Holy Isle, Arran

Introduction

This evening, I am posting information on Holy Isle which can be found in the Firth of Clyde, near Isle of Arran, Scotland.

Holy Isle, Firth of Clyde. Taken from Isle of Arran

Information on Holy Isle

This island has a long history of spiritual significance, viz:

  • Originally called Inis Shroin (House of the Water Spirit), the island later became the home of early Christian, Saint Molaise (circa 6th/7th centuries AD). He lived in a cave, which has since been named after him.
  • Now owned by the Samye Ling Buddhist Community who have established the Centre for World Peace and Health on the north of the island.

Dimensions: About 3 kilometres (1.86 miles) long and 1 kilometre (0.62 miles) wide, dominated by the rocky Marilyn of Mullach Mor (314m).

Access: Via ferry from the Lamlash Pier, Arran. Journey takes about ten minutes.

Hiking: With no roads walking is the only way to get around. For serious hikers there is a fairly strenuous walk leading up to the summit of Marilyn of Mullach Mor, returning via the easy shoreline path.

Etymology: The original (Gaelic) name was Eilean mo Laise a contraction of which has been adopted by the coastal village on Arran opposite of Lamlash.

Visitors: Overnight guests are welcome to stay at the Centre for World Peace and Health, which has guest house facilities.

Holy Isle from Isle of Arran, Scotland

Summary

Overall, Arran has much to offer the visitor, whether contemplating a short, within –the–day trip or an extended sojourn lasting a week or longer.

For more information on Arran, other Scottish islands and sightseeing in Scotland please refer to the Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4. This publication is also available via Kindle.

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