Bruce encountered the spi-
der that would change his fate. On the run from English soldiers and on the brink of despair, he hid in a cave, where he watched as the tiny creature attempted to spin its web on the wall. It repeatedly tried and failed, but never gave up - and eventu- ally did achieve its goal. From its determined example, the warrior drew the strength to continue the battle for his country. Today, you can relive the story on a visit the Kings Cave near Blackwaterfoot, or walk to Kingscross Point at Whiting Bay, where it’s said the king waited to be collected before a fi nal push in his campaign. Bruce’s story is only one of many tales as- sociated with Arran, which is home to ancient standing stones, haunted castles, and mysti- cal lochs. Even the shape of the hills has a
story – viewed from mainland Ayrshire, their profi le resembles the outline of a person, said to be a ‘Sleeping Warrior’ resting before bat- tle. The hills are among Arran’s biggest attrac- tions, with Goatfell, the highest mountain, a popular challenge for walkers and climbers. The peak is a highlight of a dramatic land- scape that has led to Arran being dubbed Scotland in Miniature. Its lowland and high- land areas are divided by the Highland Boundary Fault, on either side of which you will fi nd varied and photogenic geology. Arran’s towns and villages are easily navi- gated via the circular A841. Picturesque Lamlash hugs the shore to the island’s east and is its biggest settlement, as well as the point of access to Holy Island, a peace and meditation centre that can be visited on day trips. A short distance north is Brodick, home to Brodick Castle, the image of which fea- tures on the Scottish £20 note. The island’s south and west are more sparsely populated, with villages like peaceful Kildonan and sandy Sannox worth a visit. Two of Arran’s most popular exports are its cheeses, especially fl avoured cheddar, and beer, including the Isle of Arran dark ale. While both products can now be bought on- line and in supermarkets far afi eld, they taste even better in situ – so why not head that way and sample the taste of Arran in one of the is- land’s atmospheric pubs or restaurants.
A typical summer scene in Arran
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