Ayrshire Island Duet

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service, then to the Riverside Lodge in Ayrshire for four nights.

Board the morning ferry for the ¾ hour crossing to Arran, Scotland’s seventh largest island and known as 'Scotland in Miniature'.

First stop is Baronial Brodick Castle and Gardens, dating back to the 13th century. The setting for the castle is stunning – fronted by the sea, surrounded by hills and overlooked by the mountain of Goat Fell.

Built on the site of a Viking fortress, its history dates back centuries. The Castle is packed full of treasures, boasts impressive gardens overlooking the Firth of Clyde, and has recently re-opened after a £1.5m restoration.

Free time in Brodick before a scenic tour around the island taking in the sea views over to Kintyre and south towards Ailsa Craig or 'Paddy’s Milestone'.

We head first to Troon with its long beach and promenade walks.

Afternoon tour visiting Ayr before heading to the pretty village of Alloway with time to roam the home of Scotland’s most famous poet – Robert Burns. Heading south along the coast, take in the sea views across the Firth to Arran. Experience the mysterious Electric Brae as you pass Culzean Castle.

We make a stop for photos at the famous Trump Turnberry Hotel and Ailsa Craig Island.

This morning, we head along the Firth of Clyde to Wemyss Bay, where we join the ferry over to Rothesay, with free time to explore this Victorian resort, with its gardens, shoreline walks and pleasant eateries.

Later, the day continues with a tour of the island, which is 15 miles long and 4 miles wide, passing Ettrick Bay, which boasts a mile of golden sand. We also see Scalpsie Bay, which is home to over 200 seals.

We end the tour at what is possibly the most flamboyant great house in the UK - Mount Stuart. Time to stroll the labyrinth of rooms as well as taking in the fine scenery from the well laid out and expansive gardens which cover over 300 acres.

Return home.