We pit the breathtaking Scottish islands of Arran v Skye in the ultimate scenic trip contest
A WEALTH of delights await you in the beautiful Scottish islands of Arran and Skye.
Stone circles and unspoilt beaches, red deer and glorious walks in dramatic mountain scenery lie in wait on the bonny Isle of Arran as well as steak, beer, cheese and chocolate to keep you fuelled while you explore all its attractions. Meanwhile in Skye you can try delicious Scottish salmon, sip on single malts aplenty and soak up stunning views across the lochs.
Arran
WITH easy access from Glasgow, there’s wildlife aplenty, beaut beaches, glorious walks and bags of local produce, too, so come hungry!
The Pad: Right next to the ferry terminal in Brodick, family-owned has the best location on Arran.
Expect bay windows with views of Brodick Bay and across to Goatfell, the island’s highest point.
Rooms are spacious with big bathrooms and super-friendly service.
Out & about: Drive across the String Road from Brodick to Machrie Moor for the walk out to some impressive standing stone circles, then explore the south with its beaches at Torrylinn and Kildonan and views over to volcano Ailsa Craig.
The next day, head north for dramatic mountain scenery, red deer spotting and the hike up towering Goatfell. The island is great for a wildlife safari – we saw dozens of deer, and an eagle practically flew into our car!
Refuel: Take a seat by the fire for dinner at The Drift Inn in Lamlash and order steaks supplied by the Arran Butcher, £24, and a local cheeseboard, £8.95 ().
Don’t leave the island without stocking up on goodies, either.
Arran Fine Foods has mustards and chutneys (), James of Arran makes delicious chocolates (), and you can pick up beers at Arran Brewery ().
Book it: Double rooms start from £90 B&B ().
Ferries from Ardrossan to Brodick cost £7.50 return ().
Skye
THIS dramatic isle is known for soaring mountains and the bridge linking it to the mainland.
Drive on over for Highland scenery and incredible seafood.
The Pad: With only three rooms at Hillstone Lodge, you get plenty of personal attention from owners Russell and Patrice and dog Inca.
This stylish B&B is all white walls, wooden floors and glass, making the most of the stunning views over Loch Dunvegan and out to Harris.
Breakfast includes peat-smoked salmon, croissants and freshly brewed coffee, plus complimentary home-made cakes arrive in your room every day - yum!
Out & about: Do a circuit of the Trotternish peninsula in the north for eye-popping scenery.
Walk up to the Old Man of Storr rock and stop at waterfalls and the “pleated” Kilt Rock, then hike through the other-worldly Quiraing that starred in the 2015 film Macbeth.
From Elgol, take a boat to the freshwater Loch Coruisk at the heart of the Cuillin mountains, £28 ().
Refuel: At Three Chimneys, a few minutes from Hillstone Lodge, splash out on the tasting menu, £95 for eight courses of Skye produce like langoustine, crab, scallop and deer ().
Take a tour of the Talisker distillery, £10, at Carbost and taste fiery single malts – and if you buy a bottle, you get your £10 back.
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Book it: Double rooms cost from £140 B&B ().
The Skye Bridge is free, and the nearest airport is Inverness.