Lochranza to Dumfries

With the intention of trying to get back home the same day, a 6 am start allowed, in traffic-free conditions, a slow ascent of the 200 m hill out of Lochranza with zig-zagging to lessen the slope in places. The timing was good for the use of Wooleys Bakery in Brodick but the early ferry precluded a visit to Arran Active. The new ferry was impressive.

Route 7 from Troon to Ayr has many twists and turns and it is easy to miss a signpost, but over the years the route has become familiar. Out of Ayr my arrival at the birthplace of Burns was unplanned and did add some distance with the benefit of exploring new areas. The time of arrival at The Hollybush Inn was perfect for lunch.

On my request of water to accompany the food, the arrival of a whole pint with slices of both lemon and lime was a most promising start. Freshly made soup of the day (lentil) was served with warm freshly baked bread and Lurpak butter and the “battered freshly landed haddock fillet” served with tartare sauce, seasoned fries and garden peas was ample and delicious. All this while looking out over the countryside!
A chap on the next table, on seeing the size of his portion, uttered, “Oh my god”!

It was not until I was leaving that I noticed the acclaim that the inn had earned last year. It received the “East Ayrshire’s Best Bar” award at the National Pub and Bar Awards and was also a finalist in the “Best Dining Experience” category at the Scottish Hospitality Awards. 

Stopping for a sit-down meal not only ensures the consumption of enough food but also allows sufficient rest to be thoroughly refreshed. All felt fine until the long climb up the hill before Moniaive, when tiredness was becoming apparent as a slight light-headedness. Coffee and food from the grocers at Moniaive did the trick, and it was satisfying to manage the 19 miles from Moniave to Dumfries without a stop. Statistics for the day were: 83 miles, 3780 feet of ascent and 2075 active calories.

Back home, passwords became available and it was possible to use the iPhone to update this website.