Walking & Hiking
Coastal paths and wildlife in Scotland
Discover the beauty of the Ayrshire Coastal Path and Galloway Forest Park

A natural unspoilt environment
Ayrshire is spectacular walking country, with terrain to suit all levels of energy and commitment. Here are two we recommend.
Ayrshire Coastal Path
The Ayrshire Coastal Path runs for 100 miles from Glenapp Kirk northwards to Skelmorlie and offers the chance to immerse yourself in the ever changing seascapes and Scottish wildlife.
Seals basking on inshore rocks are a common sight. With luck you may also spot a porpoise or otter. Birdlife ranges from common species such as cormorant, curlew, gannet, guillemot, oystercatcher, razorbill, redshank, shag, and terns to rare species like the great northern diver, red-throated diver, and the red-necked grebe.
From Glenapp to Ayr, the Ayshire Coastal Path follows wild cliff-top tracks, old turnpike roads, rough sandy beaches, historical castle ruins, and small fishing villages. It also features the Open Championship golf course at Turnberry. From Ayr northwards, the walk is much gentler along sandy beaches past Prestwick - the birthplace of Open championship golf - and its successor, Royal Troon.
Galloway Forest Park
Known affectionately as the "highlands of the lowlands", the Galloway Forest Park offers an endless assortment of things to see and do to suit everyone in some of the most breathtaking scenery Scotlandhas to offer.
Three hundred square miles of wild beauty are waiting to be explored here in Britain's largest forest park. Stretching from seashore to mountaintops, The Galloway Forest Park has an outstanding variety of wildlife. Red and Roe Deer thrive in this woodland park while mighty birds of prey patrol the skies.
Let us know if you are interested in spending some of your time at Glenapp Castle walking the Ayrshire countryside so we can direct you to the best routes and provide essential supplies for lunch.
Home to Glenapp
After a wonderful day of fresh air, exercise, and inspiration, head back to Glenapp to experience the most exquisite cuisine
Spa
Pamper yourself in the luxurious surroundings of Pebbles Spa - just seven minutes from Glenapp Castle
Relax in our local spaExplore by boat
Explore this stunning and sometimes remote world with the Glenapp Castle boat
Explore AyrshirePlaces to visit
Enjoy South West Scotland and the wide variety of places to visit.
Things to see