Arran is often described as  "Scotland in Miniature" due to its varied and picturesque landscape. The north of the island is stunningly grand and mountainous while the south is much gentler with rolling hills, farmland and wide sandy beaches. Arran has 10 peaks over 2000 feet; the highest of these is Goatfell at 2,866 feet.

The island is a paradise for hill-walkers, climbers and geologists. For those interested in archaeology there is much of interest to found. There are numerous chambered cairns from the New Stone Age, stone cists and impressive monoliths and stone circles (such as those on Machrie Moor) from the Bronze Age, Iron Age forts and Viking graves.

There are three castles on the island – Brodick, Lochranza and Kildonan. At Brodick Castle and Gardens you can enjoy guided tours through the castle, ranger tours of the extensive grounds, beautiful gardens (famed for their rhododendron collection), tearoom and an adventure playground.

The wildlife on Arran is wonderful. Herds of red deer roam the hillsides, many species of birds including golden eagles can be sighted, and seals are a common attraction around the shores where porpoises and basking sharks also visit. The flora on the island is equally impressive.

Arran is a superb playground for those feeling energetic. Apart from walking and climbing, there are off-road cycle tracks, 7 golf courses (including the famous 12 hole Shiskine Course), quad biking, pony trekking, tennis, bowling, fishing, swimming and many exciting activities both off and onshore offered by the Arran Adventure Company.

For those looking for a more relaxing time then just take pleasure in the wonderful scenery, the pretty villages and the slower pace of island life. There are craft shops, galleries, cheese factories, potteries, a chocolate factory, brewery, distillery, and a museum to visit and plenty of tearooms, restaurants and pubs to see you through your holiday.

Children love Arran. As well as enjoying the freedom of the beaches and countryside there are many places such as the Brodick Castle adventure playground and the Balmichael Centre which they will want to return to again and again.

During the summer most of the villages have their own gala days or fun weeks and Brodick Highland Games in August is one of the highlights of Arran’s calendar.