Sitting in the Firth of Clyde mid way between the Ayrshire coast and the Mull of Kintyre with just 6 miles separating it from Bute. This is a holiday island of almost infinite variety, from sandy seaside beaches to rugged peaks that rival anything the Highlands can show, Arran has it all, known quite rightly as "Scotland in miniature". The highest peak on the island is Goat Fell (2,866 feet) which is accessible from Brodick, the capital and main port of Arran. There is a good ring road round the island with 'string' roads branching inland at various points, making it very easy to see even the most out of way spots. The history of the island is long and interesting - from Neolithic settlements to Robert the Bruce and the famous spider in a cave, the island has tales to tell. The latest chapter is the founding of a Buddhist retreat on Holy Isle, just off the east coast. For the visitor there are hotels, guesthouses, pubs and b&b's abound, there's festivals, sailing, ... < more >