Day 1
We depart from London Luton (other departure airports available on request) on a morning flight before heading for Ardrossan in time to catch the afternoon ferry to Brodick. On arrival on Arran our coach will transfer us to Blackwaterfoot where our accommodation has been organised for the next four nights at the Kinloch Hotel. In the evening following dinner there will be an informal welcome presentation on how to get the most out of your visit to Arran.
Day 2
Today following breakfast we have a circular tour of the island. Only 56 miles around its coastline, the small villages are compared to 'jewels on a necklace' strung out like pearls around the island.
From Blackwaterfoot we will visit Whiting Bay, Lamlash, Brodick - the capital of Arran, the pretty village of Corrie under the shadow of Goat Fell and Sannox before passing the '12 Apostles' at Lochranza. We return to our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 3
Today will be free to relax in the hotel and its surroundings. Alternatively for those who wish we have organised an optional excursion to the little Hebridean island of Gigha (not included). Nestling close to the mainland just off the Kintyre peninsula, this is a gem of an island often overlooked by the island hopper. We will visit Achamore Gardens, the former home of the Horlick family. Sir James Horlick (of bedtime drink fame) came here in 1944 and started to create a woodland garden. A light lunch will be available at the Gigha Hotel (not included) before we have a wander around the gardens. The mild climate combined with high levels of rainfall means that there is always something in bloom. We return to the Kinloch Hotel for dinner.
Day 4
This morning we have included a visit to Brodick Castle and Gardens. This is a castle you will never forget! Brodick Castle occupies a splendid position, well protected from westerly winds and looking east across the Firth of Clyde. The present garden dates from 1932 when the Duchess of Montrose started an ambitious woodland garden with a collection of rhododendrons. From the castle, paths wind downhill towards the seashore, and in a shady place there is a fernery and a delightful Bavarian summer house embellished with rustic work and lovely inlaid panels of pinecones. A walled garden, dating from 1710, has been restored and mixed borders on three sides retain the gardener's interest throughout the year.
The afternoon will be free in Brodick. We will return to our hotel for dinner.
Day 5
Sadly today we must head for home. This morning, following breakfast, we will travel to the ferry port in time for the late morning crossing to Ardrossan where we expect to arrive early afternoon. Thereafter we will return to the airport in time to catch our evening return flight to London Luton.