Island hopping in the Firth of Clyde
Four West Scottish Islands in one tour
The West Scottish Isles are a must for any nature lover. Are you ready for an unforgettable travel experience? Then you should include this unique destination in your travel plans! For your Scotland trip, simply book a comfortable overnight crossing with DFDS from IJmuiden to Newcastle and travel to Glasglow in less than 3 hours. If you book your crossing now, you will receive a 20% discount with our early booking offer!
The scenic island region is one of Scotland's finest treasures and offers something for everyone. Discover historic sites such as Rothesay and Tarbert Castles, sample the fantastic regional whiskey and immerse yourself in the beauty of the diverse landscape on the Isle of Arran. Whether you want to walk, game or cycle, Firth of Clyde has it all. Our partner CalMac is an expert in island hopping and offers you a 6-day tour including 5 ferry crossings where you can experience new adventures.
An overview of your trip
Arrival / Day 1 - Your Scotland adventure begins aboard the DFDS IJmuiden-Newcastle ferry. Arrive in northern England by car in the morning and begin your exploration of Scotland with a drive to Glasgow.
Days 2 & 3 - After an overnight stay, your ferry journey to the Isle of Arran begins at Ardrossan Harbour, approximately 1 hour from Glasgow. From campsites to luxury lodges, B&Bs and hotels, there is accommodation to suit every budget on your tour.
Day 4 – Check-out and departure by ferry from Lochranza (Arran) to Claonaig (Kintyre). Visit Tarbert Castle here before traveling on from Tarbert (Kintyre) to Portavadie (Cowal).
Day 5 – Check-out and drive to Colintraive (Cowal). Take time to enjoy the view of Loch Ruel. Then depart in the morning for the onward ferry ride to Rhubodach (Bute). From the harbor in Rothesay (Bute) you take the ferry back to the mainland in the afternoon and drive to Glasgow.
Day 6 / Departure – Return from Glasgow to Newcastle and depart with DFDS to IJmuiden.
Breathtaking experiences in the Firth of Clyde
Also known as "Scotland in miniature", the Isle of Arran offers a varied landscape of mountains, beaches and forests. It is a popular destination for walking and cycling and for spotting wildlife such as seals. Visit the thousand year old Machrie Moor stone circle and enjoy Scottish cuisine in the local restaurants. Brodick Castle and the local whiskey distilleries are also worth checking out.
Kintyre is a narrow peninsula extending into the Firth of Clyde. It is known for its rugged coastline and the royal Tarbert Castle. Taste Campbeltown's whiskey and admire the view of Northern Ireland from the southern tip.
The Cowal Peninsula has beautiful scenery of lochs, mountains and forests and is great for walking. Discover the view of Loch Fyne or relax in the spa.
Isle of Bute is known for the majestic Rothesay Castle and the idyllic Rothesay Winter Gardens. Be sure to visit Mount Stuart Castle and take beach walks along the coast of Ettrick Bay.
Glasgow as a starting point for your island trip
It doesn't have to stop at the West Scottish Isles in the Firth of Clyde. If you're looking to tour Scotland, why not plan a longer break with a city break to the great Scottish city of Glasgow!
Travel from Newcastle to Glasgow and spend a day and night in the bustling city before embarking on your journey to the islands with CalMac. In Glasgow, beautiful sights await you such as the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum or the famous Ashton Lane in Glasgow's West End, known for its special atmosphere with cobbled streets and romantic lights. Glasgow is also always worth a city break for its Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet and National Theater of Scotland.
