Ayrshire is a stunning part of Scotland, running along the southwestern coastline from Skelmorlie, to Ballantrae, near Loch Ryan. Lined with scoops of soft-sand bays, secluded coves and fishing harbours, the whole of the coastline has magical views of the Firth of Clyde and the atmospheric looking Isle of Arran in the distance. Aryshire’s interior is no less picturesque: rolling, wind-ruffled hills meet fertile plains dotted with the oft stark ruins of castles, and around 50 golf courses. The best places to stay in Ayrshire are a very mixed collection, ranging from grand country house conversions, through less grand country house conversions, lodge conversions, golf resorts, and some family-friendly bucket-and-spade holiday gems.
As well as being known for its golf courses — the Royal Troon Golf Club is a regular on the Open Championship circuit — and for its spectacular coastline, Ayrshire is also known for its produce, and some of areas in Ayrshire are worth including on any foodie's map of Scotland. Try the surf, and turf, and the sheep, pigs and potatoes grown in seaweed-based fertiliser. You'll discover local produce in the fabulous old pubs, cafes and tea rooms, as well as in the fancier restaurants and hotels.
Excellent food is always a key element in a walking holiday too, and some of the best places to stay in Ayrshire would be well suited to walkers. The whole region is run-through with paths, across windswept headlands and past crumbling castles. Not all of Ayrshire’s castles are crumbling though, many lowland clans have kept theirs in good shape; we recommend checking out 13th century Turnberry Castle — which may be the birthplace of Robert the Bruce, and Culzean Castle, an elegant 18th century castle that once housed the Kennedy clan. The real highlight of any history fan’s explorations will be Robbie Burns, who was a local lad, and wrote many poems about Aryshire’s landscape. And finally, if you've got the time, don’t forget to take a trip to Arran — ferries leave from Ardrossan.