The Smugglers' Trail

The day dawned very warm and sunny!

We left EK quite early (for us) and headed to Ayrshire as we were to recce a walk for the club.  Started with coffee (as you do) at Dundonald Castle Visitor Centre, and then walked the Smugglers' Way, a historical trail from years gone by.  Dundonald Wood is a beautiful woodland, with a very undulating pathway through it, and it was nice to be in dappled light and shade as it was hot.  Some stunning views over the Firth of Clyde, and walking on to the village of Loans. Before the village we passed Collennan Reservoir which was a source of water for Troon, although it has now been replaced and is used by the Troon Fishing Club.

 After the village we headed through Fullarton Woods to Fullarton House, and past the ruined Crosbie Kirk towards the Royal Troon Golf Course the the Wrack Road.

From there we headed towards the sea, and finished the walk at the Marine Hotel, where refreshments were very much appreciated.  We had walked 7 miles all told, and this is the most I have walked since my hip replacement so I was well pleased.  

To get back to the car we took a taxi, and we had a very chatty driver, who told us we lived in the best wee country in the world..... and he was an Irishman!!!!  He stopped on the way to show us a beautiful view out to sea and towards the Isle of Arran, and he was enjoying himself so much we didn't like to tell him we know the area well.

Home a quick dinner, and I am pleased I feel fine!!!!

Apologies for another collage, but as you know I have difficulty deciding......

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