The Isle of Arran, located just off the beautiful West coast of Scotland, offers a perfect alternative destination. Off the roads from the more touristic paths, the island offers its visitors both breath-taking landscapes and stunning places to stay, whether you’re travelling on a budget or looking for luxury getaways.
The Isle of Arran is also welknown amongst whisky enthusiasts for hosting The Arran Distillery (based in Lochranza and opened in 1995), one of the few remaining independent Scottish distilleries. Its state-of-the-art visitor centre, open all year round, has now become a must-go attraction!
FUN FACT: In the early 19th century, there were more than 50 whisky distilleries on Arran, most of them illegal and carefully hidden from the eyes of the taxmen. The Island’s malt whisky was shipped to the mainland and enjoyed by the gentry, who regularly ‘took the Arran waters’. It was acclaimed at the time as the best in Scotland! Today, The Arran Distillery is the one and only whisky distillery on the island…”
If you’re looking for an original and/or stylish place to stay during your islander break, here’s my selection of 3 seriously cool places on Arran:
Glenisle Hotel – from £83 per night
Address : Lamlash, Isle of Arran KA27 8LY, UK
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The Glenisle Hotel opened it’s doors in 1849 and has been at the heart of the charming village of Lamlash ever since. The location, looking directly across the sea to the majestic Holy Isle is certainly one of the most spectacular on this beautiful 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.
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Its Talisman Bar is named after the steamer which used to travel between Glasgow and Lamlash. Of course, the bar stocks a good range of Arran whiskies and Ales as well as the standard fare. Take your drinks out to the terrace or curl up in the cozy snug with its large, comfy armchairs in the charming atmosphere of exposed wooden floors and rough, sandstone walls and it’s large, ancient fireplace.
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Address : Auchrannie Rd, Brodick, Isle of Arran KA27 8BZ, UK
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Auchrannie is located in the village of Brodick on the beautiful Isle of Arran, off the west coast of Scotland.
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Family owned since 1988 the Johnston family are committed to providing a superior friendly service and provide true Scottish hospitality in amazing multi award winning surroundings. Choose from 2 four star hotels, the traditional House Hotel and the more contemporary Spa Resort or one of the thirty, five star, self-catering luxury lodges. No matter where you choose to stay within the resort you can take full advantage of the extensive facilities offered.
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The signature restaurant at the Auchrannie Resort may just be the best place to eat on the wonderfully scenic Isle of Arran. Eighteen69 reclines in the oldest part of the resort, and feels reassuringly old-world, yet with a conservatory setting that makes sure it is not dark or oppressive. Local ingredients shine in regular starters such as chunky Tarbert landed scallops, imaginatively paired with a lightly spiced onion bhaji and Ayrshire streaky bacon. Then there are specials like mackerel landed just the other side of the island in Blackwaterfoot, and of course Arran cheese. They also offer the world class Arran Blue and tastebud tingling Arran camembert from the Shiskine Valley, as well as the fine Dunlop cheddar that is produced in the south of the island.
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Address: Lamlash, Isle of Arran, UK
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A vegetarian/vegan B&B offering a nice and cosy ensuite twin room. A short walk from the holy isle ferry. Guests may sit out in the garden and enjoy a beautiful view of Arran’s rolling hills in a quiet and friendly atmosphere.
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A perfect country escape, you’ll be greeted with a very warm welcome from Alice, along with a lovely tray of teas to choose from in your room. Delicious breakfast in the morning, family atmosphere and great conversations make this Airbnb one the best deals you could wish for on Arran (well, as long as you’re not too much of a meat lover…).
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