Firth of Clyde, Scotland

Great for a short break, day trip, or part of a ferry island hopping experience, Caledonian MacBrayne operates frequent ferry services around the islands and peninsulas in the Firth of Clyde.  Discover the isles of Arran, Bute and Cumbrae and the peninsulas of Cowal and Rosneath. Enjoy walking, cycling, stunning scenery and the fascinating history of this area which became a popular tourist destination in Victorian times, particularly with Glaswegians, who travelled “doon the watter” on Clyde steamers to holiday in the picturesque seaside towns and villages.

Highlights include the hike up to Goat Fell on the Isle of Arran, a pedal around the 10-mile Cumbrae cycle tour and a visit to Benmore Botanic Garden on the Cowal Peninsula and Linn Botanic Garden on Rosneath Peninsula. If you are visiting at the end of August don’t miss the fun of biggest Highland Games in the world – the Cowal Highland Gathering. Historic attractions include Brodick Castle and the ancient Machrie Moor Standing Stones on Arran and Mount Stuart on Bute and for those wanting to try the local tipple Lochranza Distillery on the Isle of Arran produces a number of Single Malt whiskies.