Arran

Friday, midday

Check into the family-owned Auchrannie Resort (doubles from £125, www.auchrannie.com), which impresses with its three restaurants, twin pools and ASPA spa. The House Hotel is best for couples; the Spa Resort is spot on if you’ve got kids.

1pm

Drive or cycle north looking out for red deer and golden eagles in Arran’s Highlands en route to the village of Lochranza. The revamped café at the Arran Distillery (www.arranwhisky.com) tempts with venison burgers and sharing platters that showcase Arran’s superb local produce.

4pm

The rugged ruin of Lochranza Castle is glorious as are the views, so drift down here by the water’s edge. Look out for seals and basking sharks.

7pm

Head back south to Brodick for dinner at the Douglas (www. thedouglashotel.co.uk). Local hot smoked salmon is the star of their recommended linguine main. The views of Goatfell are breathtaking.

Saturday, 9:30am

Head for Brodick Castle (www. nts.org.uk), one of Scotland’s most impressive historic properties. Explore the lush grounds and their exotic flora, looking out for red squirrels. Kids love the new Isle Be Wild adventure playground.

1pm

Enjoy a simple lunch of Arran Dunlop cheese spiced up with Arran chutney at the castle café.

2pm

The 65-mile Arran Coastal Way was recognised as one of Scotland’s Great Trails by Scottish Natural Heritage this year. Arguably the most scenic stretch is from Lamlash over Dun Fionn to Brodick. Catch the bus to Lamlash and you can savour epic views all the way back.

5pm

Arran boasts a string of fine beaches. Brodick’s main strand can be a bit hit or miss, so head further north around the bay to the Fisherman’s Beach.

7pm

Enjoy a dip back at the Auchrannie before Arran lamb or West Coast seafood at the hotel’s Brambles Seafood Restaurant & Grill.

Sunday, 9am

Indulge in a massage at Auchrannie’s spa or immerse yourself in nature following the trail that heads inland up Glen Cloy from the resort. ■

Calmac (www.calmac.co.uk) operate

ferries to Arran from Ardrossan in Ayrshire and Claonaig on Kintyre, www.visitarran.com