Isle of Arran Walking Trails - The best walking & hiking guide

Discovering the Isle of Arran on Foot: A Guide to the Island's Best Walking Trails

The Isle of Arran, nestled off the west coast of Scotland, is a haven for walkers and hikers seeking to explore its varied landscapes. Affectionately known as "Scotland in Miniature," the island offers a microcosm of the mainland's most iconic scenery, from rugged mountains and ancient forests to sweeping coastlines and charming villages. With a wide range of walking trails to suit all abilities, the Isle of Arran provides a breathtaking backdrop for your next adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the island's best walking and hiking routes, ensuring an unforgettable experience for both casual strollers and seasoned trekkers. So here at This Must Be The Place, we’ve decided to compile just a few of the most popular and enjoyable treks and walks Arran has to offer.

1. Goatfell and Glen Rosa Loop

Distance: 10 miles (16 km) Difficulty: Challenging

Goatfell, the highest peak on the Isle of Arran, is a must-climb for avid hikers. The mountain stands at 2,867 feet (874 meters) and offers panoramic views of the island and beyond. The classic route begins in Brodick, following the well-trodden path up through the wooded slopes and onto the exposed, rocky summit.

For a more challenging and rewarding experience, combine your Goatfell ascent with the Glen Rosa Loop. After descending from the summit, continue along the ridge towards North Goatfell, then drop down into the breathtaking Glen Rosa. This glacial valley boasts crystal-clear pools, cascading waterfalls, and an array of wildlife, providing a serene contrast to the rugged mountain terrain.

2. Machrie Moor Stone Circles

Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km) Difficulty: Easy

The Machrie Moor Stone Circles walk is perfect for history enthusiasts and those seeking a leisurely stroll through the island's mystical past. This relatively flat trail leads you across the moorland to a collection of six Bronze Age stone circles. These ancient monuments, some of which date back over 4,000 years, provide a fascinating insight into the island's prehistoric inhabitants. The walk also offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and the Kilbrannan Sound.

3. The Arran Coastal Way

Distance: 65 miles (104 km) Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

The Arran Coastal Way is an exhilarating long-distance walking route that circumnavigates the island, showcasing its diverse coastal landscapes. This challenging, multi-day trek takes you through secluded bays, dramatic cliffs, dense forests, and picturesque villages. While the entire route can be completed in 7 to 11 days, it can also be broken down into shorter sections, allowing walkers to tackle the trail at their own pace.

Highlights of the Arran Coastal Way include the King's Cave, believed to be the refuge of Robert the Bruce; the ruins of Lochranza Castle; and the stunning white sands of Sannox Bay.

4. Glen Sannox Horseshoe

Distance: 9 miles (14.5 km) Difficulty: Challenging

The Glen Sannox Horseshoe is a classic hillwalking route in the north of the Isle of Arran, providing experienced walkers with a challenging and rewarding day out. This circular route traverses several peaks, including the iconic Castles, a series of granite pinnacles that require some scrambling to navigate. The trail also takes in the summit of Cir Mhor, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

5. Kildonan to Lagg Coastal Walk

Distance: 5 miles (8 km) Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

The Kildonan to Lagg Coastal Walk explores the scenic southern coast of the Isle of Arran. This easy-to-moderate trail follows a combination of quiet country roads, coastal paths, and sandy beaches. Along the way, you'll pass by the picturesque Kildonan Castle ruins, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea, and the stunning Bennan Head, with its dramatic sea cliffs.

Keep an eye out for the island's diverse wildlife, including seals basking on the rocks, otters playing in the shallows, and a wide variety of seabirds. As you approach the village of Lagg, be sure to visit the beautiful Silver Sands, a secluded beach perfect for a refreshing swim or a relaxing picnic, making it the ideal route for those looking for a relaxed stay on Arran.

6. Clauchlands and Corriegills Circular

Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km) Difficulty: Moderate

The Clauchlands and Corriegills Circular walk begins in the bustling town of Brodick, taking you through lush forests and rolling countryside to the coast, with stunning views across the Firth of Clyde. The well-marked trail passes by Brodick Castle, a former stronghold of the Dukes of Hamilton, now managed by the National Trust for Scotland.

As you climb through the woodland, you'll reach the Clauchland Hills, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including Holy Isle and the Ayrshire coast. The descent back to Brodick takes you along the picturesque Corriegills coastline, providing a pleasant contrast to the earlier woodland terrain.

7. North Glen Sannox Woodland Walk

Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km) Difficulty: Easy

The North Glen Sannox Woodland Walk is a delightful, family-friendly route that meanders through the ancient oakwoods of Glen Sannox. The trail begins at the North Sannox car park and follows the Sannox Burn upstream through the atmospheric forest. Along the way, you'll encounter a variety of native flora and fauna, as well as fascinating geological features, such as the "Blue Pool," a deep, crystal-clear pool formed by the erosive power of the burn.

The walk is relatively flat and well-maintained, making it an ideal choice for walkers of all ages and abilities, making it ideal for families planning a holiday to Arran.

8. Lochranza and Newton Point

Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km) Difficulty: Easy

Starting from the picturesque village of Lochranza, this easy, circular walk takes you along the coast to Newton Point, offering stunning views of the Kilbrannan Sound, Kintyre Peninsula, and the iconic Lochranza Castle. The trail follows a mix of quiet roads, grassy paths, and pebble beaches, providing a gentle introduction to the island's coastal landscapes.

As you make your way around the point, keep an eye out for wildlife, including seals, seabirds, and even the occasional basking shark. The walk is suitable for all ages and is particularly popular with birdwatchers and photographers.

With its diverse and captivating landscapes, the Isle of Arran offers a wealth of walking and hiking opportunities for visitors. From leisurely strolls along the coast to challenging mountain ascents, there's a trail to suit every ability and interest. So, lace up your walking boots and prepare to discover the natural beauty of Arran during your stay. If you have any questions relating to this blog or Arran, feel free to get in touch with us today.