This itinerary is ideal for you if you'd prefer a bit more challenging adventure featuring some stretching wals. We'll be covering up to 10.5 miles (17 km) per day. Additionally, a private minibus and all dinners are included in this version!
Welcome to the isle of Arran, one of Scotland’s most accessible islands, just southwest of Glasgow! With only 5,000 inhabitants, it’s still relatively remote and it’s not crowded. So if you’re looking for a relaxing holiday with awe-inspiring views while simultaneously avoiding lots of people on trails, this 6-day adventure is for you! This all-women trip includes accommodation, all meals, a private minibus, and expert guidance by an experienced guide.
We arrive in Brodick and check in to our hotel from mid-afternoon. Our guide is around from late afternoon and meets everyone at Dunvegan House for a welcome briefing before we head out together for dinner at a local restaurant. If time allows, we can enjoy a relaxed wander around Brodick, taking in the seafront, local sights, and browsing the village shops, including the well-known outdoor clothing store on the promenade.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Dunvegan House
We set off into Glen Rosa, a broad U-shaped glacial valley framed by granite slopes and open moorland. The steady climb draws us deeper into wild mountain scenery as we ascend toward Cir Mhòr (799 m), whose striking pyramid shape dominates the Arran skyline. From the corrie edge, we continue onto A’Chir (749 m), following a long rocky ridge that feels remote and dramatic, with short sections where we may use our hands for balance. We descend back through the quiet of Glen Rosa, following the mountain burn as the valley slowly opens.
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 16.7 km (10.3 mi)
Elevation gain: 1,058 m (3,471 ft)
Accommodation: Dunvegan House
Today we tackle Goatfell, Arran’s highest peak, choosing the best route depending on the weather and conditions. Starting near Corrie, we follow an open glen that gradually rises from wooded paths into wide moorland, with views expanding across the island. The ascent becomes steeper near the ridge, with short rocky sections adding interest before we reach the summit. From the top, we enjoy expansive views across Arran, the Clyde, and beyond, before descending by a varied route back toward Corrie.
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 8 km (5 mi)
Elevation gain: 840 m (2,756 ft)
Accommodation: Dunvegan House
We begin at the ferry terminal in Brodick and follow the coastal track, passing fields and shoreline as we head toward Clauchlands Point. The route crosses marshy sections and stepping-stones before climbing gently to the viewpoint, where we pause to enjoy views across Lamlash Bay and Holy Island. From here, we descend into the village of Lamlash for refreshments. The return route takes us through the shaded woodland of the Fairy Glen before quiet lanes lead us back down to Brodick’s seafront, completing a varied and scenic circuit.
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 14 km (8.6 mi)
Elevation gain: 245 m (804 ft)
Accommodation: Dunvegan House
We travel north to the wild and mountainous end of Arran and begin our walk in Lochranza, taking time to explore the white-washed ruins of Lochranza Castle across the water. From the shoreline, the path rises gently through farmland before climbing onto open moorland, where sea views stretch toward the Clyde islands. After reaching the high point, we descend toward Laggan Cottage, enjoying a strong sense of remoteness. The return follows the rugged coastline back to Lochranza, offering excellent views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 12 km (7.4 mi)
Elevation gain: 320 m (1,050 ft)
Accommodation: Dunvegan House
After enjoying our final breakfast at the lovely Dunvegan House, we’ll head out for a morning walk, so make sure you book a flight after 2 pm. If you’d like to keep on exploring the area, just ask us for some recommendations!
Meals: Breakfast
Included:
Not included:
There are two itineraries to choose from when it comes to the Isle of Arran walking holidays. You don’t need to be an athlete, but a reasonable level of fitness and enjoyment of walking is important.
Beginner itinerary
This option is suitable for anyone who is comfortable with regular walking. Daily walks are generally between 5–8 miles (8-13 km) at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to stop and enjoy the views. There are some hills, but they are taken steadily and without rushing. The terrain includes good, firm paths along beaches, through woods, and into the mountainous north of the island, with some uneven footpaths.
Intermediate itinerary
This option is designed for more confident walkers who want to explore more of Arran and enjoy longer, more demanding days. Walks are up to 10.5 miles (17 km) with significantly more ascent and occasional rocky sections. The pace is steady but days are longer and climbs are more sustained.
If you’re unsure which level is right for you, think about how comfortable you are walking for several hours on consecutive days and tackling hills. We’re always happy to help you choose the itinerary that will be most enjoyable for you.
For more adventures in Scotland, click here! Looking to discover more women-only trips? Discover them here!
If you’d like to combine this with another fantastic hiking adventure, check out All-Women Walking Trip on the Isle of Bute!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
While wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, the Isle of Arran is rich in diverse habitats that support a variety of wildlife. An experienced guide will take you to areas where you have the best chances of seeing animals such as otters, seals, squirrels, and possibly even golden eagles. The natural beauty of the island itself, combined with the potential for wildlife encounters, makes every walk a memorable experience!
Group sizes and pricing
Isle of Arran walking holidays can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The default accommodation for this adventure is a solo occupancy room! Rooms are either twin or double and are provided for your own use. If you’re travelling with a partner or friend and would like to share a room, this can be selected at checkout, where a shared-room discount will be applied.
The Isle of Arran is just southwest of Glasgow, so to get there, it’s best to first fly into Glasgow Airport (GLA). Then you can board a train to reach Ardrossan Harbour—trains run from Glasgow Central to Ardrossan Harbour every hour or so. The journey takes around 50 minutes and it’s very cheap to reach Ardrossan by train!
Once in Ardrossan Harbour, you can either get on the ferry by foot or you can go with your car—in this case, make sure to book well in advance. Alternatively, you can park your car at the port. The ferry will take you on a 55-minute ride to Brodick, the starting point of your trip.
Make sure to arrive by 3 pm for a check-in and orientation guide on Day 1 of the tour.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.
Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.