Arran, Scotland in Miniature

Today following breakfast we have a circular tour of the island of Arran.  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; Corrie and Sannox under the shadow of Goat Fell and other mountains, and then down the west coast to Catacol and Pirnmill with its '12 Apostles'.

Also included today is a visit to the Isle of Arran Distillery, where we will have an opportunity for lunch (not included), followed by a tour of the distillery and a taste of the finished product.

We return to our hotel in time for dinner.

Today will be free to relax in the hotel and its surroundings. Alternatively for those who wish we have organized 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 is served at the Gigha Hotel 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.

This morning we have included a visit to the Brodick Castle and Gardens. 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.

Sadly today we must head for home. This morning, following breakfast, we will travel to the ferry port in time for the crossing to Ardrossan where we expect to arrive early afternoon. Thereafter we will return to our original pick up points to arrive late afternoon/early evening - your driver will be able to confirm a more precise return time en route home.