Day 10: New Galloway to Lochranza (Isle of Arran)

As we were aiming to get the 3.15pm ferry from Ardrossan to Isle of Arran 60miles away, we had an early-ish breakfast and were on on our way by 8.45am.

Weighed down by our breakfasts and the hilly Galloway route, the first 12miles were pretty slow and when we stopped for refreshments at Carsphairn, the likelihood of reaching the ferry in time seemed pretty slim.

However, the tailwind, the cool overcast conditions and generally downhill route meant that we reached Ayr on the coast in good time just before midday. Getting temporarily a little lost through the town centre , we continued along the coast to Prestwick and toasted sandwiches for lunch on seafront.

Cycled on the coastal path towards the numerous golf courses surrounding Troon including the famous Royal Troon GC.

Through the forgettable Irvine town centre, we arrived at the end of the urban metropolis at Ardrossan 30mins before departure. A comfortable ferry crossing helped by with a couple of pints before disapproving looks as we were last to leave the ferry on arrival into Brodick and the beautiful sunshine.

A quick stock up on provisions before we headed along the east coast towards Lochranza. A great coastal path passing pretty fishing villages of Corrie and Sannox before heading inland to the hills. Without a doubt this was my favourite part of the trip so far. A hard climb up to the centre of the island taking in the stunning peaks and views to the sea either side before a fantastic descent into Lochranza. A quick look around the castle before checking in with our hosts (ex-Londoners who had escaped the big smoke)
at a nice B+b two doors down from the local pub. A couple more beers and some grub we headed back in the still daylight at 930pm ready for the early start tomorrow.