If you're looking for stunning scenery and intriguing history, the Ayrshire Coastal Path is the long distance path for you.
Start your journey from Glenapp, in the south of Ayrshire, and enjoy the spectacular views of the Isle of Arran, the Firth of Clyde and Ailsa Craig. Then take in all that is breathtaking along the way until you reach Skelmorlie, 100 miles and between 5-10 days later.
The route, which was opened in 2008, follows varied topography, which all adds to the experience; shore terrain, farm tracks, promenades, even an old railway track offer the perfect complement to the coastal views. There are also great opportunities for spotting local wildlife along the way.
Start your route by walking north. As you travel along cliff tops and old turnpike roads you'll feel like you're going back in time. Spot ruined castles in their glorious settings and stroll though small fishing villages. You'll also pass the Open Championship golf course at Turnberry and one of Scotland's finest treasures, Culzean Castle.
From Ayr the route gets gentler on your feet as you move along sandy beaches, passing Prestwick the birthplace of the Open Golf Championship. From Ardossan to Largs the route will be calmer on your eyes as you stroll past the sailing yachts that glide effortlessly along the Firth of Clyde.
Glenapp Kirk to Lendalfoot
This section walks you through a fabulously historic part of Scotland, which is rich in prehistoric interest and historical facts. You'll spot manmade cairns, which were used as landmarks and see solitary standing stones along your route.
If you fancy a stop off then there's Ardstinchar Castle and the reputedly haunted, Carleton Castle. And if you want to contrast the beauty with a beast then you can learn about the cannibal Sawney Bean and his family who often preyed on unsuspecting passers-by. Luckily for you they lived in the 18th century.
Lendalfoot to Maidens
The path then continues past the RAF memorial as well as the shipwreck memorial at Turnberry. You'll also pass the site of Turnberry Castle, which is deeply associated with Robert the Bruce. It was his sacred birthplace which he had destroyed in 1310 so that the English could never claim it. At Girvan Mains you'll be able to wander through a Roman Camp before finishing your day at Turnberry Lighthouse, a spot known for many a shipwreck.
Maidens to Ayr
This coastline was famous for smuggling in the 18th century. It's also a great place to take out the camera and snap the ruin of Dunure Castle and the majestic Culzean Castle, which attracts visitors from all around. Finish off this stretch in Alloway, which is the birthplace of Robert Burns. If you are a big fan then visit St. John's Church Tower where Bruce had his first seat in Parliament.
Ayr to Irvine
There's plenty to feast your eyes on here. Visit Lady Cathcart's House which was the birthplace of the man who revolutionised road construction, John Loudoun McAdam. Or check out Loudoun Hall, which is Ayr's oldest house. Or if you're looking for more action there's the military Seagate Castle in Irvine.
Irvine to Ardrossan
This is where you'll find Saltcoats harbour. The name is derived from the industry it was known for - harvesting salt. If you stop off in the seaside resort of Ardossan you'll find the North Ayrshire local museum where you can find out more about the other industries that once flourished there.
Ardrossan to Largs
You can tell that this coastline has always been a popular base with all the buildings to visit. In fact it might be worth spending a little more time here to take it all in. If you like castles and forts then you'll find your fix here. Portencross Hill Fort, Portencross Castle and Spanish Galleon, Fairlie Castle, Hunterston Castle and Kelburn Castle are all worth a look around.
Largs to Skelmorlie
Largs is a popular place to visit and there's loads to do. You'll find it's steeped in history. There's the Viking Visitor Centre and the Iron Age fort to marvel at. There's also The Prophets Grave where the local minister at the time of the plague was buried. According to local folklore, if the two yew trees at the grave's entrance ever join up, the plague will come back. Further on at Skelmorlie you'll find the Skelmorlie Aisle, an elaborately carved stone tomb erected in 1636.
For further route information, visit the Ayrshire Coastal Path website.
