SARAH MCKENZIE MYVEGGIETRAVELS

Being one of Scotland’s larger islands, there’s plenty of things to do on the Isle of Arran. Its proximity to the mainland means those short on time can visit most of the main attractions without

feeling rushed.

Leave the car at home. ScotRail’s Rail & Sail ticket takes you all the way from Glasgow to Brodick and means that, from Ardrossan, you simply hop on the CalMac ferry service across to Arran.

The island has a regular bus service, but I

recommend you try out an e-bike. Get your hands on one of these from Arran Bike Hire, just a few minutes from Brodick Pier. I was also thrilled to discover Arran caters to vegans. Stonewater House in Lamlash Bay is a beautiful waterside B&B that takes pride in vegan breakfasts.

Enjoy a day of castle hunting, starting with an easy

coastal stroll from Brodick Pier to Brodick Castle. After exploring, hop on a bus (or bike) to the ruined Lochranza Castle in the north. Look out for Pirnmill Church, a little blue place of worship on the road between Lochranza and Machrie. Arran is famous for its mysterious standing stone

circles on Machrie Moor, dating back as early as 1800BC. Goat Fell’s 874-metre peak is a favourite for climbers, or for less experienced ramblers who can enjoy the gentler lower slopes.

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Did you know that there are

111 train stations and

12,599 12,599

bus stops within 1km of mountains and moorland in Scotland? moorland in Scotland? So there’s no excuse not to get out and enjoy our stunning countryside! ONS, UK natural capital for mountains, moorlands and heath

53% of international visitors to the UK use the bus, tram or tube while visiting the UK with visitors to Scotland Scotland making up making up 40% of 40% of the total, the total, only behind only behind London

International International Passenger Passenger Survey 2013 Survey 2013

35% of British travellers use British travellers use public transport while public transport while visiting other parts of visiting other parts of the country that’s 13,000 overnight trips using sustainable travel

Great Britain Tourism Survey / VisitScotland

In Scotland, the ultimate playground, outdoor recreation was valued at £1.3 million

in 2017. From world- class watersports to walking, cycling to aqualining, the possibilities for getting possibilities for getting active in Scotland’s magnifi cent great outdoors are endless ONS, UK natural capital for mountains, moorlands and heath

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