Walking the Inner Hebrides, Arran, Islay and Jura

Walking information

Walks on this holiday are on village streets, country lanes, farm tracks and rural paths. Walking boots are essential. Walking poles are recommended.

Day 1: Arrival in Brodick

Take the local ferry from Ardrossan to arrive on the Isle of Arran, at the start of your Scottish adventure. Brodick is the main village on the island and the location of the ferry port. Brodick Castle is definitely worth a visit, the once home of the Duke of Hamilton and full of antique furniture and period pieces. Spend a relaxing evening at your hotel in Brodick, after sampling a meal at one of the many eateries in the town.

Overnight at Hunters Guesthouse, Brodick (or similar).
Breakfast included.

Day 2:Brodick to Sannox 13km / 8 mi

Your first walk will see you leaving the town and venturing along the Fisherman's Walk to Cladach. Most visitors choose this point to climb to the summit of Goatfell, which is recommended for fit and experienced walkers only and is the highest on the island at 874m. The other option is to take the lower route through Merkland Wood through High Corrie and from there onto the coastal route to arrive at Corrie, your stopping place for the night.

Overnight at Corrie Hotel, Corrie (or similar).
Breakfast included.

Day 3: Sannox to Lochranza 15km/ 9mi

Today's section of the Arran Coastal Way is one of the best, with lovely coastal views towards Bute and Ayrshire in the distance. Leaving Sannox, the route travels through woods and across a few burns before reaching the North Sannox Burn, with stunning views of Cioch na h-Oighe behind and a great place to spot porpoise, seals and dolphins. When you reach Laggan Cottage, the route becomes rocky and boggy in places before passing the Cock of Arran and then onto Lochranza with good views of the castle. Make sure you look out for herons and seals that can usually be spotted here.

Overnight at Butt Lodge, Lochranza (or similar).
Breakfast included.

Day 4: Lochranza to Port Ellen, Isle of Islay

This morning you will take the ferry crossing to Claonaig, followed by a short transfer to Kennacraig, and your onward ferry to Port Ellen, on the Isle of Islay. Once you arrive, the day is yours to explore this famous whiskey producing island. Port Ellen is the largest town and has a lovely marina, few shops and restaurants along with the Ardview Inn, the only pub on the island! Visit the world famous Laphroaig distillery, take a public bus to one of the other villages or a leisurely walk amongst the pristine sands.

Overnight at Askernish, Port Ellen (or similar).
Breakfast included.

Day 5: Port Ellen to Jura

Taking the morning bus to Port Askaig, then a short ferry will see you arriving on the island of Jura. Populated mostly by deer, the island is a wealth of natural beauty, with Craighouse being the centre for most inhabitants. The terrain is rugged and wild, with miles of open moorland to explore. Despite the close proximity to Glasgow, only 60 miles away, it feels truly remote and extremely peaceful. After your journey from Islay, you may wish to take a more gentle walk today, there are plenty to choose from, leaving at Craighouse itself, saving your energy for the last day and the famous Paps of Jura tomorrow! Or visit the Isle of Jura distillery, rebuilt in the 1960's after years of inactivity, the pride and joy of the community. Also, not to be missed is the world's third largest whirlpool, The Corryvreckan, situated in the north of the island.

Overnight at Jura Hotel (or similar).
Breakfast included.

Day 6: Jura

Today we recommend you try the unforgettable Paps of Jura, a classic Scottish hill walk and a challenging end to your weeks holiday. Located in the south of the island, the three peaks provide the perfect location for a varied and exciting walk, opportunities for bird watching and incredible views to numerous islands as well as the mainland.

Overnight at Jura Hotel (or similar).
Breakfast included.

Day 7: Depart Jura

Depart your hotel this morning to begin your journey home. The ferry from Port Askaig will take you back to Kennacraig and from there you can either drive or take the train back to Glasgow and your onward journey. Why not add on a few extra days to make the most of the many activities and attractions of these wonderful islands.

Please ask at time of booking for extra days.