Isle of Arran: Small Island, Big Adventures

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view of Lochranza on the Isle of Arran
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Voted one of TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best UK Destinations, the Isle of Arran promises an unforgettable activity holiday for Scouts and Girlguiding. Bursting with breathtaking scenery at every turn, heart-racing adventure and immense history, the Isle of Arran offers a unique and close-to-home group getaway. Read on to find out more about this wonderful destination.

A Wild Adventure

The Isle of Arran is a premier destination for activity holidays for Scouts and Girl Guides. With such a variety of terrain, there’s an adventure waiting to be had! Here, groups can experience a thrilling mix of water sports, mountain exploration and nature in action.

Whether it’s kayaking or paddleboarding along the tranquil lakes, hiking or biking across a fell or gorge, or walking through natural pools. Embarking on an epic escapade full of exhilarating excursions is the best way to take in all the natural beauty the isle has to offer!

A landscape shaped by time

Located on the beautiful west coast of Scotland, this island is brimming with wonders of nature waiting to be discovered. Often called ‘Scotland in Miniature’, you’ll encounter a range of dramatic landscapes formed over millions of years.

The island is home to many impressive geological marvels, from the Highland Fault Line to mountains, glens and waterfalls, all of which have been moulded by glaciers melting and forming over the last 2.5 million years.

This has resulted in the Isle of Arran being awarded a UNESCO Global Geopark status as the landscape shows evidence of shifting continents, tectonic plate collisions, and the opening of the Atlantic Ocean. Each area of the island has recorded the past 600 million years of Earth’s history and ecosystems. While exploring the island, your group may uncover a dinosaur footprint, a fossilised lightning strike or spot wildlife in their natural habitats.

view of the Isle of Arran

A rich tapestry of history

For such a small island, Arran has a depth of history that has shaped the culture and landscapes we see today. The Isle of Arran has been inhabited since the Neolithic period, with remnants such as the Machrie Moor still standing. The area has also been influenced by the Viking Era, conflict within Scotland, depopulation in the 19th century and modern-day tourism. Key landmarks such as Brodick Castle, the medieval Lochranza Castle and the Neolithic Giant’s Graves offer young Scouts and Guides a fascinating insight into the layered past and bring history to life in a physical and meaningful way, one where they are bound to say ‘WOW’!

Scottish marching band at parade

Culture

When visiting the Isle of Arran, your group will be met with a warm welcome into the vibrant, tight-knit village communities. Traditions of both the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands can be seen and felt across the island, thanks to a thriving local arts, artisan and food scene, renowned for local produce, textiles, skincare and more. No matter what a visitor’s interest is, everyone can take a piece of Arran home with them.

Ready to give your group an unforgettable Scottish island adventure?

Speak to our team of friendly experts today and discover more about the Isle of Arran!

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