Of all the wildly enchanting islands and atolls scattered off the west Scottish mainland, the Isle of Arran is arguably the most magnificently varied of these rocky outcrops. Scythed in half by the subterranean Highland Boundary Fault, this easily navigable 19 mile long island boasts a remarkable diversity of sea, rock and wild grassland. To the south, undulating countryside and vibrant coastal pockets are offset against the distinctive sills and dykes – remnants of the natural forces which shaped this land. While to the north, dramatic mountains borne of primordial battles between fire and ice are awash with vibrant Scottish heather.
Nestled within a weather-bitten chunk of the island’s northern tip, Lochranza is a fishing village of such picture-postcard perfection, it’s almost absurd. Situated on the shores of a small sea loch, the village plays hosts to not only a 13th century castle and cluster of friendly B&Bs, but also the ideally situated and far more rewarding resting place of Lochranza Camping and Caravanning Site.
On a spacious flat clearing, hugged lovingly by towering, lush glens, Lochranza is a one of the regions most scenic spots to pitch up. A scattering of informal grassy spaces provide the perfect place to pop your tent and soak up the views, while a handful of new, insulated pods offer something comfortable to visitors travelling light. The site is abuzz with wildlife (including an inquisitive red deer population) making it a firm favourite with bird watchers and, no doubt, helping it win the Gold Award from Green Tourism in 2017, and there is a wealth of heritage, history and cultural trips to be enjoyed nearby. What’s more, the campsite boasts a 9 hole, par 34 golf course and a whisky distillery within easy ambling distance. What more could you ask for?
There are loads of short walks to be had right around Arran’s varied coast and on the dramatic mountain ridges, including up the beautiful Goatfell. For something far longer, the Arran Coastal Way can be accomplished within a week. Arran is now a geopark and Lochranza's geology is recognised the world over, for it is here that pioneering earth scientist James Hutton made some of the field's most important discoveries. The sheer variety of Lochranza's rock types and formations will astound the amateur enthusiast and expert alike. Whisky afficionados should head to the Isle of Arran Distillery (01770 830264) to sample some of the island's famous single malt. If cheese is more your thing, pop along to the Arran Cheese Shop (01770 302 788) to see the island's second most famous export being waxed with artisan care. The area also boasts the Machrie Moor Stone Circles, Kings Caves and 13th century Lochranza Castle – the inspiration for one of Tintin's adventures. For a flavour of traditional Scotland, visitors in August can check out the Brodick Highland Games. There's also daily ferries to Kintyre.
Opposite the onsite golf course, you'll find the popular Stags Paviliion restaurant (01770 830600) open in the evenings – it's BYOB. The Sandwich Station (07810 796248 ) takeaway on Lochranza Pier does great snacks and light bites plus their deli stocks a great selection of local produce. The Arran Butcher (01770 830674)is unbeatable for all your carnivorous needs. The Isle of Arran Distillery has the Casks Café (01770 830264) where you can enjoy looking out for golden eagles. Lochranza Hotel Boguillie Bar (01770 830223) has a whisky for every day of the year and offers tasty home-cooked bar food including fish and chips and venison pie and chips.