Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran lies in the Firth of Clyde, more or less right out the coast from Glasgow. It is often called a Scotland in miniature, but then again, pretty much any island on the west coast tries that little trick. Still, it's a very pretty island and also very peaceful and quiet. I drove literally around the whole island today, and traffic was extremely light - I actually drove the whole west coast without passing or being passed, or indeed seeing another car in my lane.

The locals are very friendly, whether they're natives or transplants from the mainland or even Sassenachs. I've had some good talks with people in the hotel pub, both employees and guests. Lots of salty, Scottish language and direct humor. I've said it before and I'll say it again - nobody can swear with such care and warmth as the Scots. When they call you a cunt they'll say it with an almost tender inflection.

A few sentences on the hotel; it is called the Lagg Hotel. It's on the southern tip of the isle and traces its beginnings to 1791 - that's right, I am staying in a hotel as old as the US Bill of Rights. That's when parts of the current building were constructed, originally as a station for trading horses and receiving post and such and such (the hotel lies down in a dump in the landscape right by a stream which not too many years ago held Atlantic salmon). The reception used to be the kitchen and the pub used to be the stables. There's been a settlement here since the 1400s, according to the landlord. Makes your head spin.

I've had plenty opportunity to take pics these last few days. Sadly, the autumn colors have not turned out in full force yet, but any day now... any day... With the roads being what they are, I've got plenty of photos of winding asphalt, though. Feast yer eyes!

All Arran pics here.

Pretty place on the west coast.


Winding road on the southwest coast.


Tree by the road in the southwest.


A tiny island just off the south coast of Arran.


This is from the middle part of the island.


This also from the central parts.


The ruins of a castle on the northwest coast.


Coming down the road from the west to the east coast. This area is so pretty.


The mountains just north of Brodick on the central east coast. I believe the tallest mountain is called Goat Fell.


On the southeastern tip.


The stream beside the hotel.


The hotel.


The reception.